Questions & Answers
Where is Pension Milou Located?
Pension Milou is located just above Menton and therefore within easy reach of Monaco. However I care from dogs from Nice, St. Paul de Vence and beyond.
Why is Pension Milou so special?
Pension Milou is literally a 'Home from Home' for your dog. Freedom above all. At Pension Milou your dog can loll about on a sofa all day, run about the garden playing with other dogs, do as he wishes. The aim is to make your dog's stay here as much like home as possible. I like to feel there is an easy and natural transition from your home to Pension Milou and vice versa.
Can I come and visit Pension Milou and look around?
Absolutely! In fact, I don't take a dog without seeing him or her first. The initial visit to Pension Milou gives you the opportunity to look around, see other dogs currently 'en pension' and it gives me the chance to get to know your dog and note his requirements. It is also helpful to your dog because when you eventually drop him off for his holiday, he will know me and know the house and garden and he’ll be comfortable and settle in really quickly.
Do you take all breeds of dog?
No. Because all the dogs live and sleep together, the priority has to be the temperament of the dog. For this reason, some of the guarding breeds and also certain terriers I wouldn't consider. Safety of each dog is paramount. Adult male dogs must be castrated.
How do I know my dog will be properly cared for?
Above all, I have a great love for dogs. I have 35 years experience looking after dogs - as a top breeder of Old English Sheepdogs in England where I cared for, bred and exhibited dogs for 20 years. I was also an International judge of Old English Sheepdogs and have written many articles on dogs and their care. I have also owned West Highland White terriers, Shih-tzus and as a child had Spaniels and Poodles. I have a good 'eye' for a dog so if your dog was even slightly off-colour, he or she would go to the vet immediately if I felt it was something that needed professional attention. Eyes and ears are examined every day and treated if necessary and your dog will be regularly groomed. Pension Milou is recommended by many many vets in the area, from Menton to Monaco to Nice and beyond. Also by several Salons de Toilettage. You can also read recommendations by clients under Testimonials. Your dog will live with me, share my life and will be treated as I treat my own dogs - with love. Rest assured, if your dog is used to sitting on your lap whilst you watch television, he'll let me know it - and that's where he or she will be!
Where will my dog sleep?
Where he wishes. Mostly the small dogs sleep in my bedroom and the bigger ones in the living room, study, where they wish but it's not unheard of for a big dog to find his or her way into my bedroom if that's what he's used to!
What will my dog eat? How many times a day will you feed him?
Your dog will eat whatever he is used to. Please bring his food with you. Your dogs dietary requirements will be noted when you come for the initial visit. Dogs are normally fed twice a day according to your instructions. All dogs get biscuit treats at bedtime!
What happens if my dog gets sick?
He will be taken to his own vet, if not too far away, and if not will visit my nearest veterinary surgery. At the initial visit, I will take details of your vet's name, address and phone number in case my vet needed to consult with him.
Do you accept puppies?
Yes, but please ring or email me to discuss. There will be a higher charge for puppies.
Do you give special care to older dogs?
Yes, I love looking after older dogs provided they are able to get up and down the steps (easy steps) that lead from the terrace down to the large garden area. I will note any special care needed when you come for the initial visit and all medication will be given as per instructions and scrupulously adhered to.
How secure is your fencing?
The fencing is totally secure - strong wire, securely fixed to metal posts embedded in concrete with the portion of fencing, where it touches the ground, securely cemented in. The best doggy-diggers in the world can't get below the fence and it's too high for jumpers.
Can I bring my dog's toys when he comes to stay?
Yes, but don't bring any toys that are absolutely precious. At some point another dog is likely to play with them and there is no guarantee they will remain in one piece! There are always various toys lying about plus tennis balls and lots of Nylabones (these are indestructible bones from America). The dogs don't argue over Nylabones as they might over edible chewy bones. Many dogs who are used to toys at home, ignore them here because there are too many other distractions.
How many dogs do you care for at Pension Milou?
Maximum of 9 dogs for which I am officially licenced. In addition
I have two dogs of my own: Milou (American cocker) and Flavia
(Labrador) a retired guide-dog for the blind. Milou, for whom
the Pension is named, and Flavia are both 13 years old.
What do I need to bring with me when my dog comes to stay?
Please bring with you: vaccination certificate (passport), dog bed (or cushion or an old pullover so he or she feels at home), dog food (that you regularly feed), and any medication.
How much will it cost?
See Cost.