Respiratory Illness Strategies

Tucker Pup's has developed many strategies to combat the risk of respiratory illness for the dogs in our care, and their safety is our top concern. We do not believe that many pet businesses are taking these steps, and they further demonstrate what sets us apart.

• No dogs allowed who are coughing or showing signs of illness. We do not allow dogs to enter our facility who are showing signs of illness, including coughing.


• CIV and Bordatella vaccinations required. We require the newest Canine Influenza vaccination (CIV), called H3N2, for all dogs who use our services. We also require Bordatella (also called Canine Cough). Vets indicate that these vaccinations help fight off respiratory illnesses. Click here to view our CIV vaccination policy.


• Other vaccinations recommended. Based on advice from veterinarians, we are strongly recommending the Adenovirus 2 and Parainfluenza vaccinations.


• Two weeks to build immunity. Vets recommend that if your dog is receiving a vaccination for the first time, that you give at least two weeks afterwards in order to build immunity before joining other dogs.


• Fresh air. We have a sophisticated HVAC system that brings in tons of fresh air, and exhausts old air, several times per hour. This is highly effective in removing respiratory contagions from the building.


• Ultraviolet lights. We have an ultra-violet light system in our ductwork that kills viruses on contact, yet is harmless to humans and dogs. These lights have been found to be effective against respiratory illnesses.


• Seamless flooring. Our floors are completely seamless, so they don't harbor bacteria and are as easily cleanable and sanitary as possible.


• Cleaning equipment. Our cleaning equipment is highly effective at removing residue from surfaces, keeping them as sanitary as possible.


• Animal-specific disinfectants. We spend extra money to purchase animal-specific disinfectants, which kill many viruses including parainfluenza, distemper, and parvovirus. The majority of pet businesses only use chemicals such as bleach or general-purpose cleaners, which are not effective against animal-specific illnesses.


• Outbreak response. Even though we have all of these resources in place, an outbreak is still technically possible. If this is the case, we follow a protocol to ensure the safety and well-being of the pets in our facility, including communicating with our customers, taking dogs to the vet if necessary, keeping them out of group play, monitoring their health carefully, and deep-cleaning our facility often.

Dogs at the highest risk of respiratory illness have the following factors:

• Advanced age
• Compromised immune system
• Underlying health condition
• Unvaccinated (we require these for coming to our facility)
• Puppies who have not received their full set of vaccinations (not including Rabies)

Please note that Tucker Pup's does not reimburse customers whose dog may develop a respiratory illness during an outbreak. Click here to learn more about our Health Warranty Program. We invite you to call us with any questions or concerns. We are here to help!