Part 15: The Final Checklist – How to Choose the Right Facility

Print this out. Ask these questions. Demand real answers.

We have covered safety, cameras, staffing, costs, and legality. We hope you choose Atlas Paws, but more importantly, we want you to choose safety.

Whether you tour our Downtown facilities or go elsewhere, please use this checklist to vet your provider. If they hesitate on any of these, walk away.

The "Must-Ask" Questions

1. "Who is awake at 3:00 AM?"

• Acceptable Answer: "A staff member is awake and in the room with the dogs."
• Red Flag: "We have cameras," "Someone lives upstairs," or "The dogs sleep alone."

2. "Can I see where the dogs sleep right now?"

• Acceptable Answer: "Yes, let me show you."
• Red Flag: "No, insurance doesn't allow tours," or "It's messy right now."

3. "What is your evacuation plan for a fire?"

• Acceptable Answer: "We have sprinklers, leashes by the exit, and a designated meeting point."
• Red Flag: Silence or "I'd just grab them."

4. "Are you commercially licensed and zoned?"

• Acceptable Answer: "Yes, here is our license."
• Red Flag: "I don't need one," or "I operate under the radar."

5. "Do you charge extra for playtime or cuddles?"

• Acceptable Answer: "No, care is all-inclusive."
• Red Flag: "Yes, group play is $15 extra."

The Final Verdict

Your dog can't speak for themselves. You are their advocate. Choose the facility that offers transparency, legality, and genuine 24/7 care.

Ready to join the pack? We have two convenient locations to serve you:

📍 161 Spadina Ave

📍 529 Richmond St East