Frequently asked questions

What is family style lodging?

Family-style lodging means your dog is integrated into our home as a part of our family. Your canine will take part in our daily living with free roam access throughout our home and supervised time outdoors.

What should I bring?

It is extremely important that you provide your dog’s regular food and any required medications for the duration of their stay. When determining how much food to pack, we recommend bringing enough for your scheduled visit, plus an additional two days’ supply. This helps ensure your dog has adequate food available should an unexpected circumstance delay your return or scheduled pick-up. If your dog requires a specialty feeding bowl, such as a slow feeder or puzzle bowl, please bring it along.

Detailed written instructions are always appreciated and help us provide the most consistent and individualized care possible. Please include information regarding your dog’s feeding schedule, medication instructions, typical daily routine, behaviors, preferences, and any other details that may help us maintain a routine as familiar as possible during their stay.

Your dog should also arrive with their own properly fitted collar, leash, and familiar lead. It is not typically suggested to bring any additional personal items such as bedding, toys, or blankets since they may be placed in a communal environment where other dogs would have access to them.

For your dog’s stay, please provide current emergency contact information. Emergency contacts should be individuals who are aware they have been designated and understand the decisions and level of authorization you would grant them should an emergency arise while you are unavailable.

Is there a check in or check out time?

For the safety and tranquility of our canine guests, family, and home, every daycare or overnight reservation requires a designated appointment time for drop off and pick up. Appointment times are typically scheduled between the hours of 7am - 7pm seven days a week.

Dogs that are reserved for overnight stays can arrive during any scheduled time on the day of arrival for the $57 rate. On the day of departure, should the dog be scheduled for pick up by 1pm, there is no additional day charge for the day of pick up. Should the dog be scheduled for pick up after 1pm, the daycare rate of $35 will apply for the day of pick up. Any dog with special arrangements for pick up after 7pm will be charged as another overnight rate.

What are your business hours?

Because Desert Canyon Pet Lodge is also our family home, we operate by appointment only. This allows us to maintain a calm, comfortable home environment for both our family and the canine guests in our care. Scheduled appointments also ensure that a member of our family is available to personally greet you and give you the time and attention you deserve. Appointment times are arranged between the hours of 7am - 7pm any day of the week.

Where are you located?

We are located on the southeast side of Tucson in the Groves Lincoln Park neighborhood near Irvington and Pantano. We have wonderful neighbors and a great community. Our convenient location also provides easy access to the freeway and approximately 20 minutes travel to Tucson International Airport.

What accommodations are included in my dogs visit?

During the day, your dog will enjoy access to our spacious living room, complete with comfortable couches and relaxing areas designed to help them feel at home. Depending on the group's dynamics and individual needs, we offer toys, social interaction, and supervised outdoor activities throughout the day.

Standard food and water bowls are provided, along with treats when appropriate. Throughout your dog’s visit, we will send regular updates to help keep you informed about how they are adjusting, interacting, and enjoying their stay.

At the end of the day, your dog will settle in for a comfortable night's rest with accommodations tailored to their individual preferences. We provide cozy beds, blankets, mats, and pillows to create a warm and relaxing sleeping space. Crates are also available for dogs who feel more secure and comfortable sleeping in their own cozy, den-like space.

Do you offer transportation?

Although we are considering this option in the future, we do not offer transportation services at this time.

What recommendations do you have to help prepare for my dogs overnight visit?

The good news is that your dog has already taken the first important step by successfully completing a positive introduction to our home environment during their Meet & Greet evaluation!

Before your dog’s overnight stay, we recommend scheduling a few daycare visits whenever possible. These shorter sessions allow your canine companion to become more familiar with our home, daily routine, family, and social group before transitioning to an overnight stay.

Gradually introducing your dog to the environment can help build comfort, confidence, and familiarity. Just as importantly, that you will always return for them.

By easing into the transition through daycare visits, we can help make your dog’s overnight experience feel less unfamiliar and more like returning to a place they already know and trust.

Do you take care of cats?

Although we are unable to take any cat reservations at this time, plans are currently in the works to build wonderful cat enclosures.

We believe transparency builds trust. Find answers to any inquiry you may have to ensure this is the perfect environment for your canine companion. Don't see what you need? We welcome your call!