Individuals who have adopted puppies often do so because they have ample space in their homes and abundant affection to give. Nonetheless, it can be challenging to convey to their furry companions the necessity of staying home alone during workdays. Despite efforts to train the pet for solo time and even considering the addition of another dog for companionship, there may be lingering doubts about whether these measures suffice. In such cases, one might contemplate whether enrolling their pet in puppy day care is a viable alternative.
What Is Dog Day Care?
Dog day care offers a parallel to child day care services, providing a location where puppies can be left during the day to receive care in the absence of their owners. These establishments typically feature organized activities, periods for unrestricted play, and tranquil zones for restful naps. They differ from pet sitting, where an individual may supervise just one dog or a small collection of pets either at the owner’s residence or their own, and from kennel boarding, which is often an overnight service utilized during vacations or home renovations.
Puppy Day Care: What to Look For
When considering a day care for a pet, even for just a few hours, it’s crucial to ensure that it is a suitable environment. Opt for facilities that provide an initial assessment. This allows owners to observe their pets interacting with the staff and other dogs, ensuring there is ample space for play and verifying the cleanliness of the premises.
It is also wise to inquire about the caretakers who will be overseeing the pets. A responsible “pack leader” and their assistants should be present to manage and socialize with the animals. A favorable human-to-dog ratio is essential, with The Bark recommending no more than one adult for every ten to fifteen dogs, or even one to five if feasible.
How to Prepare Your Dog for the First Day
Prior to a dog’s first day at day care, they should be sufficiently trained to respond to commands. Some centers may request evidence of obedience training. It is also common for day cares to require confirmation that the dog has received essential vaccinations from a veterinarian. An initial assessment can help the dog acclimate to the new setting, so extensive preparation isn’t necessary. However, if possible, starting with half-days can ease the transition, demonstrating to the dog that their owner will return. This can be particularly beneficial for young puppies prone to separation anxiety or dogs previously in shelters who may be anxious in unfamiliar environments. Spending extra time in the morning can also help the dog settle in more comfortably.
What Should You Expect?
A primary benefit of doggy day care is the opportunity for pets to socialize and expend energy. Upon collection, owners should expect to find their dogs content, healthy, and likely tired from the day’s activities. Each facility may offer different schedules, with some providing continuous free play while others include structured activities. Owners should ask for, or expect, a daily report on their dog’s experiences, and some day cares may even send mid-day photos of the pets at play.
Keeping Your Dog Safe at Dog Day Care
Day care staff should provide updates on the dog’s day, highlighting any notable interactions or the need for separation. A stringent policy for sick pets to stay home is crucial to prevent the spread of illnesses like kennel cough, and owners should be promptly informed if any health issues arise. Knowing that the day care has insurance and is bonded is important for peace of mind, as this ensures that owners won’t be liable for medical expenses or property damage in case of accidents. Facilities with video monitoring are highly desirable, although not mandatory.
Ultimately, owners should feel at ease knowing that their pets will likely enjoy their time at puppy day care, and it can be a beneficial experience for both the pets and their owners.
