I'm keeping the rating at 2 stars, but kudos to Villa la Paws for calling me to discuss the issues I had. My biggest concern was that my Jack Russell Terrier did not get as much mental and physical stimulation and that each time I looked at the Webcam there was no play at all. The manager I spoke with explained that some days they have dogs that do not share toys well, so they just don't get the toys out. My comment back to that was questioning why they punish the good dogs when the toy-unfriendly ones should just be separated out. She was going to review some tapes to see what other activities went on that I didn't see. Although Webcam or no, I knew he was bored from his actions when I picked him up.
She also explained that Tuesdays and Thursdays tend to be their slower days so they typically have just one room of dogs. And I know Mondays they do $18 for the day, which takes away my comment that they are way too expensive.
She did offer me a free day of doggie day care, but I'll have to ponder that. I try hard to honor the spirit of the Jack Russell Terrier. He is home now after a day at another place and he is curled up and exhausted...he was from the moment he got in the car.
So for people who have laid back dogs that really enjoy just getting out of the house while mom or dad are working, Villa la Paws is first rate. Unless they make a significant change to how the dogs interact, the very active, smart dogs that need some mental challenge during the day might get bored here.
Will I try Villa la Paws again? Honestly, I'm not sure. Should you? Absolutely! This company has a lot to offer. And I very well might go there for the Hollywood Dogs training class. But dog day care? They'll have to earn my trust before I leave Schooner there for 9 hours again.