Questions & answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything pet parents ask about daycare, boarding, the bus, and getting started — answered plainly. Don't see yours? Email hello@pennyandpals.com and a real member of our family will answer.
What vaccines does my dog need?
Dogs must be current on Rabies, DHPP (Distemper/Parvo), and Bordetella. We verify records before the first visit — email them to hello@pennyandpals.com.
Is there a temperament test?
Yes — and it's free. Every new pup starts with a meet-and-greet day so we can match them to the right playgroup by temperament and energy, not just size.
How many dogs are in a playgroup?
Eight to ten dogs, grouped by temperament and energy — small enough that every dog is known by name and watched all day by the same handler.
Are the dogs supervised all day?
Always. Each playgroup keeps the same handler through the day, through meadow sessions, enrichment, and quiet-room rest.
Can I watch my dog during the day?
Yes. Daycare and boarding families get live webcam access, plus a photo report card at every visit covering mood, play, and nap time.
What's included in boarding?
The Country Break ($62/night) includes all-day daycare every day, a private cozy suite, an evening wind-down walk and tuck-in, daily photo & video updates, and fresh-air mornings.
Do you offer grooming?
We keep it simple and stress-free: fresh dog washes (bath & brush) and nail trims at our walk-in wash stations, added to any day or stay. We don't offer haircuts or styling.
Where are you located?
We're at 2279 Dalke Ridge Dr NW, Salem, OR 97304 — in the West Salem countryside, minutes from downtown Salem and Keizer. We serve Salem, Keizer, and the surrounding Willamette Valley.
My dog is shy. Will they be okay?
Shy pups are welcome. We offer solo enrichment sessions and slow introductions — group play happens at your dog's pace, never forced.
How much does daycare cost?
A full day is $38 at our founding rate; a 10-day pack saves 15%. See the pricing page for every rate — there are no hidden fees.
Does my dog need to be spayed or neutered?
Yes, over 7 months, for group play. Puppies are welcome once their vaccine series is complete.
What are your hours?
Monday–Friday 6:30am–6:30pm, with weekend boarding drop-off and pick-up windows. The bus starts its morning route at 7:30am.
How does the pick-up and drop-off bus work?
Choose pick-up when you book and the Penny & Pals bus collects your pup on the morning route through Salem and Keizer, then brings them home at day's end.
What should I bring on the first day?
Your dog on a leash and their vaccine records if not already emailed. For boarding, bring their food and something that smells like home.
Do you board over holidays?
Yes — holiday and long-stay rates are available, and holidays book out first, so reserve early.
What is the founding-family waitlist?
Joining the waitlist before we open gets you first pick of enrollment spots, founding rates locked for your first year, and an invite to our opening sniff-around day.