OUR PACK PHILOSOPHY
Dogmata [dog-maw-tah] noun:
an official system of principles or tenets concerning behavior that are strictly adhered to
We apply this definition to our pack members by providing leadership, obedience and structure throughout their day. This ensures we maintain a well-balanced and obedient pack environment for all of our playcare pack members. We firmly believe that mental exercise (obedience, rules, boundaries and limitations) is just as important as physical exercise in order to achieve proper socialization in a pack environment.
Dogmata is different from your typical daycare and boarding facility. We strive to simulate an authentic pack dynamic so all of our dogs (and humans) can begin to truly know and understand each other. Our maximum occupancy is twenty (20) canines. Dogs must come a minimum of three (3) days per week. By committing to a schedule, shy and insecure dogs grow more confident while overly excited and confident dogs learn to become calm. When your dog is at Dogmata, they always have free range of our facility. Our members have total access to our facility; from the play yard to the front office. Dogs are never confined to kennels, unless boarding for the night.
Our philosophy provides a safe, fun, and balanced pack for your dog to truly socialize and play while you're at work, school, or away on vacation. Dogs are social animals and adjust to the mentality and energy of both the humans and canines around them. An anxious and hyper dog will become calm when exposed to a mellow and balanced pack, creating a stress free environment while also allowing the dog to fully experience being part of a canine pack. A proper pack dynamic allows your dog to gain confidence, nurture their instincts, and satisfy both their mental and physical needs. Your dog will go home tired and better behaved with the rules, boundaries, and basic obedience we apply to our members-only pack.
In order to become a member, humans and canines must complete our evaluation. We also require dogs be up to date on all mandatory vaccinations required for their age and be spayed or neutered if older than six months. For more information regarding our requirements, please visit the "Evaluation and Membership" page or click here.
Members are expected to follow and respect our bylaws, which can be found below:
EXPERIENCE
Our head trainer currently runs two nationally certified human remains detection canines. He has worked with numerous law enforcement agencies at local, state, and federal levels. He is an active member of the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) and Canine Search and Recovery (CSAR). We utilize the U.S. customs method for scent association. Robert has been an integral part in setting the standards for national search and rescue certifications through his years with The National Search Dog Alliance (NSDA) in which he served as Products Chair, Public Relations Chair, Board of Directors, Vice President, and President.
He has participated in continuing education courses with Western Carolina University that includes canine behavior, forensic anthropology, lost person behavior, and cadaver search training in both land and water. He is certified with the University of Michigan in blood borne pathogen, HAZMAT, and crime scene preservation with the Bay County Florida Sheriff's Department. Accomplishments also include certifications of achievement that reaffirm his dedication to serve in times of crisis and continue professional development through FEMA and The U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Robert is President of Simon Recovery K-9s. He has actively participated in searches with Lisa Higgins and LaSAR, South Carolina Foothills Search and Rescue, Bay County Sheriff's Department, Washington County Sheriff's Department, Adams County (Natches, Mississippi), Geneva Alabama, Walton County, Dekalb and Fulton County Georgia, Alabama Bureau of Investigators, and the FBI.