The AKC calls the Rat Terrier an American original, a compact, tough, smooth-coated dog with a name said to have been coined by Teddy Roosevelt. A stay with us is mostly about giving that sensitive, people-loving dog company and room to play.
A calm terrier with a high-energy engine
The AKC says Rat Terriers are happy-go-lucky, playful and portable companions. It also says they are one of the calmest of the terrier breeds but are still high-energy dogs who need exercise, daily walks and lots of companionship. They are at their best as members of a human family, the AKC adds, which is why a boarding stay needs a plan for attention.
Walks are part of the nightly rate. The AKC says most Rat Terriers thrive with daily walks and a bit of tennis-ball chasing in a fenced enclosure, and our fenced play areas and grass field fit that description. A small ball from home is welcome; send one, not the favorite.
A short coat that asks very little
The AKC describes a short, dense, smooth coat that needs only a weekly once-over, with seasonal shedding. A bath every month or so is plenty for most, says the AKC, so a bath before pick-up is a treat, not a must.
If you want one, the bath chart effective January 1, 2024 is the reference, and we ask you to confirm the price. At 15 pounds or less, extra short is $20 and short is $25. At 16 to 25 pounds, extra short is $30 and short is $35. Staff will tell you which column fits the coat. See the baths page for the chart.
Sensitive dogs, gentle hand-offs
The AKC calls the Rat Terrier unusually sensitive and intuitive, and says they love to please and thrive on praise. They may be reserved with strangers. That is useful to know on check-in day: hand over the leash calmly and keep the goodbye short and cheerful.
The AKC also says Rat Terriers tend to do well with other dogs their size or larger. Dogs see their neighbors through the fence, and share a run only with dogs from their own home.
Small body, winter and summer
A short-coated 10 to 25 pound dog feels temperature swings. Our runs are heated and air conditioned inside, and the Kuranda bed and blankets keep him off a cold floor. He can go in and out through the doggie door as he likes.
Sizing the stay
Both varieties fit Economy. One Rat Terrier is $52 a night, so a long weekend of 3 nights is $156 and 7 nights is $364. At 14 nights or more the rate is $47, making 14 nights $658; active military pay the same $47 rate, and the rate sheet does not list the discounts as combining, so call 707-678-6600 to confirm. Two Rat Terriers from one home can share a run, with the second at $44 a night. House food and medications are included. Pets must be 16 weeks or older and current on rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella. Canine influenza is recommended but not required.