Twelve years ago, DeeAnna Osborne stepped into the world of doggie daycare and never looked back. In 2020, she took her passion to the next level and became owner of The Barking Lot, a locally owned and family operated dog daycare, boarding, grooming, and training facility. “I absolutely love all things dogs,” DeeAnna says. “I am passionate about what I do, and I'm blessed to get to be with the dogs and do what I get to do every single day.”
Based on her years of experience, DeeAnna has developed tips to help pet parents ensure their dogs have the best experiences possible at The Barking Lot.
For Daycare:
Dogs are most comfortable and enjoy daycare play time when they attend regularly and consistently. When dogs are familiar with the facility, other dogs, and the staff, such as morning manager Ashley and evening manager Camille, their level of stress is lower, and it is a more enjoyable experience for everyone. The Barking Lot provides everything needed for a fun day and no appointment or reservation is necessary, but pet parents can pack a lunch for their pup if that is part of its daily routine.
For Boarding:
Successful boarding stays begin with a few visits to daycare ahead of time to allow the dog to get to know the staff and become familiar with other dogs. Although the Barking Lot provides comfy bed and bowls, sending a few comforts of home, like a blanket or something with familiar smells on it, will help dogs acclimate more easily. Since it is best to keep dogs on their normal diet, pack more than enough food for the entire stay. Lastly, double check travel schedules to ensure you have firm reservation dates and schedule a grooming session right before pick-up so that your dog is fresh and clean for the journey home.
For Grooming:
The best grooming sessions begin with a well-exercised and tired dog, so plan a fun walk or outing before drop-off. Resident groomer Gloria resonates with gentleness and kindness, ensuring dogs are calm and happy when they head home as well. It is also helpful to avoid feedings right before the appointment. Since the Barking Lot’s dog bather, Raun, specializes in using dog safe hair dye, opting for a colorful canine and choosing a color palette for your pup ahead of time makes the visit’s results more fun. To keep dogs fresh and looking great, keep them dry and avoid mud. Also, before you leave, schedule the next appointment as grooming slots fill up quickly!
For Training:
Beginning as early as 4 months old, puppies can start training classes to help address behaviors such as jumping on people and leash reactiveness. When dogs learn basic manners, the whole family benefits, and it makes having a dog a more enjoyable experience for everyone. Training classes usually last 6 weeks and can be customized to address the needs of each family and dog. For example, dogs can be trained to safely enjoy the water in preparation to be a paddleboard companion or to ring a bell when they need to go outside.
Dogs who struggle to have good behavior in groups benefit from settings like the Barking Lot where training can take place with other dogs present. Keys to effective long-term behavior modification include consistency with commands and follow through, but if both the dog and the pet parent need a refresher course, those are available as well.
For more information on ensuring a great experience for your dog, visit thebarkinglot-arvada.com, call 303-420-5388, and follow @arvadabarkinglot on Facebook. The Barking Lot is located at 5890 Lamar Street in Arvada.
“I am passionate about what I do, and I'm blessed to get to be with the dogs and do what I get to do every single day.”