For a dog with a food allergy, one wrong snack can undo weeks of careful work. The safest stay is one where the food, the treats and the instructions are decided before drop-off.
Why strictness matters
UC Davis' veterinary health topics page on allergies explains that finding a food allergy takes a diet trial, which runs about eight to twelve weeks on average, with only the prescribed diet fed during that time. That means no table scraps, flavored treats or flavored medications. A dog that has just finished a trial or is partway through one is exactly the dog that should not meet a surprise ingredient at the kennel.
Bring the food, in the bag
Own food is welcome at Happy Paws at no charge. Bring it in the original bag so the ingredient list is visible, and write the amount in cups for each meal. Bring a little extra for a late pick-up. If you use a slow-feeder bowl, bring that too. The house food is a grain-free kibble with wet food, farm-fresh eggs, hot dogs and treats, which suits many dogs but not a dog on a restricted or prescription diet. Skipping the house food and using your own is the simple answer. The food and treats FAQ covers the rest.
Tell the staff, in writing
The pet information form has fields for allergies, health conditions, feeding times, the amount in cups, whether you supply the food and which brand, and any special feeding instructions. Fill them in completely and say plainly which ingredients are off limits. If your dog should have no treats at all, say that. The extras are also worth a look: the Happy Lick Mat comes with peanut butter or cheese ($4.99) and the Happy Pupsicle is beef or chicken ($7.99), so skip them if your dog reacts to those ingredients.
Plan around the stay
Many chewable medications are flavored, so ask your vet which form is safe. Medications are given at no extra charge. Keep the diet the same for a week before the stay, since a change right before travel adds stress. See switching dog food safely for how to transition, and food and special diets for what Happy Paws does with them.