FAQs
What is
a
slat mill?
A slat mill is a non-motorised, dog powered 'treadmill'.
Our slat mills are hand built in Australia from super durable materials, and are designed with hydraulic support to ensure a comfortable and safe run. The slat mills feature adjustable walls, top brace, inclines, and lead positioning; suitable for every dog’s unique size and needs.
What do the dogs do at daycare?
We have lots of ways to keep your pup happy and entertained while with us at daycare.
If you follow our daycare instagram page you can watch a pretty much live feed of your dogs day with us!
We will also send you personal photos and videos throughout the day.
The dogs generally keep one another very entertained with wrestling and chasing one another, and we are there to oversee everyone's interactions and keep things cool.
We play chase, fetch, tug, and bring out different interactive toys each day, we have water time and hose play, hew time and trick and treat training, endless cuddles and kisses as well as the most important - which is our afternoon structured nap time where all of the dogs come indoors and sleep for an hour.
How big is the space?
Our daycare boasts the largest daycare facility in Cairns, with over 400SqM of outdoor space, 5 pools, shaded areas, lounge chairs, as well as 100SqM of indoor airconditioned space, the dogs have an area bigger that rival most dogs parks to run about in all day long!
My dog is reactive towards other dogs, can we still use the fitness centre?
Absoloyerly, we designed thiss place with reactive dogs in mind, as we know it can be challenging to find places for yor dog to run around off leash without the chane of running into another dog.
In fact, we have a very strict rule that no 2 dogs are allowed to meet while inside the building, so you can rest assure that you will not bump into any other dogs while you visit us.
I have a treadmill for myself at home - can I just use that?
No! Human treadmills are not designed for dog's bodies or movement, and could cause injury. Our slat mills are built specifically for canine use and are non-motorised, so when the dog stops, the slat mill stops. Slats are soft on paws, enclosed walls ensure no sideways detours, and harnesses keep dogs on track.
I have a big backyard, and we go for walks - that's enough, right?
Most fit and healthy dogs can run at 25-40km/hour, and their regular walking pace is generally much faster than ours too. For optimum health, good cardiovascular fitness and meaningful energy burning, most dogs will need to run, or at least jog at their own pace. Even a large backyard is not enough for an extended run, and the stopping and starting after chasing a ball is quite damaging to the knee joints.
Slat mills offer a rare opportunity for your dog to hit full pace without worrying about fences, roads, leads - or their human keeping up.
Is K9 Fitness Centre only for large dogs, or very fit dogs?
Not at all!
All dogs above a weight of 4kg should be able to operate the slat mills. We have many small dogs who love a slat mill run. The slat mills are used to burn energy and build fitness, so are great for treating weight problems or in rehabilitation after some injuries. Being able to exercise in an air-conditioned space with trained staff is much safer and healthier too for older dogs or any dogs with health or fitness concerns.
Do you take all size dogs into daycare?
Absoloutely! We welcome dogs of all breeds shapes and sizes, and dont discriminate on any of the above. We match dogs according to their personality type, energy level and play style.
We have inside and outside areas as well as separate areas for our larger dogs and smaller dogs.
How often should we use the slat mills?
This depends on your aims and requirements. Weekly sessions can be enough to see physical and mental health benefits. Three to four times a week could result in dramatic behavioural and fitness improvements. And one-off sessions are great for when it's too hot or wet to walk, or they just need to burn some extra energy.
Can K9 Fitness Centre replace walking my dog?
In short: No.
Slat mills provide a different kind of exercise and stimulation than your dog would get on a neighbourhood sniff walk or park play and allow your dog that chance to really run.
Regular walks are however still important for sensory stimulation and gentle movement, but using the slat mills requires some focus and concentration which stimulates dogs and gives them a challenge.
What else can slat mills be used for?
As well as fitness benefits, a run on the slat mills also leaves you with a much more relaxed, calm and happy dog.
Regular use can result in long-term behavioural improvement, but slat mills can also be used as a quick zoomie before dogs need to be calm - maybe before a vet appointment or evening with the dog sitter, or a night or day home alone.
How long should my dog run?
It depends! All dogs are different; some might want to really run, while other will enjoy a slower pace. Things like fitness, personality, recent injuries or physical limitations, and even your dog's mood will affect how far and fast they want to go.
15 -20 minutes will give most dogs enough time to get a great physical and mental work-out without being over exerted, however some dogs may enjoy to go for longer than this, its totally up to them.
What age does my dog have to be to attend daycare?
Your dog must at minimum have had all of their puppy shots, and waited 10 days after their final shot.
We recommend socialising puppies from around the age of 3-4 months and onwards.
It is super important that you choose a daycare where your pup is supervised AT ALL TIMES to ensure a safe and happy experience.
Does my dog have to be desexed to come to daycare?
The Golden ball question that everyone wants to ask!
The short answer is no, but typically most of our daycare attendees are.
At K9, we are highly experienced dog handlers, and we know that being entire is only one piece of a puzzle when it comes to dogs and socialising.
Ultimately, it is the overall demeanour of the dog that is important, so we work on the basis that if the dog being entire doesn't affect their behaviour or their reception at daycare, then they are welcome.
