Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that leaving your pet in someone else's care raises many questions. Here are answers to the most common inquiries from pet owners in Toronto about our boarding services.

All dogs must be current on rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations. Cats require rabies and FVRCP vaccines. We need proof of vaccination from your veterinarian dated within the last 12 months for annual vaccines and 6 months for Bordetella. Pets must receive vaccines at least 48 hours before check-in to ensure immunity develops. We also require all pets to be on a regular flea and tick prevention program. If your pet's vaccinations have expired, please visit your vet before booking. This policy protects all animals in our care and maintains a healthy environment.

Yes, we encourage it. Bringing familiar items helps reduce stress during your pet's stay. You can bring your pet's regular food in clearly labeled containers with feeding instructions. We provide premium food, but many pets do better on their usual diet to avoid digestive upset. Personal bedding, blankets, or a favorite toy with your scent can provide comfort. We also welcome special bowls if your pet prefers them. Please label all items with your pet's name. Note that we cannot guarantee the return of items in their original condition, so avoid bringing irreplaceable belongings. Comfort items make the boarding experience smoother for most animals.

Dogs receive a minimum of three outdoor sessions daily in our secure play areas. Morning sessions last 30-45 minutes, midday playtime runs 20-30 minutes, and evening outings are 30-45 minutes. Active breeds or high-energy dogs can receive additional exercise time for an extra fee. We group dogs by size and temperament for safe socialization. Dogs who prefer solitary play get individual yard time. Our staff engages pets with fetch, walking, and interactive games. Indoor play areas are available during extreme weather. Each dog's exercise routine can be customized based on age, health, and energy level. Senior dogs receive gentler, shorter sessions suited to their mobility.

Our staff monitors all pets throughout the day for signs of illness or distress. If we notice concerning symptoms, we contact you immediately. For emergencies requiring immediate attention, we transport your pet to our partnered veterinary clinic on Shaw Street. You authorize emergency treatment when you sign our boarding agreement, and we make every effort to reach you first. Non-emergency situations are discussed with you before any action. We keep detailed records of your pet's behavior, eating habits, and bathroom routines. All medical incidents are documented and shared with you at pickup. You provide your regular vet's contact information at check-in, which we use for continuity of care when possible.

We welcome cats and house them in a separate, quiet area away from dogs. Each cat has a private suite with multiple levels for climbing, a window perch, and hiding spots. Suites include individual litter boxes, food and water stations, and comfortable bedding. Cats from the same household can share a larger suite if they get along. Our cat area maintains a calm atmosphere with soft music and pheromone diffusers to reduce stress. Staff members trained in feline behavior provide daily interaction, grooming, and playtime based on each cat's personality. Shy cats receive gentle, patient attention, while social cats enjoy more interactive play. We never force interaction and respect each cat's comfort level.

Check-in is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Check-out follows the same schedule. We are closed on Sundays for regular check-ins and check-outs. If you need to drop off or pick up outside these hours, we offer an after-hours service for an additional $25 fee with advance arrangement. Early morning or late evening appointments must be scheduled at least 48 hours ahead. Holiday hours may vary, so contact us before major holidays. Late pickups after 6:00 PM on weekdays or 2:00 PM on Saturday incur a $15 per hour late fee. We recommend booking your preferred time slot in advance, especially during busy seasons.

We generally discourage visits during boarding stays because they can increase separation anxiety when you leave again. Most pets settle into a routine within 24 hours, and visits can disrupt this adjustment. However, we understand that longer stays may warrant a visit. For stays exceeding two weeks, we can arrange a brief visit by appointment. As an alternative, we offer daily photo updates via email so you can see how your pet is doing. Our staff is available by phone during business hours to provide verbal updates on your pet's activities and mood. Many owners find these updates reassuring without the emotional disruption of an in-person visit. Your pet's wellbeing is our priority in making this recommendation.

We accommodate pets with special requirements at no additional charge for basic needs. Provide detailed written instructions for medications, including dosage, timing, and administration method. Our trained staff can give oral medications, apply topical treatments, and administer insulin injections. For complex medical needs, we may require a consultation before accepting the booking. Special diets are fed according to your instructions, and we keep feeding schedules consistent. Pets with allergies are housed separately if needed to prevent cross-contamination. We maintain detailed logs of all medication administration and meal times. If your pet requires prescription food, bring enough for the entire stay plus two extra days. Refrigerated medications are stored properly and administered on schedule.

Cancellations made 7 days or more before the scheduled check-in date receive a full refund minus a $25 processing fee. Cancellations made 3-6 days before check-in receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of check-in are non-refundable, as we have likely turned away other clients for that space. No-shows are charged the full boarding fee. For holiday periods including Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Victoria Day long weekend, we require 14 days notice for any refund. If you need to extend your pet's stay, contact us as soon as possible. Extensions are subject to availability and charged at the regular daily rate. Early pickups do not qualify for refunds on unused days. We recommend purchasing travel insurance if your plans are uncertain.

About Penozu

Penozu pet boarding facility

Our Story

Penozu opened its doors in 2015 when founder Sarah Mitchell recognized a gap in Toronto's pet care market. After struggling to find suitable boarding for her two rescue dogs during a family emergency, she decided to create a facility that treats animals with the same care she would provide at home.

Starting with a modest 2,000 square foot space on Shaw Street, we now operate a 6,500 square foot facility equipped with climate-controlled suites, outdoor play areas, and a dedicated grooming station. Our team has grown from three staff members to fifteen certified animal care professionals.

Professional pet care at Penozu

What We Do

We provide overnight boarding and daycare services for dogs and cats in a home-like environment. Each animal receives individual attention based on their temperament, dietary needs, and exercise requirements. Our staff includes three veterinary technicians who monitor health conditions and administer medications when needed.

The facility features separate areas for different animal sizes and temperaments. Dogs enjoy four daily outdoor sessions in our fenced yard, while cats have access to multi-level climbing structures and window perches. We maintain a 1:6 staff-to-animal ratio during peak hours.

8+ Years Operating
15 Certified Staff Members
3,200+ Animals Cared For Annually

Our Approach

We believe animals thrive when their routine remains consistent. That's why we ask detailed questions about feeding schedules, favorite toys, and behavioral quirks during intake. This information guides our daily care plans.

Safety protocols include health screening for all incoming animals, secure double-door entry systems, and 24-hour video monitoring. We require current vaccination records and conduct temperament assessments before accepting new clients.

Transparency

Daily photo updates sent to owners via email. Open facility tours available during business hours without appointment.

Qualified Care

All staff complete Pet First Aid certification and ongoing training in animal behavior recognition.

Clean Environment

Suites sanitized between guests using veterinary-grade disinfectants. HEPA air filtration throughout the building.

Community Focus

Partner with Toronto Animal Services and local rescue organizations to support animal welfare initiatives.