Frequently Asked Questions

More Than a 30-Minute Walk
Being stuck inside all day can leave dogs bored and restless. Even with a backyard, they may not run without encouragement—and a single walk isn’t enough to burn off energy.

At Best Friends Fur Ever daycare, your dog plays with friends, enjoys fetch, and stays active all day, boosting health and happiness. We also reinforce good manners so they listen better at home.

Dogs who love pack play thrive in our social group setting, where we focus on safe, balanced, and positive interactions.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Temperament Testing: Certified handlers evaluate every dog for safe playgroup placement.
• Fresh Air Play: Balanced with rest periods to prevent overstimulation.
• Confidence Building: Supervised play helps dogs build social skills, stay active, and burn energy.

We Use A Rotational-Play Model

In our group daycare and overnight services, dogs follow a structured routine that balances active play with essential rest periods. Engaging in play sessions allows them to burn off excess energy, engage in positive social interactions, and maintain a healthy level of physical activity. Equally important, designated rest periods help prevent overstimulation, support muscle recovery, and reduce stress. This carefully designed balance promotes both physical and mental well-being, ensuring that dogs remain happy, healthy, and well-adjusted.

Our approach is supported by leading veterinarians who emphasize the importance of structured activity and rest for canine health. Research-backed insights show that alternating play and downtime helps regulate stress levels, prevents exhaustion, and supports long-term behavioral and physical wellness. By implementing this science-based approach, we provide an environment that nurtures each dog’s overall health and happiness.

Dog Daycare Daily Schedule

• 6:15 AM – 8:45 AM Drop Off (Weekday)
• 7 AM – 8:45 AM Drop Off (Weekend)
• 9 AM – 11:50 AM Morning Play and Rest Rotation
• 12 PM – 1 PM Mid-day snack, nap time, lunch (optional)
• 1 PM – 4:50 PM Afternoon Play and Rest Rotation
• 5 PM – 6:30 PM Pick up by owners

Not every dog loves large group play—and that’s okay! We’ve invested in our resorts for the health and wellness of our individual players. Play My Way is designed for dogs who thrive with a more personalized approach. Whether your pup prefers solo enrichment, selective socialization, is unaltered, or simply a quieter day, we build a plan that works for them.

Tailored Play, Tailored Care:

• One-on-One Play: Dedicated handler time for dogs who prefer human attention over group play.
• Outdoor Lodging: Regardless of your dog’s playstyle, they deserve time outdoors too.
• Fungility & Brain Games: Mental stimulation through obstacle courses, enrichment puzzles, and fun challenges.
• Rest & Relaxation: Plenty of breaks for dogs who need time to decompress or simply enjoy a slower-paced day.
• Small-Group Enrichment: Carefully curated groups for selective dogs or those easing into social settings.

We’ve recently made upgrades to our Cockeysville resort, which now offers an elevated experience unlike anywhere else locally. Our spacious outdoor lodging safely accommodates socially selective dogs, so that they can enjoy more time outside. For dogs who prefer indoor relaxation, our new indoor lodging provide a cozy and safe space to snooze while their owners are away.

5:00 – 5:30 AM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 1

5:30 – 6:00 AM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 2

6:00 – 6:30 AM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 3

6:30 – 6:45 AM                   Breakfast

8:30 – 9:30 AM                   Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 1

9:30 –10:30 AM                 Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 2

10:30 – 11:30 AM             Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 3

11:30 AM–12:00 PM       Enrichment

12:00 – 12:50 PM              Naptime (Lunch Optional)

1:10 – 2:10 PM                   Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 1

2:10 – 3:10 PM                   Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 2

3:10 – 4:10 PM                   Outdoor Enrichment Rotation Pack 3

4:15 – 5:00 PM                   Enrichment

5:00 – 5:30 PM                   Dinner

6:00 – 7:00 PM                   Naptime

7:00 – 7:30 PM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 1

7:30 – 8:00 PM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 2

8:00 – 8:30 PM                   Outdoor Relief Rotation Pack 3

ACC is tailored for senior dogs, differently abled dogs, dogs with medical conditions, or those who simply need more hands-on care. Traditional daycare or boarding may not suit every dog—especially those requiring a gentler pace, medication management, or extra supervision. ACC provides a calm, detail-driven experience focused on comfort and well-being.

Specialized Spaces for Relaxation & Recovery

Designed with older dogs, post-surgical dogs, and those with mobility challenges, our ACC area offers:

• Ramps for easy outdoor access
• Plush bedding for cozy rest
• Low-impact exercise spaces
• One-on-one Attention from 24/7 staf
• Zoundz Music for Pets—clinically proven calming soundscapes
• Spacious, crate-free areas designed for stress-free movement and relaxation

One-on-One Personalized Care

• A dedicated full-time attendant monitors your dog throughout their stay.
• We follow home routines and vet-prescribed care plans, including medication and special diets.
• Insulin administration and complex medication routines are seamlessly integrated.

Breakaway Collars Required

For the safety of all our guests, we require dogs to wear breakaway collars during their stay. These collars are designed to release if a dog accidentally gets caught on another pup or an object—most commonly, when a tooth or paw becomes stuck on a playmate’s collar. This feature greatly reduces the risk of injury.

Important: Breakaway collars are not intended for leash use. Please bring your dog into the resort on a standard collar and leash.

Returning Visits: After your dog’s first visit, a breakaway collar (our uniform) is required for all future reservations. These are available for purchase at the front desk for $15.90.

If you did not bring food for your dog, we will supply Beaver Dam Skipper’s Choice kibble for the selected meals at $2.00 per meal.

When choosing a dog care facility, there are several key factors to consider to ensure your pup is safe, comfortable, and well cared for. At our facility, animal welfare is our top priority, and we’re committed to supporting both pets and the people who care for them. We are proudly PackPro certified, which means we meet the highest standards in dog care, safety, and behavior management. Our team is made up of dog care specialists who not only prevent bad habits, but actively teach good ones. This isn’t just a job to us—it’s our full-time calling.

Every team member completes an intensive, multi-day educational course and hands-on field training alongside senior leadership, ensuring they are highly qualified dog handlers. To stay at the forefront of industry standards, our team meets twice a month with a board-certified veterinarian to deepen our expertise in areas like disease prevention, safety, enrichment, nutrition, and rehabilitative care. This dedication is reflected in our programs, which proudly carry the Healthy Pet-Keeping Seal—a recognition awarded by a veterinarian for our science-based approach to health and well-being.

We’ve designed our Daily and Overnight Programs with flexibility and personalization in mind, because no two dogs are the same. Each pup receives a thoughtful balance of play, rest, and one-on-one attention tailored to their unique needs. Our state-of-the-art resorts span 10,000 to 20,000 square feet, with expansive indoor and outdoor play areas, climate-controlled comfort, backup generators for uninterrupted care, and custom-built pet suites for restful stays—far exceeding industry standards.

In addition to the environment and qualifications, a great facility should maintain cleanliness, security, and transparency. Ours is thoroughly sanitized, safely enclosed, and built with dogs in mind. We require up-to-date vaccinations, and every new guest goes through a thoughtful evaluation process to ensure a good fit for group play—based on temperament, not just size. Communication is at the heart of what we do. We provide regular updates about your dog’s behavior, health, and daily activities through report cards, photos, or personal check-ins.

From safety and structure to enrichment and expert care, everything we do is designed to give your dog the best experience possible—and give you peace of mind.

Yes. Our resorts have 24-hour on-site staff with around the clock care 365 days a year.

Our Overnight Manager keeps a watchful eye on all our guests and on-site staff are always available for any dogs with special needs during their sleepover.

Premium members enjoy flexible drop-off and pick-up options with no penalties. 

A Touch of Home for Overnight Stays
For pet parents who know their dog deserves an upgraded stay, our Lux Suites offer a quiet, private retreat. These premium suites are perfect for dogs who need a little more relaxation during their overnight stay with us.

Exclusive Amenities:

• Single-dog or sibling suites
• Secure window view
• TV for entertainment
• 24/7 camera access so pet parents can check in at anytime

It’s the next best thing to home—maybe even better.

Available exclusively at our Cockeysville location.

We offer breakfast, dinner, and lunch (by request) for all overnight guests.

Our nutritious, tasty, high-quality chicken and rice-based meals are from Beaverdam and Verus Pet Foods. Beaverdam and Verus Pet Foods contain no by-products, corn, wheat or gluten, artificial colors, or flavors.

We can also accommodate any special dietary needs, too! You are welcome to bring your preferred dog food from home. If you choose to bring your own food, please provide individual baggies or containers separated out per meal. Due to limited storage space, we cannot accept full bags/boxes of kibble or other types of food.

Yes. We offer a variety of one-on-one sessions and enrichment activities designed to keep your dog engaged, active and mentally sharp during their stay.

For a small fee, you can schedule multiple one-on-one and enrichment sessions for your dog during their stay.

One-on-one sessions include:

• Treadmill
• Tug-o-war
• Snuggle time
• Walk/Field time
• Catch
• Belly rubs

Enrichment sessions include:

• Puzzle
• Snuffle mat/ball
• Lick mat
• Kong treat
• Treat maze

The All Pet Credit program allows your pets to get the care they need, when they need it, while freeing you to pay over time.

There is no interest if paid in full within 6 months on purchases of $250 or more.

Our facilities are climate-controlled at 72° F year-round, and all dogs are provided with a thick, cozy blanket to ensure a wonderful night’s sleep.

When storms are in the area, we shift to indoor play for play rotations. Sounds or other comforting music is played in throughout the resort to calm dogs during what can be as stressful time for some, and we have backup generators so that our guests’ comfort and routine are never impacted by weather.

Our 24-hour on-site staff is also there to provide comfort to your dog in the event of a storm.

Yes! At Best Friends FurEver, we proudly welcome dogs of all ages and needs — including puppies, seniors, and special needs dogs who require daily medication or special care.

Our trained staff is experienced in administering a wide range of medications, from pills and capsules to eye drops and topical treatments. We follow precise instructions provided by you and your veterinarian to ensure your dog’s health and comfort during their stay.

💡 Please Note:

• Medications must be clearly labeled with your dog’s name, dosage, and schedule.

• Bring written instructions if there are any special steps or timing needs.

• For safety, do not pre-stuff capsules in pill pockets or cheese — bring those items separately so we can administer them properly.

We’re committed to creating a calm, structured, and nurturing environment for every dog, no matter their age or ability. If your pup has unique medical or behavioral needs, let us know in advance — we’re happy to accommodate.

To ensure your pup gets their medication safely and consistently during their stay, we ask that you follow these guidelines when preparing meds for intake:

✅ Please Do:

• Bring medications in their original containers whenever possible.

• Label all items clearly with your dog’s name, dosage, and administration schedule (AM, PM, with food, etc.).

• If using over-the-counter aids like pill pockets or cheese, keep them separate from the medication itself.

🚫 Please Avoid:

• Do not pre-stuff capsules or tablets inside pill pockets, cheese, or other treats.

  • Why? Medications — especially gel capsules — can dissolve or break down when left inside moist treats, which can affect dosage accuracy and effectiveness.

📝 Pro Tip:
If your dog takes medication with a specific food or treat, feel free to pack those items separately and let our team know your preferred method. We’re happy to administer meds exactly how your pup likes them — as long as we can keep things safe and stable!

Breeds like Poodles, Bichon Frises and Maltese can experience tear duct obstruction or have abnormal eyelid structure. Because of this, tears spill out onto the fur along the side of the nose. Plus, hairs and other irritants rubbing against the eye can increase tear production. Moisture on the fur of the dog’s face fosters the growth of bacteria and can cause rusty stains to appear. If the dog is white, those stains are even more obvious. At Best Friends Fur Ever, we use gentle shampoos and products to remove the stains and reveal your dog’s beautiful fur. Regular grooming with us will dramatically help, however, you should talk to your veterinarian if this is a recurring problem with your dog.

Your pup may be anxious at the groomer’s because he’s not used to being handled in sensitive areas like the muzzle, eyes, ears, paws, tail and groin. To help ease the stress of being groomed, you can say a cue like “ears” when you touch his ears and then immediately giving him a treat or reward, so he associates being touched with a positive experience. At Best Friends Fur Ever, our professional groomers are patient and loving towards every dog we have the pleasure of grooming. Adding enrichment or daycare to a grooming reservation also associates a positive experience with grooming and therefore less anxiety.

Yes. Your dog can also receive a spa day at our grooming salon, so they return home looking and smelling great after a fun vacation at BFFE.

Premium Bath starts at $50.00, but the price varies based on size, coat condition & length, matting, temperament, etc. Premium bath includes nail trim and ear cleaning.

Add-on services (can be purchased with or without a bath, include):

• Healthy Skin & Coat Treatment** (added onto a premium bath only)
  $15.00 and up
• Shed Control Treatment** (added onto a premium bath only)
  $15.00 and up
• Nail Filing (note: filing makes nails more smooth and rounded)
  $20.00 (or $8.00 w/ a premium bath)
• Fresh Breath Treatment – $8.00
• Brush Out – $15.00
• Ear Cleaning – $15.00

It’s important to get young puppies acquainted with the grooming process to ensure they become comfortable with it at an early age. If you have a puppy under five months old, our Puppy Package is for you! This package includes a bath, blow dry, brush out, nail trim, ear cleaning, and a light trim (face, paws, sanitary trim) if needed.

Just as human colds may be caused by many different viruses, canine cough itself can have multiple causes. One of the most common culprits is a bacterium called Bordetella bronchiseptica – which is why canine cough is often called Bordetella. Most dogs that become infected with Bordetella are infected with a virus at the same time. These viruses, which are known to make dogs more susceptible to contracting Bordetella infection, include canine adenovirus, canine distemper virus, canine herpes virus, parainfluenza virus and canine reovirus. Dogs “catch” canine cough when they inhale bacteria or virus particles into their respiratory tract. This tract is normally lined with a coating of mucus that traps infectious particles, but there are a number of factors that can weaken this protection and make dogs prone to canine cough infection, which results in inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and trachea (windpipe).

At BFFE, safety is our number one priority. We actively work to prevent any scuffles by having our highly trained handlers thoroughly vet all dogs and sort them into play groups based on their size, temperament, age, and special needs every day.

Our rotational play groups are organized into shifts to eliminate overstimulation and ensure that all dogs have time to decompress in between group play throughout the day.

Our handlers are experts in dog behavior and are required to report via walkie talkie any behavior that may be disrupting the harmony of group play and require de-escalation.

Despite our team’s prevention methods and vigilance, sometimes scuffles are inevitable – think two kids having a loud, verbal disagreement.

Our first step is to quickly control and separate the disagreeing dogs with a slip lead leash and check for injuries. The second step is to calm the dogs by having them follow a series of obedience commands. Our staff may choose to separate a dog, removing them from the group play rotation, or put them in one-on-one care for the remainder of the day. If your dog is involved in an incident, you will be notified, and a behavior report will be sent.

As partners in your dog’s care, we believe that communication and transparency are key to ensuring the safety of all dogs and team members, while having fun and enjoying social play.

Our resorts offer PetAirapy Air purification systems, exclusively designed to help protect against airborne germs and allergens. PetAirapy safely cleans the air without using harsh chemicals to help protect against contagious diseases such as Canine Influenza.

Additionally, our onsite staff disinfects shared and personal areas at least twice a day using pet safe cleaning supplies.

It is important to address stress colitis, or any type of diarrhea or vomiting, quickly and before it has time to escalate to more severe issues.

In the event of stress colitis – diarrhea two times or more – BFFE offers guests FullBucket Probiotic Paste to ease symptoms with a signature from the pet parent.

BFFE has a strict Contagious Illness Policy. If a dog appears to be sick with a contagious illness, they will be isolated, and you will be contacted to pick them up to continue care at home.

They cannot return to Best Friends Fur Ever until they have been examined by a licensed veterinarian and deemed to not be contagious to other dogs.

Best Friends fur Ever’s Pet Care Agreement asks for pet parents to provide one or more emergency contacts in the area that are authorized to pick up and
keep your pet, as well as make decisions for your pet should you not be able to be reached or are unable to pick up.

Best Friends Fur Ever is proud to partner with nationally recognized veterinary specialist Dr. Jen Chatfield on implementing her acclaimed Healthy Pet-keeping Seal program into our facilities.

Earning the Healthy Pet-keeping Seal means that a board-certified vet has reviewed our procedures and protocols to ensure they demonstrate a science-based approach to safeguarding the health of every pet in our care.

Learn more, here: https://www.bestfriendsfurever.com/dr-jen/

Not every dog needs probiotics, but they can benefit from the supplement. If your dog is facing some stomach issues like constant diarrhea or constipation, then your vet may recommend a higher dosage of the supplement. Keep in mind that giving your dog probiotics will not truly correct the issue.