Essential Paws was created with a very specific client in mind- one who wants nothing but the best for their dog. Whether it’s food, grooming or daycare, you don’t cut corners.. and neither do we.
While our daycare aims to provide a safe home away from home for your fur kid, we believe safety shouldn’t be a perk, it should be a given. We go above and beyond safety- aiming to satisfy them mentally, physically and emotionally.
A tired dog is a good dog. But a satisfied dog?
That’s Magic.
Old school daycare is out.
Enrichment is in!
Requirements and Policies
While most pet care facilities require a “meet and greet,” (typically one day of daycare), we require a 3-day full personality assessment conducted by our behavior-certified dog handlers.
What does it take to “pass” and become part of our pack?
-Proper dog-to-dog greetings
-Appropriate play styles
-Appropriate reactions to social cues from other dogs
-Zero reactivity when gates or leashes are present
-Low or manageable levels of separation anxiety from parent
-Ability to self-regulate/relax comfortably during down time
-Zero food aggression towards handlers during meal time
-and physical signs of overall contentment in our care!
After 8 years of welcoming new guests into our resort, we can confidently say it’s IMPOSSIBLE to get to know a dog in one day. Our innovative induction program gives us time to truly bond with your bestie. We will get to know their likes, dislikes and determine if we are the best fit for them. By the end of our induction, we are able to cultivate an enrichment program that has them dragging you to our front door!
*All of our guests are also required to be fixed by the age of 6 months old, and show proof of Rabies and Distemper vaccines or recent titers.
Just like us, dogs need more than just physical exercise to thrive.
Benefits of Enrichment
Calmer Energy: Brain games and puzzles provides mental “work,” which helps regulate the nervous system by reducing arousal levels and promoting calm.
Improves behavior: Offering a healthy outlet to a dog’s natural need to expel frustration can reduce unwanted behaviors like chewing, barking and jumping.
Improves social skills: Dogs are pack animals! They crave interaction. Engaging in group enrichment at our resort is a great way to build social skills in a safe environment, supervised by dog behavior specialists.
Reduces Anxiety: Many of our enrichment activities includes choices, control, and success—things that give dogs emotional confidence. Dogs that regularly succeed at small challenges are proven to feel more secure and less reactive to stress.
Better overall well-being: Enrichment provides a holistic approach to your dog’s care, ensuring they are mentally, physically, and emotionally satisfied.
A tired dog is a good dog. But a fulfilled dog?
That’s Magic.
Client Testimonial
“Look. Listen. FRIEND—I’ve recommended Essential Paws to everyone I know, but I’ve also been a little lowkey about it because this place is seriously a hidden gem. It’s not just doggy daycare…it’s a 5-star -adventure-experience for your dog! One day soon, I’m telling you right now, this place is going to blow up and go viral.
From day one, I knew this was the place for my boy Mr. Fiji. The energy, the love, the way they treat each pup like a VIP—it’s unmatched. They host the most adorable, fun events (YES, actual themed parties for dogs!), and they make every dog and human feel so special. And each event and holiday more memorable 💕😭🙏🏼.
Mariah deserves all the clout—her passion, creativity, and genuine love for the dogs shines every single time. She has gone above and beyond to make every visit special. Her passion, creativity, and attention to detail (especially with the events!) truly stand out.
Gabbie, the amazing owner, has created something truly special here—safe, loving, and full of joy. And the rest of the crew—Manny, Myla, and Jasmine—are just as incredible. Fiji is so excited each time one of them greets him. He knows what time it is the second we’re coming over the bridge - essential paws pawty time 🤣😎 Every team member makes it feel like family (actually, better than family—because I trust them with Fiji more than I trust my own family!).
I’m so glad I ever found out about this place, my cousin recommended it years ago about being a “bougie but decent pricing fun place for dogs” definitely lives up to its reputation.”
-Maria Depietro
