Pawful Delight at Woodbridge Indoor Dog Park

Editor's Note: This week's Woodbridge Wish List written by guest contributor and pet enthusiast Karen Derrico.

From breed meet-ups to dog park play days and a fido family reunion, Dogtopia of Woodbridge, a dog day care and boarding facility, is a favorite among local dogs owners.

Headquartered in Rockville, MD, Dogtopia is a nationwide franchise with approximately 20 locations around the country. The Woodbridge location, headed by lifelong animal lover, Amber Sutton, recently celebrated its two year anniversary this August.

Somewhat fashioned after the human daycare concept, Dogtopia provides a nurturing, fun environment that makes tails start wagging long before they reach the front door.

"We always hear from clients how their dogs get so excited when they know they're coming here," said Sutton. Some dogs respond instantly to the word "Dogtopia" while others wag and whine as they recognize the familiar route from the car window.

A typical Dogtopia day starts with playtime. Dogs are separated into two play areas based on size, temperament and play style. From drop off until noon dogs play ball, romp, get belly rubs and splash in one of the outdoor baby pools, weather permitting.

During winter months, dogs have fun romping outside in the snow or staying cozy inside. After noon is nap time, it's lights out, soft music on and all heads and tails down followed by another playtime.

All dogs are pre-screened for behavioral issues and to determine which play group they are best suited for.

Much like a first day of kindergarten, dogs go home with a "report card" describing their activities for their first visit. A popular Dogtopia feature is the webcam where curious dog parents can view their dogs playing live online at anytime during the day. 

"It's amazing to see the transformation of dogs who were initially shy and timid," said Sutton. "My favorite conversation is to talk with clients who tell me how Dotgopia helped their dogs become more social in public."

In addition to daycare services, Dogtopia also offers a self-service dog wash, grooming as well as individual and group obedience training through a local dog trainer.

Breed "meet-ups" attract enthusiasts from all around who congregate for scheduled breed-specific meet-ups, including Italian Greyhounds, Schnauzers and Papillions.

"The most popular is the Labrador meet-up, the more space and the more balls, the better," said Sutton. There is no cost for breed meet-ups.

The ever-popular Dog Park Day is held on the last Sunday of every month. Much like the daycare, dogs are separated into two playgroups based on size.

The average turnout is typically between 50-70 dogs that have the run of the 3,000 square-foot indoor area. Balls, toys, water, clean up supplies and staff supervision are provided.

Among the interesting events that have taken place, one in particular stands out in Sutton's memory. Two mixed breed dogs, Bella and Tucker, came into Dogtopia within a week of one other were later discovered to be litter mates after their moms ended up comparing notes one day in the lobby during pick up time.

Both people and dogs ended up arranging get-togethers until Bella's mom, a Marine, was deployed to Hawaii a few months ago.

"I was so worried when Bella moved that Tucker wouldn't make any new friends," said Amanda Cullen, who used to bring Tucker daily until a job change moved her to Arlington. "We still make the drive down one day a week, he loves it so much and has made new friends, but still misses Bella."

Tucker and Bella are among many rescued dogs that frequent Dogtopia. The company strongly encourages dog adoption and offers the first day free to all rescued or adopted dogs. Sutton's own dog, Zeke, is a rescued Australian Shepherd mix accompanies her to work each day.

Each year Sutton holds a food drive to benefit Washington Animal Rescue League asking clients to bring in dog and cat goodies that are donated to the shelter. Every year all Dogtopias participate in a dog wash fundraiser to benefit their K-9 Support Charity, which sends care packages to working dogs overseas.

Last year, Woodbridge Dogtopia selected a local beneficiary, the Prince William County K-9 Unit for their fundrasier. As a result, the K-9 unit was able to purchase special infrared tracking devices for their seven handlers, ultimately resulting in a suspect being apprehended via a helicopter.

One of the K-9 officers, a German Shepherd named Ottie, is a frequent visitor at Dogtopia and participates in the dog wash fundraiser.

Rates for Dogtopia's services can be found online.