Other Questions
Q: How long have you been boarding dogs?
A: We began hosting people's pets in the spring of 2002. Today, we specialize in full-service homestays exclusively for dogs.
We are dog people. We grew up with dogs, have owned dogs, and received professional training from some highly-skilled specialists, which gives us a very solid network of professionals we can call on. Most importantly, we love dogs and dogs react well to that love.
Q: Have you ever had a bad experience?
A: Fortunately, things have gone well for us. We go to great lengths to provide a safe and secure environment. We prepare for the best as well as the worst, and try to predict as much as we can in advance.
Q: Why do you so strongly advocate pet insurance?
A: We believe that insurance coverage with the right carrier allows the largest number of people to provide the highest level of medical care for their dogs. For around sixty dollars per month plus a relatively small yearly deductible, your dog gets protection that can cover the costs of emergency care and long-term illness that can easily soar into tens of thousands of dollars. Also, given that the norm today is to pay for emergency services in full prior to the procedure, unless one is a high-net-worth individual, an on-the-spot payment for a specialized surgical operation of five to ten thousand dollars without the ability to fund a large balance on a credit card is seldom realizable. In such cases, owners can be left with often unplanned and unpleasant choices.
Our carriers of choice are Healthy Paws Pet Insurance and Lemonade (both require a 15-day+ waiting period).
Q: Will you dog-sit at our home?
A: It is something we have done in the past and would consider under the right circumstances.
Q: What does "brainwork" mean?
A: Brainwork consists of activities (games, behavioral training, applied sports) carried out separately or in series that are used to mentally stimulate and develop your dog's mental faculties. As a rule, dogs love them! We find that regular sessions create balance and lead to a happier and healthier dog.
Q: What does "scent work" mean?
A: Scent work is a highly engaging activity that allows a dog to use one of their strongest senses. It activates the brain, and is one of the best approaches, we feel, to direct the energies of a hyperactive dog. It also bolsters trust between a handler and their companion.
Q: What toys do you recommend for dogs?
A: Toys that are safe both in terms of construction and toxicity. Check out our own line of all-natural, 100% organic dog toys: MyWildWoollies.com.
Q: What are your thoughts on neutering?
A: Research has shown that dogs' reproductive systems play an important role both in their early development as well as in the natural function of their endocrine system (denoting glands which secrete hormones or other products directly into the blood).
We would choose not to neuter a dog unless presented with special circumstances (ovarian cancer, a retained testicle, other). In cases where an owner has determined that neutering is necessary, we recommend that the procedure not take place before the dog's second birthday. If before, hormone replacement is highly recommended. Click here for more detailed information.
Q: Do you have any concerns with vaccination?
A: In general, we feel that there is a tendency by dog owners to over-vaccinate. Also, avoid all mRNA vaccines.
When vaccinations are given, we highly recommend titer testing, a laboratory analysis that measures the level of antibodies in the blood, as well as the existence of bacteria or disease. It is used to determine if a dog is immune to a virus or whether they require vaccination for protection—there may be no need to further vaccinate if the previous vaccination is still active. Essentially, titer testing helps reduce the risk of over-vaccination.
Q: Do you recommend any supplements?
A: Supplements target a known nutritional gap or address a specific condition. One supplement we encourage dog owners to explore is kelp. It is highly effective in battling plague and promoting gum health. It is high in iodine, but normally safe when used in moderate doses. Starwest Botanicals Organic Kelp Powder is our favorite.
Q: What do you feel is the best diet for a dog?
A: Diet is a subject of much research and speculation. Revenues from the global pet food market surpassed $158.42B in 2025 (Statista). Owners often look for the most convenient and cost-effective forms of dog food at their disposal. Options are almost endless. In short, there are a lot of hands in the food locker each driven by a diverse set of interests. Oftentimes, what the dog wants or can benefit from most is low on the list.
Dogs' requirements can vary greatly based on age, level of activity, breed as well as other special conditions. Owners should strive to find a form of nourishment high in meat-based protein that best satisfies those needs while fitting the purchase within the family's budget. Food content and quality should be the primary focus. First, there is what the food actually consists of (i.e., fillers, "by products", organ parts). Second, how is it prepared (kibble, canned, air-dried, freeze-dried, raw, other)? Third, there is the addition of preservatives, colorings, chemicals, GMOs, as well as other potentially toxic substances that must be considered. This includes minerals and vitamins in synthetic form that are not bio-available to the dog.
We prefer raw diets that include all parts of the animal. We would never serve foodstuffs that are not naturally raised, i.e., injected with hormones, or give food that is genetically modified or contains synthetic additives. Also, fish must be wild caught and not farmed. Generally, it should be frozen before consumption. Stay away from canned food. Dry dog food, i.e., kibble, is customarily cooked at high temperatures and should be avoided at almost any cost as it often contains excessive levels of carbohydrates and/or fats and plant-based proteins that do not supply the amino acids that dogs' bodies need.
If it is convenience you need, get air-dried food; if cost is an issue, then do what our ancestors did and prepare your own food for your dog (an option is to do one part raw, another part amaranth—this is far healthier than any kibble). Also, be sure to check brands—some of the largest dog food companies use “feed-grade” food that is sourced, in part, from dead and/or diseased animals. Human-grade foods are much more important than feed-grade or feed-grade organic. Lastly, it is important to rotate proteins (meat types) every few weeks. Don't forget the value of fresh, filtered water.
Lastly, run an allergy panel test on your dog the next time you see your vet. A comprehensive blood analysis will set you back about $400 (less expensive home tests are available, such as UCARI), but the expenditure will often turn up a surprising list of intolerances you will want to know about not only in your dog's indoor and outdoor environments, but also in their food—they may have a sensitivity to the type of protein you are currently feeding them. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe, and managing for your dog's sensitivities not only allows you to make more responsible choices for your companion where dietary options and environmental adjustments can be followed with confidence, but also to create just a happier and more comfortable everyday life for your dog.
Top Six Queries
Q: Why do people homestay their dog with you?
A: Our market segment consists of five main customer categories. First are people who want the best—the highest level of professional service and optimal life for their dog.
Second are owners who unconditionally love their dogs and want them somewhere a kennel's two biggest realities—confinement and problematic dogs—simply don't exist. Around-the-clock availability and the high number of one-on-one hours we provide is always important to this group.
Third are clients with dogs who have special needs (high activity demands, hyper-attachment, mobility limitations, training gaps) or a health condition requiring a full-time caregiver who can address the dog's physical or emotional challenges and can provide a safe environment the dog can easily settle into.
Fourth are professional dog people who have invested years of training into their dogs and cannot risk placing them in anything less than the most capable hands. They need confidence in and integrity from the people they entrust their dog to. A single stay with the wrong caregiver can undo that investment.
The fifth category consists of owners whose needs fall outside the standard, such as a requirement for quiet, low-stress accommodations; that only certain people handle their dog; that their dog be around only known, trusted dogs; access to a chemical- and toxic-free facility; or frequent updates and real-time communication during the stay.
Q: How much is a homestay and what is included?
A: The price is $250 per day per dog. We make available a wide range of recreational activities, hygienic services as well as obedience/behavioral training as part of our package. All amenities are provided at the owner's discretion and included as part of their homestay program price.
Q: How many dogs do you take at a time?
A: Bookings are limited to a single dog or a family of dogs from the same household.
Q: Do you accept all dogs?
A: We welcome all dogs regardless of breed, size, age, gender or neuter status. Dogs with severe medical conditions will also be considered. The one exception would be a dog who is violent and dangerous, and requires a severely restricted environment. Naturally, we strive for good 'chemistry' between us and our potential guests, which can be ascertained during a pre-homestay visit.
Q: How does your service compare to a kennel?
A: The kennel world is not often easy or safe. With us, your dog is not locked up in a restrictive space for the bulk of their stay. They are free to enjoy all the comforts of our home. Second, the chance of catching an infectious disease, i.e., kennel cough, or being bitten by another dog is appreciably reduced. Third, we are more accepting of dogs with special needs, medical conditions or limited vaccination. Fourth, your dog has the opportunity to be in constant contact with a watchful companion. Most dogs enjoy the opportunity of 'closeness,' particularly while being in a new and unfamiliar environment. Fifth, your dog will be engaged in a variety of fun and developmental activities during their stay that typically translates as five-plus hours of direct one-on-one interaction a day.
Q: How does your homestay compare to other pet-sitting services?
A: Observe your dog at the end of their stay. Are they happy, healthy, and self-realized? Would they come back to visit us? Second, take into account our rich 'program' of services that incorporates personal hygiene, training as well as one-on-one activities that normally span over five hours of personal contact with your dog per day. Another important consideration is that we only take one client at a time, so our degree of intimacy with your dog is very high. There are other factors to be mindful of including the quality of life at our home (location, quiet, cleanliness, and chemical-free standards both in the house and in the yard) as well as our high level of personal motivation and total commitment to your dog.
Booking
Q: How far in advance are reservations required?
A: We encourage our clients to reserve their homestay as early as possible. Given that arrangements are allowed only for a single dog (or family of dogs) at a time, we have no latitude in booking. A 50% deposit is required at the time of your reservation.
Q: What if I am out of town and not able to return on the scheduled date?
A: Call and update us with your new return date. Our only caveat is that if your dog's stay overlaps with another client's, this would require us to notify the other party. From there, the circumstances would be handled on a case-by-case basis resulting in the possibly of restricting shared resources for the remainder of your dog's stay or their practical relocation to another venue under our supervision.
Q: What if I need to board at the last minute?
A: If space is available, you're in!
Q: How do I book?
A: Please contact us via email (inquiry@HomestayForDogs.com). Alternatively, you can call or text us at 303-233-3869.
Facility Information
Q: Tell me about where my dog will be living.
A: We live in a 2,337 square foot home in the northwest region of Lakewood in the heart of Applewood Knolls. It's a wonderful part of town—quiet, safe, and away from busy streets. Residents are friendly, responsible, and caring. A wavy grid of streets offers a multitude of routes that make for interesting neighborhood walks.
The interior of the house is chemical free (no use of chemical cleaners), non-smoking, and temperature controlled with selected use of HEPA air filters. We run air quality checks twice a year. Carpeting is natural wool (artificial carpeting can be highly toxic). Our home is 'dog safe' and all areas are normally open to our guests who are allowed to roam freely. We have a comfortable, fully-fenced backyard that is treated only with organic, pesticide-free products.
Q: Is your yard fenced?
A: Our backyard is fully fenced. It is accessed from the house by two doors and from the street via two (padlocked) gates. Our vertical board wood fence is approximately six-feet high.
Logistics
Q: What do I bring?
A: Prescription medication, supplements, high-value treats, and food. We provide the rest.
Q: How can I stay in touch with my dog and know how she is doing?
A: We provide regular contact with our clients that includes a daily schedule of your dog's activities. We also welcome calls from caring and enthusiastic parents.
Q: How often will you contact us regarding our dog? May we contact you?
A: We reach out to our clients on a daily basis using a preestablished method of communication (text, email, phone call). We offer our clients the opportunity to choose both the method as well as frequency of communication that best fits their needs. Regular contact includes general updates on activities and engagement level, physical and emotional well-being as well as photos and short videos taken throughout the stay.
Please feel free to reach out to us at any time!
Q: What are your operating hours?
A: We are available 24/7 during the time of your dog's homestay.
Q: What do I do once I return home?
A: Call and notify us of your safe return. We know you will be excited to see your loved one and will arrange a pickup as soon as possible!
Q: Where are you located?
A: We reside in the city of Lakewood near the major cross streets of West 32nd Avenue and Kipling street.
Program and Services
Q: What is the Welcome Visit and why is it required?
A: Getting together prior to the actual homestay gives all of us a chance to meet each other, ask questions, and make sure we are a right fit for each other. It also gives your dog a chance to get to know us, our dog, and familiarize themself with our home prior to their visit making the homestay that follows more predictable and less stressful.
Q: Do you accept puppies?
A: Yes, we do.
Q: What if my dog has a special need?
A: We specialize in dogs with unique requirements that cannot be addressed by other professional boarding or pet-sitting services.
Q: Do you take dogs with medical conditions, such as epilepsy?
A: Yes. Having had a dog with an acute condition, we understand the difficulties that owners face both in managing a demanding condition as well as in securing a competent and caring set of hands to safeguard their loved one while away.
Q: What vaccinations do you require?
A: We understand that vaccination can be a highly individualized and complex decision to make for a dog given its medical history and local environment. We respect the owner's decision in this matter. Consequently, we don't mandate any vaccinations for your homestay.
It is worth noting, however, that Jefferson County Rules of Pet Ownership require that dogs be rabies vaccinated by a licensed practicing veterinarian, who will issue a Rabies Vaccination Certificate, as proof that the animal has a current rabies vaccine. Fulfilling this and other sanctioned stipulations is the responsibility of the dog owner.
Q: What types of everyday amenities do you provide?
A: We offer the highest quality stainless steel bowls for food and water, custom-made (our brand) organic wool and cotton bedding, top-grade toys, as well as best-in-class natural high-value treats.
Q: Where will my dog sleep?
A: Your dog may sleep where they are most comfortable. Many of our guests enjoy dozing near us—on a couch, on a provided bed or in an available crate, if preferred. We also offer all organic bedding and natural sheepskins depending on the wants of your dog.
Q: Where do you take dogs for nature outings?
A: We frequent a number of local parks as well as hiking trails in the lower foothills of the Rockies including parts of Conifer, Evergreen, and Genesee. We sometimes will take a dog on a ranch experience to a colleague's family farm in Parker.
Q: Why do you take your boarders on nature walks?
A: Dogs love the great outdoors. Lots of brainwork takes place in such a rich environment of sensory interaction. Nature is always changing with new grass growing, the shift in seasons, wildlife scents and, of course, the smell of other dogs. Nature walks provide a deep level of satisfaction for dogs of all types. Not only do dogs relish using their noses to explore, they also love to dig, play, chase, roll, and simply enjoy being part of that greater world. This is all very natural behavior to them, and this is a place where they can take delight in just being themselves.
Q: What type of grooming/hygiene services do you perform?
A: When a dog first arrives, we perform a diligent physical examination that includes body, tail, legs, paws, eyes, ears, and mouth. With your permission, we normally will bathe your pooch. Eyes and ears (not in the ear canal) will be inspected and cleaned. We will also trim nails and brush teeth as best as possible. Your dog will also be combed/brushed daily.
Q: Who will be taking care of my dog?
A: Your hosts: Les and Olga Culver. There is no part-time staff.
Q: How many people will be on premise?
A: Two as a rule. Your dog is regularly under supervision 24/7.
Q: Does your dog have a role in the homestay?
A: Leera makes significant contributions to the homestay experience. First, our guests can watch, learn, and mirror her performing training tasks correctly. Second, the energy she brings often helps ground anxious and reactive guest dogs. Third, her demeanor and skill set allow her to help inexperienced or improperly taught dogs to mindfully socialize. Leera is an invaluable component of our program.
Q: What is your philosophy?
A: To offer the best homestay possible where every dog we care for is treated like part of our own family.
Q: What is your approach to training?
A: Each dog is different, and every training journey will vary. For us, the process begins with getting to know your dog and finding out what motivates them. Building the relationship and earning trust require a common language, an established set of norms, and the dog's confidence that we care.
We never use methods that can be physically or emotionally harmful to the dog—but we do not limit ourselves to only positive reinforcement. We believe in holistic, balanced instruction and draw on a wide range of training techniques and tools to make sure we can help every dog that comes through our door. Force-free techniques are a good place to start (especially for puppies), but they often take longer, are limited in some situations, or will not work at all in others. Dogs operate differently from human beings. Consequently, we have to respect and work within their way of perceiving, interpreting, and interacting with the world.
We understand that training can be a daunting task. We will help you recognize why your dog behaves as they do and will provide guidance on how to maintain and advance the progress made during your homestay.
Q: Do you offer one-on-one training outside your homestay service?
A: We do. Our focus is teaching foundational skills that help dogs and their owners live happier and fuller lives in a “modern” world. This includes basic obedience, manners, reliable leash control, recall, confidence building, advocacy, equipment use, and help with issues like fear, anxiety, and reactivity. Our approach emphasizes real-world application as well as getting a dog to think and make good decisions.
Dogs receive structured exposure and individualized training routines; owners are guided through hands-on sessions and provided with video instruction to ensure they can replicate the results at home (your dog's success is dependent on your understanding of the training and your ability to maintain it). A follow-up consultation is also offered as part of the session.
Pricing is $150 for the initial consultation and $125 per session (approximately one hour) thereafter.
Q: Do you offer pick up/drop off services?
A: Yes. Availability and price vary upon location.
Health and Safety
Q: What if my dog needs medications?
A: We are able to provide oral medication under your direction.
Q: Is there an emergency care facility nearby?
A: Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital, one of the region's leading veterinary centers, is located five minutes (1.3 miles) away from us. It is open 24/7.
Q: What happens if my dog needs veterinary care?
A: The safety and well-being of your dog is our prime responsibility. Fortunately, our close, personal contact with your pet puts us in a unique position to observe subtle changes in behavior as well as in their physical state that could lead to the discovery a potentially compromising condition.
Our protocol is to first assess the issue and deal with any immediate life-threatening factors. We then reach out to our personal network of dog professionals for a second opinion. Next, we call you or your provided emergency contact. A decision will be made how to best proceed. If contact is not able to be made, we will move ahead by first reaching out to your vet. If unreachable, we will take your dog in for an evaluation and any required treatment at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital. Note that we will follow any advance medical directives you have specified in the Homestay Questionnaire.
Veterinary bills are the responsibility of the owner. This is why we encourage pet insurance as a component of your dog's homestay. Cost is nominal and coverage can be quite comprehensive.
Q: Are you certified in pet first aid?
A: Yes. CACVT (Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians) approved.
Q: What do you do to ensure my dog's safety?
A: Safety is our top concern, which means risk assessment is crucial. Prevention is pivotal here and begins with awareness followed by preparation. For example, your dog won't be left alone in a corner with a dog bone to occupy themself for a couple of hours unattended. While walking your dog (always on a leash and while in possession of a phone), we realize that unexpected situations can occur with other dogs or an animal, so we are ever vigilant and step in—or redirect—before an undesirable event is allowed to manifest. We will never allow your dog to be in a situation that would put them at serious risk. Your dog will be highly supervised.
While we are not licensed veterinary practitioners, we do stock a variety of wellness products, such as antibacterial spray for treating any minor injury, styptic powder for a chipped nail, sterile saline solution in the event that something gets in an eye as well as other selected first-aid supplies.
Should the unexpected occur, we will respond. Any issues that arise will immediately be reported back to you.
Q: Should my dog become lost, what would you do to recover him?
A: Such an event is highly unlikely. We have strict safety and security protocols in place. Diligence, attention, and experience are mainstays. Nevertheless, should such an event occur, we will do everything in our power to find your adventurer. In addition, pictures of your dog are taken during induction.
Q: What toothpaste do you use to brush a dog's teeth?
A: A mild, veterinarian-approved mixture of baking soda and water has proven both safe and effective.
Q: How will you bathe my dog?
A: Your dog is bathed indoors in our home—unless it is a large breed. Before bathing, your dog is thoroughly combed and brushed to remove mats, tangles as well as any foreign objects embedded in their coat (the presence of parasites, such as fleas or ticks, skin irritations or lumps will be reported to you). Ears and eyes are cleaned. We carefully lave between the toes. We only use organic baby shampoo, which we consider to be the safest and most hypoallergic shampoo available. Ears are kept covered. Your dog is thoroughly rinsed. We towel dry all of our guests. Dogs love it!
Q: What if there is a fire or other emergency?
A. We have a centrally located fire extinguisher and an evacuation plan in place. Our home has four emergency exits. Important documents and digital files are stored off-site. The house and its contents are fully insured. If there is a need to evacuate, your dog and our family take priority—and they get out first.
Payment/Financial
Q: When is payment required?
A: A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. The balance is due when you drop off your dog.
In the event of a prolonged visit, we ask that the completed portion of the homestay be paid in full and a 50% deposit be given for the extended portion of homestay.
Q: What if I need to cancel my reservation?
A: In the event of a cancellation, your deposit will be forfeited.
Q: When does the payment clock go into the next day?
A: Midnight marks the delineation of one billable day to another.
Our daily homestay rate is $250 per day. If, however, on the day of arrival a dog is dropped off after 3PM, the owner will be charged a half-day rate of $125 (if before 3PM, a full-day rate). Likewise, if on the day of departure a dog is picked up before 12 noon, a half-day rate applies (if after 12 noon, a full-day rate). For all days in between, the charge is $250 per day. Regardless of hours, there is minimal charge of $250 per homestay visit.
Q: Do you offer discounts for multiple dogs?
A: A fundamental part of our pricing model is the amount of time we dedicate to your dog. This component remains the same regardless of guest count.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Zelle, Venmo, and, of course, cash or check.
Legal
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes, we carry a general liability policy that covers damage or injury your pet may cause to another or to their property up to $1M.
It is your responsibility as owner to cover all of your dog's medical costs regardless of origin. Subsequently, we encourage all owners to carry individual health coverage for their dog—both during the homestay and beyond. Policies are very affordable and can be quite comprehensive.
Q: Do you have a boarding contract?
A: Yes. There is also an induction questionnaire that is completed early on as part of the homestay process.
Frequently asked questions