Pooch Hotel

My black Labrador retriever Cooper has been going to Pooch for about 2 years now and although he is unable to speak, I think it's safe to say he loves going there. Cooper goes to daycare 5 days a week which has been beneficial for both of us. Cooper has an unrelenting amount of energy and he would not be okay stuck in a house (or cage) by himself all day. Pooch Chicago has been the perfect place for him because he gets to be active and social, while being well supervised. James typically drops off and picks up Cooper and he does a wonderful job. Not only is he considerate (i.e. he always knocks and announces when he's coming in) but he also clearly treats Cooper as if he were his own dog. James and Robin have been very accommodating to special requests which shows me that they value my business and always have Cooper's best interests in mind.

Posted 04/21/08

I've taken my dog Ralph to Pooch since I got him almost a year ago. The staff has always been responsive and addresses all of my questions. They pick up and deliver as promised. Ralph comes home rested and happy. I can't think of a single problem I've had.

Posted 04/21/08

We have been trusting Pooch Chicago with our puppy, Mika for the last 8 months. Our pup has a ton of energy so we take her to Pooch 3 to 5 times a week. Our experience with Pooch has consistently been fun and friendly service. The Pooch Staff is ALWAYS willing to help and go the extra mile to accommodate our needs. It certainly makes it easier to go out of town for a few days knowing Mika is in such nice, capable hands.
We repeatedly thank Pooch Chicago for making us feel so comfortable with their beautiful facility and warm staff.

Thanks Pooch you guys are with out question the BEST in Chicago!!

Mika thanks you all too!!

Pros: Dedicated Staff

Cons: Absolutely none comes to mind

Posted 04/21/08

We have been using Pooch for two years now to keep our very special GoldenDoodle busy, but in the last year it has been crucial because we had twins last August. Roscoe is very spoiled - in fact we consider him "a human a dog suit" and once the babies got here he felt very neglected. But Pooch filled that void. My husband travels a lot and they pick him up and drop him off and are always responsive to my last minute pick up needs.

We ask Roscoe every morning if he wants to go to "school" and he goes crazy and can't wait to get in the car to go to Pooch. I could not survive the first year of motherhood without Pooch and nor could Roscoe. We love them!

Pros: customer service, pet services

Posted 04/21/08

We have been taking our labs Tyson & Cooper (better known at pooch as ?The Gentlemen?), for almost 4 years. Our youngest, Grace, just started there last week and even as a puppy, we don?t worry about her during the day one bit. We started with Robin when Pooch was still on Belmont years ago, and have never had anything but an overwhelmingly positive experience. In fact, I would say that Robin and her staff literally improve our quality of life; knowing our dogs (that really are more like our children) are being even more spoiled during the day than they are at home & being able to rely on the staff to get them home and fed if we need to work late is absolutely priceless. The only concern I have is that they seem far happier at Pooch than they are at home! The facility is THE most impressive thing I have ever seen. Because our boys spent so much time at Pooch I have been through the facility a number of times (both before and after the grand opening) and it boggles the mind! Sleeping arrangements with flat screen TV?s, the grooming area, indoor and outdoor play area?s, and of course the pool . . . .they usually have nicer accommodations than we do when they are boarded and we are traveling. MOST importantly the staff at pooch is absolutely, beyond a doubt, the best I have ever encountered. I drop our boys off every morning, so the staff at Pooch are usually are the first experience I have every day . . and every day I walk back to the car with a smile. I don?t know what we would do without Pooch, and if you?re taking your dogs anywhere else in the city, you?re crazy!

Pros: Serious love for dogs, incredible staff, floors you could eat off of, flexibility

Cons: NONE

Posted 04/21/08

We LOVE Pooch!!! I can't express that enough, truly! We've been taking our Ruby, a bullmastiff, here since she was 3 months old, and now she's 1 yr, and still loving it, and so are we! Not only is the facility very clean and the staff very warm, but Robin is just amazing! Her knowledge, and love for dogs is apparent to anyone who comes in the door. Ruby is our first dog, and we researched a lot of other Chicago doggie day cares, and decided to go with Pooch, and haven't moved since. All dogs have one issue or another, and our lil' Ruby, has some tummy issues, so needless to say, finding the right food/diet, etc. has been an ongoing project for us. Robin really helped us weigh different options, and even spoke w/ the owner of "For Dog's Sake", a pet nutrition/organic/raw food store, to find out what was best for Ruby, which meant so much to my husband and I! The Pooch staff always takes great care of our puppy, and we can see how much they love Ruby, and I think she senses that too! Pooch has been phenomenal for our dog and us both daily, and when we travel too. We know she's getting the best possible care, play, and love both at home and at Pooch! Thanks POOCH! We love you!!! (and, we all know the negative reviews are illegite!!!)

Pros: Robin***, the staff, their love for dogs, convenience, cleanliness, etc.

Cons: still haven't thought of one!!!

Posted 04/21/08

Pooch Chicago has been a true life saver for my husband and i since we started bringing our boxer Stella there over a year ago. I really don't know what we would do without Pooch's daycare services and we bring her there often for boarding. The facilities are immaculate and their customer service is friendly and accommodating. The owners and employees are very caring and helpful. I have felt that my dog is very well taken care of at Pooch and I plan to continue to make use of their fabulous services. Pooch is truly my dog's home away from home.

Pros: Clean facilities, caring staff, helpful service

Posted 04/21/08

I have been bringing my dog Cosmo to Pooch Chicago for about a year now. He is a Beagle with a lot of energy and Pooch has done wonders for him, as well as for me. He goes there three days a week and he always comes home smelling great and very tired. I had taken him to a few other places around the city before I found Pooch. I never felt that they were clean enough, nor did I think they took care of him as I would like. When Cosmo is at Pooch I never worry because I know that they love him as much as I do. There staff is always corteous and very well informed as to what he has been doing all day. They even have report cards on extended stays to tell you his mood and his eating habits. I think that Pooch Chicago is honestly the best place in the city of chicago to bring your dog. I have read some of the negative reviews of Robin's staff as well as Pooch in general and I just shake my head. I, like a lot of other people treat my dog as if he were my child, and I really don't allow him to be watched by just anyone. I know that I can count on Robin, and everyone on her staff to treat him better than even I would. He loves them all and it shows when I open the car door and he sprints for the entrance. Sometimes I get sad because I think he might prefer it there to our house. We love Pooch Chicago!

Posted 04/21/08

Great place for my dog, Talan. She loves it! The Team is very focused on the dogs in their care but always take time to talk with me regarding Talan's day. I often see her on the video montior either playing with the other dogs or sleeping - which she does a lot. Robin and her team have even made special arrangements for us to pick up Talan after hours because we were late coming back from a trip. GREAT PLACE and they take really great care of Talan.

I'm not a huge fan of bording Talan or being away from her but when we have to go out of town, I have no worries leaving her with Robin's team. I know that she will be safe and they ensure she eats along with plenty of playtime. Being a 75 lb Akita - if she did not want to go to daycare - she would let us know pretty quickly. Talan is very excited to go to daycare each day and loves the team that plays with her! We even get Talan a few swims each month and while she does not like the life jackets - she loves the water and spending time with the Pooch Team!!

Great Place and Great Team!

Thank YOU!

Pros: Great Team and Spa Services.

Cons: None.

Posted 04/12/08

We have been taking our dogs to Pooch since they were on Belmont. Robin has always taken great care of our dogs. They adore her and they are very happy to be at Pooch. I never think twice about leaving them for vacation as communication is an email away and to my embrassment I have the story that proves it. We were in Honduras and my daugther (age 10) missed the dog. She started a daily email correspondence with Robin to find out how Scrappy was. The only reason I found out about the conversations was my daugther started requesting spa treatments and swimming lessons for Scrappy. Robin suggested that Madi get my permission. I agreed to a swimming lesson and the next day, Robin emailed pictures of Scrappy swimming and I took the computer away from my daugther.

Pros: every aspect of care

Cons: none

Posted 04/11/08

I just got home from picking up Pogo my pup, at Pooch Chicago. I have to say I LOVE this place! I just moved to Chicago and I was really trying to find a place that would love my pup as much as I do. With their motto: "We love dogs" they really stood out to me when I was searching for a place over the web. The place was so clean, the girls at the counter were friendly and overall it just gave me a good vibe. When I picked Pogo up he was so happy and even stopped to play with the dogs in the lobby. He just didn't want to leave! I guess the only con of this place is that my dog probably liked it better there than at home!

Posted 04/10/08

Read the negative reviews and be wary of this place. Unless the management finally decided to change their poor business practices, which I doubt, then I would definitly suggest looking else where. Unfortunately, they seem to spend most of their time writing their own great reviews than actually taking care of their dogs and customers!

Pros: Can't think of one

Cons: Unattentive staff, short hours, tours with an appointment only, no webcam

Posted 04/09/08

I board my dog often at Pooch Chi and am always very satisfied! The staff is repeatedly very friendly and I love it that they know me and my dogs name when we walk through the door. My dog can be a bit of a handful as well and it is nice that they know just what to do.

It is nice to know that I can count on them to be their for me in a pinch and I do not have to worry about my kid while I am away at work. If you want a service provided you can count on call Pooch!

Pros: Reliable, professional, friendly

Posted 04/07/08

I have been taking my dog to Pooch for almost a year now. In the last year I have had nothing but the best of service from Pooch and their entire staff. My dog doesn't like people to hold him, but when anyone on staff at Pooch puts their arms out he will go to them. He doesn't like any of my friends or family to hold him but loves everyone there.

Everytime I go there they know who I am and who my dog is. They make him part of their family and I couldn't be any happier. If I could give them 10 stars I would. The owner is fabulous. She always is smiling even if she's been there from 6:30am to 7pm around 50 barking dogs all day long. I don't know how she does it! She always has something nice to say. All of the employees there are amazing. I would NEVER consider taking my dog anywhere else.

Before I found Pooch I had visited a couple of other daycares and they were scarey. Not all of them had security. Anyone could just walk in at any time. They had dirty furniture and dirty floors. They were cold and impersonal. From the moment I walked into Pooch I knew it was the place for my dog. He is everything to me, and it means the world to me that he loves everyone there so much. I know him and I know his personality and if he was unhappy there he would let me know. He screams to get out of the car as soon as we pull up in front. He can't wait to play with all of his friends. He is a better dog for it, and I am a happier person. I thank everyone at Pooch from the bottom of my heart for being the best there is out there. They are what all doggie daycares should aspire to!

Posted 02/29/08

I take my dog to Pooch 2-3 times a week and I would take her more if I could! The friendly staff has welcomed us into their family since the first day we went. They even recognize my car when I pull up and sometimes have her ready to go home before I even walk in the door. They keep their facilities extrememly clean and it is quite obvious the entire staff is there because of their love of dogs. I take my dog to Pooch because I am confident that they treat her with as much care as I do.

Posted 02/25/08

I send my dog to Pooch for daycare 2 times per week and love it! Great staff (friendly, helpful) and my doggy loves going to spend her days there. If I could afford it I would send her more often. There was one occasion when I got stuck in traffic and I could not get there on time. I called them and the manager told me it was no problem and that she would have the night person let me in after hours. Now that is what I call great customer service! When this happened I think I had only been a customer for a couple of weeks and it just meant a lot to me that they went the extra mile. They also have a great referral program....I have been telling everyone I know how happy we are with Pooch.

Pros: customer service, parking, location

Cons: $$$

Posted 02/23/08

I am long time customer of Pooch. I went there even in their humble beginnings on Belmont Ave. before they moved into their fab new location on Clybourn. I bring my girl to them everyday for daycare and have been a loyal customer for over 3 years! Well on Friday morning I witnessed something that I found quite interesting. Another client that came in before me was having a discussion with the owner. Apparently this person had written a review about Pooch (throwing away items) a .25cent GLAD container to be exact...you will see it a few reviews below. This person goes on to call the staff stupid, etc., etc. I cannot help but laugh...lady you are upset over a .25cent GLAD container being thrown away! Give me a break. So she writes a negative review about this business but has the NERVE to come back anyway?? The Owner of Pooch politely tells her that her business isn't welcome because of the review she wrote. This person then turns white and trys to first deny it and then blame it on her sister! Rididculous! Now she writes another negative review about the fact that she cannot use the service anymore. I mean come on! Who publically slams a business and then expects to be greeted with open arms? I was cheering on the Owner and appalauding her for not letting this woman back in her business. Pooch Chicago is a first-class business and I and thousands of others are very, very satisfied. This is my 2 cents andit is worth much more than this cheap womans .25cent GLAD container!

Pros: EXCELLENT SERVICE, HELPFUL AND ACCOMMODATING STAFF

Posted 02/23/08

My dogs stayed with Pooch for almost 2 weeks last month (12 days). He is a special needs boy and I was not happy about having to leave him in a strange place for so long but I had no choice (all friends and family were busy and couln't watch him). Well, I am so happy that I left with with caring staff at Pooch. I called several tiems to check up on him and I got a detailed report on how he was doing. I also received a detailed report card on his stay when I picked him up. All I can say is that their staff is so helpful and so nice and that my boy came home happy and healthy. He has such a crazy diet and med schedule and Pooch followed my instructions to the T! Thanks so much ladies at Pooch. I will be bringing big "B" back to see you again soon. You have really made going on vacation a pleasant experience for me from now on. Your great services really man the world to me.

Posted 02/23/08

Be warned that if you write a bad review for Pooch Chicago, your business will no longer be welcome there. With most businesses, some of their main goals include customer satisfaction, prompt service recovery, and customer retention. Not the case here. There was a comment about my dog's previous stay at Pooch Chicago, and despite the negative experience (was given no apology, no follow up call to try to resolve the matter, rude staff), I decided to take my dog there again. Well this morning I was told that due to the negative comment my business was no longer welcome. I was told that my comment has "ruined some of their business after they've been so good to me". I've seen some of the negative comments written about this place (rude staff, dogs not administered medications properly, dogs smelling of urine when returned to the owner), and from what I can see, the people working there are what is "ruining their business". I'm not one to sweep things under the rug, I like to deal with them and resolve them. If someone has a negative experience (here or elsewhere), I would think that most people look to the manager/owner to try to resolve the issue to reatin the business and then try to find the root cause of the problem and deal with it so that the problem does not arise again. As far as them being "good to me"...I PAY them to do a job, no one there is going above and beyond or giving away free items. I tried giving them another chance, most businesses would love second chances, but not this place. If you give them your honest feedback to their face, they act as if they don't care, if you write a comment on a website to inform others of your experience there, you can't go back. If you write a bad comment, don't bother making the trip down there to drop your dog off because you business will no longer be welcome.

Posted 02/22/08

I and several of my coworkers have been taking our dogs to Pooch for awhile now for boarding. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. They always return my calls promptly when I call to check on my dog and I feel very comfortable taking my dog there. The previous reviewer says that they didn't get a tour of feedback??? I find this completely unbelieveable. I and all of my coworkers have been given a tour and they always give a detailed report card when we pick our dogs up. So, I would leary of that review and just go see for yourself.

My dog absolutely loves going there and in fact starts barking and scratching to get out of the car when we are about a block away. As soon as he jumps out of the car he practically pulls me through the door! They always take just fantastic care of him and I trust them completely.

Overall this place gets an A+++ from me, and I know all my coworkers are thrilled as well.

Posted 02/17/08

I would not recommend taking your pet to this 'hotel.' The staff is cold, inpersonable and behave asthough you owe them something although you are paying to have your pet stay there. They were reluctant to provide me with any information about my pets stay there and he was not ready when I came to pick him up. He was still wet from his grooming service and had to go urinate very badly - although pick up time was arranged a head of time. They also refused to let me look at the premise and provided me with a pic of the suite and the website address rather than showing it to me for themselves. Would not use again.

Pros: Outside facility is beautiful

Cons: service, poor caretaking and inattentive staff

Posted 02/16/08

I recently stopped going to my current daycare because their transport service, lack of customer service, and poor communication just drove me away. A coworker recommened I contact Pooch Chicago because they have been sending their puppy their for nearly a year and half and have had no problems and they are always raving about the place. I went and took a tour and met with the staff and knew right away that this was heads and tails above my current daycare. I have been sending my dog to them now for a little over a month and we (me and my pup) just love it. Their transport service is very reliable and they always contact me if their is a problem. Their staff is really, really nice and I can tell that they genuinely care about dogs and customer satisfaction. They did have to cancel daycare a few times this month due to the snow and ice on the roads but truthfully I was thankful that they did. Safety should be of utmost importance to them and clearly they understand that. So far me and the pup couldn't be happier!

Pros: Reliable transportation service, good customer service, always provide feedback

Cons: none at this time!

Posted 02/09/08

I've been taking my dog to Pooch Chicago for about 3 months now, and for the most part, it's been good. However, something happened today that left a sour taste in my mouth. This morning when I took my dog in for daycare, I gave the employee some dog food that was in a Glad container. When I picked up my dog this evening, I asked to have the container back, the person at the desk didn't know where it was, but didn't really look fot it. The person who retrived my dog for me went back upstairs to look for the container, and couldn't find it. The receptionist then told me that the girls who feed the dogs throw away all containers that the food comes in. I asked if this was the case even with reuseable containers like the Glad one I had, and she replied yes and told me that in the future, I should bring her food in a plastic baggie. I told her that I wish I knew that they threw away people's belongings because I wouldn't have gave them a Glad container. It's not even about the vlaue of the container, but the fact that someone would be stupid enough to throw something like that away is beyond me. When I handed them the Glad container in the morning, they didn't say "oh, when we're done with this, we're going to throw it away" or "just to let you know, we generally throw away containers". That simple gesture would have been a little too kind. I think if they do have people working there who are stupid enough to throw away reuseable containers, they should at least warn the customers when they drop off food, have a sign in the lobby, or have something on their website instead of just throwing things in the trash.

Posted 02/06/08

Ok, I am a very nervous mom...haven't been on vacation for over 2 years because I will not leave my dog with just anyone. I finally broke down and bought a ticket to Florida New Years to go see some of my old sorority sisters. I set out on my quest to find an adequate place to leave my little cavalier. I toured 3 different well known places and decided on Pooch. Here are the reasons why I chose them over Stay, Urban Outsitters, and Dogs Day Inn.:

1. They gave me a full tour of their facility and it was very clean, organized, and the staff was so accommodationg in answering all of my MIILION questions! I got to the see the playgroups in session and there was adequate staff in each area and the dogs seemed well mannered and happy.

2. I really like that they have seperate hotel areas for small and large dogs as I think my little cavalier would be really nervous if he had to stay next to a large barking dog.

3. My pup takes medication and they do not charge extra for this. They let me bring his bed and his own food.

Overall, the staff was just really, really nice! I called them several times when I was away and they always called me back with a report on how he was doing. Their facility is just insanely beautiful...I want to move in! I really want to thank Pooch for taking such good care of my pup when I was away and I now feel confident that I can take more vacations knowing that I now have a really good place to leave him.

Pooch is a lifesaver...THANK YOU!

Pros: caring employees - great facility - peace of mind - clean

Cons: none

Posted 01/08/08

Pooch is quite simply a revelation - we wouldn't choose another dog hotel in the city. Our Bernese Mountain Dog, Bernie, who is now 20 months old has been going to Pooch when we take vacations for well over a year now. As we spend most of our vacations overseas, in Europe, we need to know that Bernie is being well taken care of and is in an environment that he enjoys. This is certainly the case - every time I take him, he almost pulls me over to get in through the door! The staff are great, and truly understand what it means to care for your (furry) loved ones - they take a few seconds to email me with updates on Bernie, which is so little but means so much and shows how much they care.

Keep up the great work, Pooch, and Bernie will see you soon.

Pros: Quality of hotel, excellence of service

Cons: None

Posted 01/07/08

My dog, Rudy, recently had major surgery... 7 mass cell tumors removed and ACL surgery to boot. Needless to say - he was a canine catastrophe after leaving the vet. I couldn't take him home because I live on the top floor of my building and Rudy was not allowed to walk up any stairs. As soon as I walked in the door at Pooch - I was greeted by an extremely attentive and friendly staff member. I told her my situation and explained that Rudy would need full time care, a place to stay, no stairs or play time... but lots of TLC. They promised all of the above and let me tell you... the staff at Pooch more than delivered. They let me come by every single day to visit Rudy and have alone time with him. They gave him all of his meds... called me daily with updates if needed and they basically treated him like he was one of their own. I was a wreck the day I took Rudy there after his surgery. I was so upset that I wouldn't be able to nurse him back to health. The staff at Pooch did a better job than I could have! I cannot say enough great things about this place or the staff here. The owner is extremely hands on... she knows every owner and dog by name and she did whatever she could to make Rudy and even me comfortable. As soon as Rudy completely recovers - I can't wait to take him back for play time. Because I spent so much time visiting there - I really got to see a 'behind the scenes' view of how they operate. The place is clean, organized and run like a five star hotel. Rudy had a nice suite all to himself and every time I would stop by - it was clean, he had fresh water, treats and an update on when he had eaten. I am just amazed at how they have everything down to a science and are able to care for so many pooches!! If you need a place for your dog to stay while they recover or just a place to stay while you are gone - you should take them to Pooch and tell them Rudy the white boxer sent you!

Posted 01/05/08

Claims to be a leading dog hotels and facilities in the Chicago area. I really wanted to tour this facility given its nice lobby appearance but was given several excuses why i couldn't...Everything seemed fine for a short time period, but my dog kept being returned to me smelling like urine, This holiday season was very busy for us, and we asked if we could pick our dog up early, but no special consideration was given to us, and really for all i know my dog could have been laying is his glass cage all day long unsupervised. Over time i started to ask questions how my dog was doing what he diid that day, how long are his playtimes...all i could get from the manager or owner was a fine, fine answer, everything is fine?...Then my dog came home with PINK-EYE ! and still smelled like urine! It seems these dog caring/loving people that they claim to be, are either overcrowded or possibly under staffed or a combination of both. In the mean time i have found another daycare and boarding facility, where they seem genuinely seems happy to have my business....Thank you and Good-Bye Pooch !!!!!!!

Pros: Fancy Lobby

Cons: Was My dog allowed out to play? Over Priced and No special pick-up considerations

Posted 01/03/08

I have used the services of Pooch now for the last year for boarding. Every stay for my 2 bichonpoos has been an excellent experience. I truely feel that the staff really cares about the well being of Jack and Stella. This is the 3rd place I have used in the past 3 years and I finally found a place I feel great about. Place is not cheap but I like that the price basically is all inclusive and I feel comfortable they are at the best place in Chicago. Staff was very warm and listened - one of my dogs has special needs.

Pros: location, staff was top notch, very very clean

Cons: none

Posted 12/08/07

I use Pooch for daycare and my dog loves it! We started going to Pooch last Summer and so far we couldn't be happier. I have a small dog and I really like that they separate small and larger dogs. He gets so excited when I ask him if wants to go to Pooch to play with the puppies! He pulls me through the door and at night when I get him in the car he sleeps the entire car ride home...I love it!

I have also been happy with the staff and the facility. The girls that work at Pooch are always so nice to me and if my dog ever is not feeling well they always call me ahead of time to let me know. Their facility is always SO CLEAN and my pup has never come home smelling poorly. I was at another daycare place prior to finding Pooch and he would often come home smelling of dirty dog and urine. This has NEVER happened at Pooch! Thanks ladies for simplifying our lives.

Pros: Nice people, super clean facility, safe, my dog LOVES IT there!

Cons: It's a little far from my condo, but it's worth the extra drive

Posted 12/01/07

When you walk into Pooch you will be amazed at the cleanliness and decor. It is truly nicer than most human hotels and it is as clean as a human hotel. I have no idea how they do it! There are so many dogs that come through their doors on a daily basis that I just don't know how they find the time to keep the place that clean! I mean I can't even keep my condo clean with just one short haired little dog! I degress...

The real reason I am taking the time to write this review is that I have been so impressed with their reliability and professionalism. Pooch is a real business and they have gone the extra mile to make every amenity the best for the dogs! I wish my dog knew how good she has it! I travel a lot for business so it is great that I can make last minute reservations without a problem. The staff is very sweet, and I know they give my little girl lots of attention when I am away. I used to use another facility that is near downtown and thank God I switched last year. I don't have to worry anymore and I know that my dog is happy and well taken care of.

I also use their transportation service for daycare and it is wonderful! They pick her up bring her to play at Pooch and then return her home safe and tired! I use the vet that is right near their place (Family Pet) and if I have a vet appt., I just ask Pooch to take her there for me and they do! it is so convenient and it is so nice of them to do this for me without and additional charge!

Pros: Reliable, professional, clean

Posted 11/10/07

I have a dog that requires insulin 2 times per day. Pooch is one of the only places I could find that I felt at ease with leaving my dog knowing that they would be responsible enought to make sure she got her insulin at the right time 2 times per day. Most facilities that I visited prior to finding Pooch wouldn't even board her saying that they didn't want the liabiity. I understand that it is not easy look after a dog with severe medical needs such as mine, but Pooch takes great care of her and I feel very comfortable leaving her. They have done whatever it takes to get her to eat the required amount prior to her shot, and they put up with my nerosies and extensive notes every time I drop her off. I know they are not vets or vet techs there, but they really do a great job and I TRUST them! I can FINALLY go on vacation and not have to worry about my little pup! They are really busy all of the time, so you can be sure that if they taking the time to look after my dog and her medical needs, they are sure to be taking great care of the others as well. Oh, and one more thing...if you call them when you are away and ask for an update they are always really great about getting back in touch with me.

Pros: Attentive and Experienced Staff. Very, very nice accommodations.

Posted 11/09/07

I thought this luxury hotel would be a great plae to board my dog while traveling. I placed him there for daycare for a week or so before trying the boarding and all seemd good. When I left him in their care, he had a lightweight bandage on his foot to prevent him from chewing on a small skin tag.. All they had to do was change the bandage if it got wet. When I returned after 4 days, my dog's foot was swollen 3 times the normal size. He was limping terribly & couldn't even walk on it! A new bandage had been placed on his foot and it was too tight,cutting off his circulation. As a result he began chewing and licking his toes and a secondary infection set in. When i got him home, he wouldn't even let me touch his foot. I took him to the vet they said that he came close to losing his foot due to lack of circulation and self induced trauma. Yet no one noticed it or told me about it. How could they not have observed this behavior or noticed the foot swelling? This may appear luxury but the staff is clearly not paying attention to the dogs.

Pros: Beautiful facility, indoors

Cons: Inattentive staff,

Posted 11/06/07

My cockapoo Charlie has been going to Pooch for the past year and we couldn't be happier. We use their pickup and dropoff service so we don't have to drive, which is the best, and he is always so happy when they come to get him and so tired when they bring him home! It's so obvious that all of the staff love dogs and care so much about giving each dog care and attention while they are away from their parents. The facility itself is spotless and they split small and large dogs. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

Pros: Pickup/dropoff service, great staff, spotless facility

Cons: No grooming service (only bathing)

Posted 10/02/07

I can't say enough good things about Pooch. My two dogs, Sammy and Tobey, go to Pooch a few times a week. Tobey is shy and has a difficult time with new people, but when we get to Pooch, he wags his tail when he sees the staff. They are so attentive and work with the special needs of each dog in their care. I have boarded Tobey and Sammy here a few times, and I have complete peace of mind while I am away, knowing that they are truly being well-cared for, given tons of play time and lots of personal attention. Thank you, Robin and all the staff at Pooch for everything!
L. Moser, Sammy & Tobey

Pros: Prompt, efficient service; attentive and friendly staff

Cons: None

Posted 09/24/07

Hate leaving your dog with strangers? Can't stand to think of being away from your best friend? Then Pooch is for you! I have boarded my dogs at a few different places in Chicago and Pooch is hands-down the best. Superior cleanliness. Excellent service. Amazing amenities. Phenomenal staff. THEY LOVE DOGS!

Pros: They Love Dogs!; Cleanliness; Amazing Staff; Parking

Posted 09/22/07

I send Charlie to Pooch for daycare Monday-Friday. He LOVES going and cannot wait for the driver to pick him up everyday. I used another downtown service last year and had to make a change due to reliability issues. Pooch is super reliable and I love the fact that he comes home on time and is tired and happy. He's been playing in their pool all summer. Charlie is bummed when Sat and Sun are here...no Pooch on the weekends...he's just stuck at home with boring mom and dad!

Posted 09/19/07

We boarded our two pomeranians over the Labor day weekend at Pooch Chicago. We were so impressed by how well cared for they were! Pooch is super clean, and more luxurious than the hotel me and my boyrfriend stayed in. They also allowed us to call in to check on the dogs and we always got an update on how they were. We were really happy with the service Jimmy and Johnny received.

Pros: service, luxurious facility, great care, super clean

Cons: a little pricey

Posted 09/19/07

First of all on the web site there are plush cushions for my dog to sleep on, however it was just a big empty glass kennel. I had the "Jr. suite" and paid for it. I asked to see what it looked like and they showed me a picture that definately did not resemble the web site picture. The girl at the front desk was very cold and it did'nt seem like they even wanted to explain how he behaved, if he played with the other dogs, nothing! On top of it after we got our dog home he had a very bad cold! For an exclusive place like this you would not expect that. The motto "WE LOVE DOGS" I think it should be "WE LOVE MONEY"! I was not impressed and would not take my dog there again.

Pros: Nice decor

Cons: don't get what you pay for

Posted 09/17/07

I have been really impressed with Pooch's "how can I help you" attitude. They have bailed me and my dog out in a pinch several times. For example, last week I was stuck out of town due to the "big storm' and they want to my house to get my dog so that he didn' t have to go hungry and stay at home alone. Thank God for their kindness! Everyone their is very knowlegeable and they just love dogs!

Pros: Care, "they go the extra mile".

Posted 08/28/07

I boarded my dog for the first time last weekend and was so nervous! The staff made me feel very welcome and spent lots of time answering all of my questions. I was nervous all weekend but when I arrived back to find my pup happy and healthy I felt so much better. My dog didn't even want to leave she had so much fun. I want to thank you ladies for taking such excellent care of my little princess. It is a little pricey but worth the peace of mind.

Pros: Excellent care, patient staff, great location, parking

Posted 08/27/07

I boarded my dog at Pooch Chicago and my dog was not well cared for. When I picked her up at the appointed time she was wet and and stunk of urine. One of the staff said I "might want to give her a bath". My poor pup was obviously sitting in her own urine for some time. I will NEVER, NEVER take my dog to Pooch Chicago again. Forget the hip/upscale image, its just a marketing ploy. Quality care is the most important thing, not a fancy lobby.

Pros: Makes pet owners look trendy

Cons: Neglectfull of dogs needs

Posted 08/27/07

I have found the best doggy daycare for my sheep dog. Max just loves going and comes home happy and best of all tired. I have always had great treatment from the staff and they cater to all my needs (noon time feedings, special meds, etc) If you are looking for a great doggy daycare check them out!

Posted 08/27/07

We've been taking our dog, Mike, to Pooch since they opened their doors and we couldn't be happier! Although he is a big German Shepherd, he is an even bigger baby and we've had trouble in the past finding a place to board where his unique sensitivities (e.g, separation anxiety, sensitive stomach) were appreciated. Now, he comes home from his "vacations" at Pooch happy, well-rested, and well-groomed and with none of the side-effects we've experienced elsewhere. When we must be away, it is comforting to know that our "baby" is in such good hands. I doubt that you could find a more state-of-the-art facility or a more accomodating staff anywhere in Chicago. Thanks Pooch!

Posted 07/24/07

What a horrible experience I had at this facility. When I walked through the door and asked for information a very tall blonde women who I assume is the owner or manager simply threw me a pamphlet and rolled her eyes! Thats it! She simply rolled her eyes and never said a word to me, not to mention there were FOUR people just standing there going about their gossip not giving a care that I needed help.

Pros: Clean

Cons: Rude staff

Posted 07/21/07

Thank you Pooch making the lives of both Polly and her owners that much better! Seriously, every time we can't get home right after work - or, if the dog has just been acting really squirrelly - we take her to Pooch. She always comes home happy and tired! It's so funny - once she gets in the car she "talks" and wags her tail for a few minutes and then passes out for a few hours. Before we go to Pooch in the morning, we let the dog know where she's going and she gets equally as excited. And, when we pull up to the building, we have to make sure the car windows are up so she doesn't try to jump. I'm not joking! The building is awesome, the staff friendly, and when we get her bathed/groomed/massaged she always comes out looking/smelling unbelievable. Lastly, as the last reviewer noted, we believe Pooch was instrumental in making our dog so sociable as we have taken her to Pooch since she was a pup. Thank you again and see you soon!

Pros: Location, Building, Staff, Pet Services, Everything

Cons: I can't imagine there being a con

Posted 06/30/07

My husband and I can't say enough great things about this place! Our dog used to be so shy and uscocialized and now he is outgoing and great around other dogs and people. Robin and her staff have really gone the extra mile to make our experience a great one! We now have a happy, normal dog that we can confidently take to the dog park. We are so happy to have you all spend the day with our pup why we are at work all day.

Pros: quality care, patience with the dogs

Posted 06/22/07

They lost my dogs collar and tags.....and blamed it on me. Spent 2 days running around replacing everything and called to set up daycare and she informed me coldly I should take my business elsewhere. I will darling, and so will everybody else if you don't get your head around the fact that your custoners matter. I had been a customer for 2 years. Shame on you for being so ungracious and so ignorant. She had a wonderful opportunity to turn around a glitch in your service. A brighter business person would have thought it most appropriate to thank me for having come back and I would have appreciated it. She however, managed to elevate what was a simple mistake into so much negativity. Shame on her for behaving this way to your good customers. . FYI I have gone elsewhere and am very happy to give my money to people who love dogs and their customers.

Pros: Convenient and spacious

Cons: Owner is most ungracious and showed poor judgement

Posted 06/15/07

I am very particular because my 2 dogs are my kids. I have now used Pooch 7 times and have had been very pleased with everything. Compared to my experiences eleswhere this place is the real deal - very focused on providing the best care possible. Very professional. Exceptionally clean. Worth the try - I thank my neighbor Judy for the recommendation. A+

Pros: very clean and safe. seems very professional and the employees take pride in it

Posted 05/15/07

My Silky Terrier has stayed at Pooch a few times now, and he always seems to have a great time! He's very social, and gets so excited when he sees the people or the dogs at Pooch.

We were amazed at the facility. It looks like a swanky human hotel - not a doggie one! I was very impressed by how clean the facility is, and found the front desk people and Robin to be very friendly and nice. They were willing to give us email updates about how our baby was doing, and this peace of mind was worth the extra money.

Pros: Gorgeous facility, clean, friendly, my dog loves it

Cons: a little expensive, not convenient (I live in Streeterville)

Posted 04/23/07

My dog stayed at the Pooch Hotel for the second time over spring break. He seemed happy when I picked him up, however there were a few things that just didn't sit well with me. First, I had called and left a message during our vacation asking how our dog was doing. Got a call back from the owner. I had to then repeat that I was calling to find out how my dog was doing, and she said "Fine". That's it. Nothing more than "fine". At least give me a little something! Does he seem happy? Is he enjoying playing with the other dogs? Learn the fine art of conversation!! Secondly, when I picked him up I asked the manager at the front desk if she could have someone take him out before they brought him down, since it was a Friday nite and we had a long drive home in traffic. She assured me that he probably had just gone out. When we got home 35 minutes later, my little dog peed for about two minutes straight. He obviously had not been out in hours. Lastly, and the thing that bothered me the most, was that when the owner brought my dog down, we met her in the vestibule and she handed me the leash without saying a word. Not a "thank you" or a "see you next time" - NOTHING. My dog seemed very happy, and I would have been too, all I needed was a little friendliness from the owner and I would have left with a very positive feeling instead of the negative one that I felt on the way home.

Posted 04/23/07