I love this place! They have $33 per day sitting from 7am to 7pm close, which I think may be the cheapest in the city. Although the actual size of the rooms are small, they seem to manage very well! They also have a doggie cam setup so you can watch your pup play from your phone/desktop while away! The workers here are always SO accommodating and even since moving down to Queen Village we still bring our pup here! read more

The Ruff Life - Ruff report - Pet Sitting Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

This is easily the best daycare I have ever been to. The people are so nice and my terrier mix (splinter) always has a great time. For the mere price of $30 (less if you buy a pack of passes), your pooch will get a full day of daycare (as long as 7 am-7 pm during the week) including a personal walk at lunch and a REPORT CARD telling you who he played with and how he did during the day, it's so awesome! They also have a webcam, which generally runs, but not always, and they make some nice posts to facebook and instagram, but the report card is my favorite thing. If you are enrolled in daycare, they also offer boarding, and are generally pretty flexible and accommodating, though space is definitely limited. I highly recommend Ruff Life. I know that dog school has like 5 locations and makes a nice instagram feed, but the friendliness and flexibility of the ruff life staff really sets them apart. They always recognize me (and splinter) and dropping off and picking up is so seamless. read more

The Ruff Life - The chill dogs hang out under the desk, shout-outs to my man Splinter (Left). - Pet Sitting Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

See all

I had my beautiful golden doodle groomed. The groomer shaved him completely and the groomer didn't notify me that she was going to shave him completely. I was horrified when I saw him. I was quoted $200.00 and ended up paying $305.00. I would not recommend them. the temperature is in the teens and I can't let him out because without his fur It's too cold. I will never use them again. He wasn't matted too much. read more

I take my dog here occasionally so he can play. I dont even need doggy daycare but love how excited my little guy gets every time he goes to "school". Super nice staff and great prices. They have theme days and post all the pics. Love it there. read more

The Ruff Life - Pet Sitting Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

My super sweet dog went here for several months until another dog bit her. The only reason I even knew about the incident was because it happened right when we were picking her up. The staff seemed completely unbothered by it, but my dog was terrified, so we rushed her home. I called the next day to see what measures were being taken to ensure my pup's safety. The answer was absolutely none. A couple days later I sent a polite email expressing my disappointment in the staffs interest in mitigating this problem. I also included a picture of my dogs wound. They responded basically by saying it's not a big deal and they did everything right. So if you send your dog here, just be aware they've prioritized an aggressive dog over a gentle one AT LEAST once. They do not protect or advocate for the dogs. read more

My dog absolutely loves Ruff Life. Jackie and her staff do a wonderful job. They provide both daycare and overnight, and should start opening on weekends in the spring. read more

The Ruff Life - Sheldon needs a break from all playing at The Ruff Life - Pet Sitting Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Back in January we began searching for a new daycare for our 2 year old Havanese Junior. Like most doggie parents, Junior is our son and finding and vetting the right daycare for him was not a decision entered into lightly. The previous daycare was great and helped us so much when we first got the little guy. But we eventually decided to make a change. Yelp was a great start! I found The Ruff Life and read a number of very good reviews. I decided to check it out myself. So glad I didn't hesitate. Once there, the 2 staff there (Jackie and another very cool girl) were wonderful. They spoke with me at length and showed me around. The place was spotless, bright and got plenty of sunlight. It also smelled GREAT! They told me that every day, they take the dogs outside for a walk to make sure that they get some fresh air... seriously, how cool is that?! They are also open 7a-7p and have weekend hours, outstanding! We scheduled a "pre-visit", aka a chance for us to bring Junior by for about 30 minutes before the other dogs were dropped off that morning. It was their policy and we loved it as it gave is a chance to see first hand whether Junior liked the place or not. That day I picked him up and actually received a report card about his day! It told me about the walk, the time and whether he did #1 &/or #2, and even which other dogs he played and cuddled with. This also helped us to learn some of the other dogs' names. It even told us whether he was social, talkative Etc...to illustrate his mood that day. He's been a Ruff Lifer ever since! As a business owner, I am keenly aware of the little things about another business's operation. I cannot recommend this one more highly or more happily. read more

I just started taking my 8 month old Shiba to Ruff Life and after a few visits I can already tell he really enjoys his time there; he starts excitedly pulling at the leash when we get to the front door of the daycare. But in case you have any doubts about if your pup is having a good time or not, there is a daily webcam that allows you to check in on your pup to see what he/she is up to. They have convenient hours, 7am to 7pm. Unfortunately my work schedule varies day to day and sometimes I don't get out early enough to be able to pick up my dog at this daycare before they close, so I end up having to take him to a closer daycare to my work or no daycare at all. He's definitely the most well behaved after a day of daycare, though! This place is open play all day so there's no mandatory "crate time". I love this because my pup gets physical+mental stimulation all day which means I bring home a tired well-behaved pup. In addition, they also include a midday walk for some fresh air and a time to potty outside. They keep the daycare area very clean. You can see on the webcam that they will immediately clean up any pee/poo/etc so the dogs always have a clean area to romp around in. I love that they send the dogs home with a "report card" that will tell you what time their walk was, if they went pee, poo or both, and their behavior that day. This is extremely helpful because then I know approximately what time I should be taking my pup out again for a pee/poo walk. There's no food/toys for daycare -- which, in my opinion, is for the best as those things can start fights among dogs. Getting my dog set up here was very easy and seamless, and drop-off/pick-up has been extremely quick and easy. read more

My girlfriend leaves her dachsund Cooper here around three times a week and she also has boarded Cooper over the weekend. Cooper is very jumpy and nervous, and yet at The Ruff Life he is completely comfortable and very happy. Claire the owner is always ultra-responsive and truly cares about the dogs. We always receive a nice report at the end of the day, and check in regularly on the webcam to see Cooper playing and lounging about just like he's at home. This really is a great place, and the fact that's it's a local business means you get really personalized service and your pup gets the attention they deserve. If 6 stars were possible, Ruff Life would have it! read more

I could not have stumbled upon a more caring, more loving pack of caretakers for my cocker spaniel pup, Lucy. I loved being able to see Lucy on the web cam playing with her friends, getting cuddles from staff, and of course jumping up in the staff chair whenever she pleased. Jackie and her crew always kept tabs on who Lucy played with and gave a report at the end of the day. The facility was clean and spacious (and includes a downstairs area for when there's overflow). All of the dogs accepted into the program were playful and friendly. I never had to worry about Lucy once, because she was in the best care. Sadly, we moved and Lucy isn't attending Ruff Life anymore--and I know she misses her friends. Ruff Life is irreplaceable! read more

I have an old Irish Setter. She gets along with EVERY dog on earth. But mostly she just wants to sleep, and receive love:) Maybe play a little fetch. We visit Ruff Life as a "treat" and when hosting events at home. I love the convenience of Ruff Life, and the great customer service. They treat me like a personal friend, and my dog like one of their own. I know that first and foremost she is kept safe. As an owner who has had the terrifying experience of dealing with severe puncture wounds resulting from an attack (from a dog who has supposedly NEVER done that before) at another location, I trust the judgement of the owners and staff to take care of my girl. I read some of the other reviews from owners of "spirited" puppies, and wanted to offer another perspective. I know that one of the owners is/was a vet tech. That makes me feel that much safer. Group-setting, doggie daycare isn't for every dog. And, this isn't a training facility. read more

We loved sending our dog here. He has separation anxiety and he did not mind spending the day here at all. They post a lot of pictures and videos on instagram and the staff is awesome. read more

We love this business! Claire and her husband are so accomodating. They have taken care of our cat for the past year and we can ALWAYS count on them to be there when we need them. They are loving, caring and dependable. We are updated frequently with texts and pictures of our cat while we are gone which makes us feel very comfortable. It is a relief to know that our cat is safe and happy in their care. Thank you so very much for everything! Happy parents of P'nut, Vincent and Claudia read more

The Ruff Life is the ONLY doggy hotel I will use to watch my little Shi Shi. I've been a client here for over three years and their customer service has always been great but this last experience really took the cake. I was out of the country for 3 weeks and my friend was supposed to watch my dog. Long story short my friend could not and The Ruff Life quickly and easily accommodated my lil Shi Shi for 3 weeks. They provided her with food and even went to buy her special eye drops. When my dog got anxiety and her stomach started hurting they kept me updated with emails on her status. I love how they have the 24 HR camera so I can just log on and see how my dog is doing. They are the best dog hotel/day care in Philadelphia and they have a loyal customer for life. Thanks again Jackie and your team for all you do! read more

My dog and I had a horrible and shocking experience here. My dog has been going to The Ruff Life for 2 months and we had no problems for a while. However Clair (the owner) called me one day to tell me that my dog is no longer welcome at this daycare. My dog is a small morkie who has been attending daycare with no problem his whole life. He is actually one of the most behaved dogs in all daycares. And even at the ruff life his reports were always great. One day when Clair was taking him for a walk, he fought with another dog and bit him. For some reason Clair forgot that I gave her strict instructions not to put my dog in situations where he is confronted with a big dog. The reason we chose the Ruff life was because they separate big and small dogs. But I guess even though I pay $5 extra a day (5 days a week) to have private walks for my dog, they still get distracted and put my dog in harm. Moreover, when i came to pickup my dog he was locked in a kennel as if it was his fault that he was put in that situation. Another note, she did not take any accountability that my dog was at risk and that she pulled him from his neck because she didn't put his harness on when she walked him. This is a great risk for a small dog and could cause serious neck damage but I guess she does not think that is a valid enough reason to use a harness. I guess the Ruff Life just doesn't know how to respect an owner's request and work with multiple dog personalities and behaviors. Clair was very unprofessional and decided that she is "Scared" to walk my little 11 pound dog. I am not sure how any owner of a dog daycare will be scared to walk a small dog. So I recommend that you find a more realiable daycare if you can. All the webcams and glamour don't mean anything if your dog is going to be at risk. read more

We've brought our playful puppy to this daycare several times - only out of convenience and proximity to our home. The initial communications with the owner have been challenging as all questions are referred to their website - and any conversations are had via email (there's no point in calling). Our dog's 5th and final visit has left us frustrated and upset we've left him in the care of this place too long. Tucker is a 1.5 year old Glen Terrier - who looks forward to his once a week play time - so much that he drags us to the door on every walk. However - the owner called us to pick him up and not bring him back - because he was "too playful". As any parent would be - I was shocked and concerned, seeing as he plays very well with other dogs at the park and at other doggy homes - in both small and large groups. We have had no concerns about his behavior. I spoke with the owner Clair about this and asked if he'd been aggressive or attacked any other dog - and the answer was no. Just that he had too much energy for the group. He was too playful and she "couldn't handle it" - and the response to this playfulness was LOCKING HIM UP! I was very upset to learn that this is how they treat puppy behavior - caging it! I continued to learn that they "don't have space for dogs with energy"! I don't understand how they can operate a dog daycare without the ability to accommodate every dog. Having now watched the "live" webcams (which never seem to be actually live) - I see that the reason they can't handle this behavior is because it interferes with them sitting and watching tv/using their phones. On one hand I'm glad we learned of this early on and can stop bringing our pooch - but I feel bad as he really enjoys the social time during these cold months. Unless you have an older, docile dog - I would NOT recommend using the services of RuffLife. It should be advertised as a doggy nursing home rather than day care. read more

I've lived in old city for several years- and was really happy to see when this place opened up. I had a dog my first few years living here, and I had to get rid of it because there just was anywhere convenient to take her. This place is one block from the MFL 2nd street stop- so easy to get to without a car- but also located by all the historic sites so if you're stuck walking around the liberty bell for the 700th time with family/friends that are visiting, it's nice to be able drop off your dog and have night to enjoy yourself. I'm probably just partial bc I really appreciate owners who listen to customer feedback and actually use it to continually improve their business to meet the customer needs. I've only spoken to Claire a few times, but it's obvious that she cares about ever dog that in there like it's her own, and though I know she can't tell everyone yes all the time, she for sure will everything in her power to accommodate you if she can. Long story short- When it comes down to it-All that matters is knowing I'm leaving my dog in the hands of someone I can trust --and considering I can't even walk down the street in old city without someone else's dog causing problems-- it's nice to know that they willing to turn down the quick buck and keep riff-Raff out so I can vacation with one less stress- which for me- is worth a lot more than what they charge! read more

They have the most flexible hours and amazing staff! Webcams so you know what's up and can see your pup playing with all the other dogs. Strict on behavior standards but therefore I know the dogs they are safe. They walk each dog midday unlike other daycares where they go to the bathroom in the same rancid "outdoor" spot all day. They will feed your dog meals as requested and cuddle as needed. The best, just ask them as almost ALWAYS can accommodate. read more

Ruff life is hands down the best doggie daycare in the city. We have been taking our dog here 3 days a week for close to 2 years. She loves it and looks forward to each visit. Jackie and her team are excellent. Super responsive and go above and beyond to accommodate our needs. Jackie even came to let our puppy out during the day before she could start going to ruff life herself. I trust them and highly recommend to anyone looking for daycare in Philly! read more

I had a really great experience at "The Ruff Life" - and so did my dogs! I have left both of my girls with Claire for a day of fun and couldn't be happier. Both girls seems happy and exhausted when I pick them up and the building is always clean and neat. I haven't left the girls for an overnight stay yet but I plan on it! read more

I have taken my "Grandpuppy", a goldendoodle named Lacie, to the Ruff life for overnight boarding, day time dog sitting, and for grooming. I have had nothing but good experiences working with Claire and her team. They were thoughtful, caring, and made leaving her easy. I would highly recommend anyone that needed boarding for their precious bundle of fur to check them out. AND, the grooming on Lacie was by far the BEST haircut she has ever received. She is getting a little shaggy so I will be making an appointment soon! PS they also have web cams so you can check in during the day! read more

I love this place! It's convenient, they open early, and my dog gets to be active while I'm working all day. I have another dog that I know doesn't do well with other dogs, so unfortunately he has to stay home. If your looking for a great doggy daycare in the city, try them out. You won't be disappointed! read more

An enthusiastic five stars. I wouldn't board my baby (aka my little west highland terrier) anywhere except here! I've tried places from Rittenhouse to Northern Liberties, and I'm glad the search is over. This place is phenomenal. The biggest things for me are the cleanliness of the place, the attentiveness of the staff, and the very reasonable cost! My dog is happy and clean when he leaves, which is awesome. read more

Beautiful new, clean, bright space. My little bichon had a fantastic time with Claire and the other pups. The staff is amazing---caring, compassionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing the best experiences for your dog. Sending your dog to "The Ruff Life" is like sending your dog to a great doggy day camp! My dog had a great time interacting with some of the other dogs. And they even provide overnights; so if I need to be away for a few days, I know my pup will be well taken care of. So happy to have found you! My dog is too!!! read more

I would like to respond to Lana N's review as it was MY PUPPY that her dog ATTACKED and BIT as Claire was walking past us on the sidewalk. My 5 MONTH OLD PUPPY (not a "large dog" as Lana describes) and I were walking on N. 3rd St at approximately 5:00 PM we came upon Claire and the Morkie. Both dogs were on the right side of the individual walking them and the individuals were approximately two feet apart horizontally. We did not stop to chat. While passing each other the Morkie crossed both Claire and myself and attacked my puppy in the face. As both Claire and myself were trying to get the Morkie off my puppy it then bit onto her coat! My dog was sobbing while the Morkie was wildly growling and continuing to try to get to my puppy. It was such a scene that the employee from a retail store came running outside. My puppy had a one inch bite mark on her nose that was bleeding. The cut was pretty deep and we went straight to the vet where they had to clean her up and give us anti-infection pills, as the cut was THAT DEEP, and they were concerned about it healing. Claire stayed calm throughout the situation and while I was at the vet she called over offering to pay for the treatment we needed. Lana- you should be UTTERLY EMBARASSED by your review of this establishment and acknowledge the fact that your dog attacked another dog. THIS 1000% REFLECTS ON YOU AS AN OWNER. My dog will continue to be an active client at Ruff Life and I am happy that they do not allow aggressive dogs to utilize their services. read more

I was not satisfied when I took my dog to this daycare. I know that their price is low and that's really wonderful, but I'm not so sure it's worth it considering the dogs get 1 bathroom break the entire day and the "walk" they take them on is to go around the corner to Christ Church...which is about 800 feet from the premises of the store. I was disappointed to learn that this is what was considered the "stroll through old city" as they advertised on their website. II wish I had a better experience with my dog at this daycare, but sadly we won't be going back. There is not enough exercise the staff engages in with the dogs, and to have only 1 potty break through the course of the 12 hour day is not really acceptable. read more

I have taken my goldendoodle to the ruff life a few times and highly recommend it! Claire and the rest of the staff are very nice and professional! The facility is very clean and has various areas for the dogs to play. They also have weekend hours which is a plus! read more

I never write reviews, but I wanted to get the word out to all dog owners that The Ruff Life is the best doggie daycare ever! I get to see my dog, Lester, having a great time on the Webcam whenever I want, and the owner also takes photos to show me when I pick him up. Lester has separation anxiety, so I was worried that he would be miserable and staring at the door the whole time, but by the second day, he wasn't even that excited to see me when I picked him up. I wouldn't leave my furry son with anyone but Claire at The Ruff Life! read more

Stopped by to see the new place and got a tour from the owner. If they are as friendly with dogs as they are with humans they will do really well. The place was super new and very clean. I'm currently looking at old city apartments and I'm really glad that there is a place like this down there. read more

Ruff Life was the highlight of my pup's week!! He would know from about a block away when it was a Ruff Life day and would basically drag me to the front door. Even when we would walk by on the weekend, he would sit on the front step until he realized that he wasn't going there that day. It was great being able to watch him having a good time on the webcam and gave me peace of mind knowing that he enjoyed himself. All of the employees treated him just as I would have hoped. The best part about it, how wiped out he was when he got home. Perfect for those nights that you have plans and can't walk your canine friend around for an hour to wear him/her out. Wish there was a Ruff Life where I recently moved to, but I'll have to wake up earlier and take him over there sometime soon to treat him. read more

I cannot rave enough about our experience with The Ruff Life! We have a 4 year old female shih tzu, and as she is our only dog we absolutely love having the Ruff Life close by to drop her off for day care to keep her socialized. They are extremely accommodating- I am a "last minute" person, and on numerous occasions I have texted them (so simple!) to fit my dog in for last minute day care, boarding, grooming, etc and she has never been turned away and is usually taken right away. I love that I can drop her off for a bath/haircut and she can stay at daycare before and after so you can still do your running around. I know when I leave Sox, she is safe and happy and if you need proof you can just watch on the live stream! I have personally dealt with Claire on numerous occasions, and you can tell she is a true dog lover and is passionate about her business. Their facility is very clean and top notch, and reasonably priced as well. Highly recommended! read more

I had a VERY DISAPPOINTING experience with Ruff Life. I had gotten an unprofessional, unwelcoming, sort of cavalier vibe from the people there from the first time I wandered in to ask about some information. However, due to its location and proximity to my home... and my interest in giving my dog some social time during the winter... I ignored my instincts and starting bringing him there anyway. My dog has attended day care here multiple times with no problems. He's a nearly 2 year old old medium sized terrier and he's very playful. I received several reports from Ruff Life of his playful demeaner and how well he plays with all the other dogs. Then all of a sudden I dropped him off a two weeks ago and the owner, Claire, called me immediately after dropping him off (like 5 minutes literally) telling me he had to leave because he was "acting up". Now I realize it may sound like I'm just a defensive doggy owner, but truthfully my dog never had any trouble with other dogs before in the entire year and a half I've owned him. We go to the park nearly every day and he plays just fine with the other dogs, big and small. He is admittedly very energetic, but he has NEVER EVER gotten in a fight with another dog before. He is not one of those yappy, anti-social typed dogs who cannot be around other dogs for fear of a problem. We've left him with dog sitters that have their own dogs too... and never gotten anything but great feedback afterwards. That said... as soon as I went to pick up my dog on this day two weeks ago, I spoke with Claire and we watched my dog together play with the other dogs. Guess what...HE WAS 100% FINE...so she let him stay. He attended daycare again the week after that... got a great report when I picked him up. I didn't see Claire there this day... which I'm thinking may have had something to do with this. Finally... today... 20 minutes after dropping off my dog... I get another call from Claire telling me my dog is 'acting out' again and that he is no longer welcome at Ruff Life. I was not there so I can only go off of my experiences every day with my dog and my observations of his interactions with other dogs on a regular basis... however something just doesn't seem right to me. Claire seems very afraid of running a dog day care, seems like she does not have any expert experience or any dog training skills. Instead of controlling the situation of having 10 plus dogs in the same room, she just seems to panic. I believe the days my dog had good experiences at Ruff Life were the days other employees were there to keep watch over the dogs and make sure they all behave in a group. I can't prove this... but I know I didn't see Claire there when I dropped off or picked up my dog those days. Bottom line... even if my dog were allowed back at Ruff Life... I would not have taken him back after this nonsense. I should have listened to my own initial instincts and saved the money I spent on this place in the first place. So needless to say my dog and I will be going elsewhere with our business and I think you should too. read more