One Paw Away’s Dog Evaluation Process
At One Paw Away, safety, comfort, and individualized care are at the core of everything we do. Our evaluation process is designed to ensure that every dog who joins our daycare or boarding programs is placed in an environment where they can truly thrive.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we take the time to carefully assess each dog’s personality, energy level, play style, and comfort with new environments. This allows us to create the right fit—protecting the well-being of every dog in our care while ensuring your pup has a positive, low-stress experience from day one.
All evaluations are personally conducted and approved by our owners, allowing us to maintain the highest level of consistency, safety, and attention to detail. Because group dynamics matter, we are intentional about every introduction and every placement.
Our goal isn’t just acceptance—it’s the right environment, the right structure, and the right experience for your dog.
What the Evalutation Is (and isn't)
An evaluation is not a test your dog needs to “pass”—it’s a personalized meet-and-greet designed to help us understand your dog and determine the best care plan moving forward.
During this time, we assess your dog’s comfort level, temperament, and interactions in a new environment so we can thoughtfully place them in the setting where they will feel most secure and supported.
Some dogs may be a great fit for daycare and group play, while others may be better suited for boarding only, smaller group settings, or private accommodations. There is no one-size-fits-all approach—every decision is made with your dog’s individual needs in mind.
Our goal is never just acceptance—it’s the right fit, ensuring your dog feels safe, confident, and comfortable from the very beginning.
What to Expect During Your Evaluations
Evaluations are complimentary and typically last 15–30 minutes. This is a personalized introduction designed to ensure your dog feels comfortable and that we can determine the best fit for their care.
During your visit, you can expect:- A one-on-one conversation to learn about your dog’s routine, personality, and individual needs
- A guided tour of our entire facility, including both front and back-of-house areas
- Review of vaccination records and service requirements
- A brief, controlled behavioral assessment
- A gradual introduction to our environment and, if appropriate, other dogs
- Time to ask questions about daycare, boarding, puppy kindergarten, or grooming
For safety and transparency, pet parents remain on-site during the evaluation while we conduct a short, structured introduction in our dog yard.
All introductions are handled carefully and intentionally to ensure a calm, positive first experience for your dog.
Services That Require an Evaluation
To maintain a safe, structured, and well-balanced environment, an evaluation is required for the following services:
- Dog Daycare
- Dog Boarding
- Puppy Kindergarten
Because these services involve group settings and shared environments, evaluations allow us to ensure each dog is a safe and appropriate fit for our programs.
Grooming services do not require an evaluation, as they are one-on-one and do not involve group interaction.
Requirements to Use Daycare& Boarding Services
To ensure the health, safety, and overall well-being of all dogs in our care, the following are required prior to participation in daycare or boarding:
- Up-to-date vaccination records for Rabies, Bordetella, and DHLPP
- Completion of a trial evaluation
- Signed waiver on file
- Credit card on file through our secure booking system
- Prepayment for daycare packages and boarding stays
For the safety of all guests and staff, we are unable to accept dogs displaying aggressive behavior. All dogs must be able to safely interact within our structured environment.
Important Safety Policies
To protect the health, comfort, and well-being of every dog in our care, we follow a few important safety guidelines:
- A 7-day waiting period is required if your dog has recently stayed at another kennel or boarding facility
- Dogs are placed in playgroups and accommodations based on temperament, energy level, and compatibility—not size alone
- Not all dogs are approved for group daycare—and that’s okay. Private boarding and alternative accommodations are always available
These policies are in place to help prevent the spread of illness, reduce stress, and maintain a calm, structured, and balanced environment for all of our guests.
Scheduling Your Evaluation
Evaluations are available by appointment only, Monday through Friday, typically between 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
To schedule, please first create a profile for you and your dog through our website. Once your profile is complete, you can either request an evaluation online or call us and we’ll be happy to assist with scheduling.
- Location: 467 South Street, Morristown, NJ 07960
We look forward to meeting you and your pup!
Let’s Get Your Dog Started
Our evaluation process allows us to provide the right care, structure, and environment for your dog—starting from day one.
Create your profile and schedule your complimentary evaluation to get started. We’ll take the time to learn about your dog and recommend the services that best fit their needs, personality, and comfort level.
We look forward to welcoming you and your pup to One Paw Away.
