10 tips to Choose a Dog Daycare

1 –  Are the staff qualified to look after dogs? Are they real dog lovers?

When looking for a facility, you might just do a search from your computer but word of mouth is also a very good way to find a good reliable service.

There are no special qualifications needed to open a dog daycare center. But the staff should be experienced with handling dogs, dog’s body language and first aid. They also should keep the facility organized safe and clean. This is something you will be able to pick up as you are visiting the facility and talking to the manager.

Dealing with dogs all day long is like teaching or baby sitting kids. You have to love what you do. The staff must also be dog lovers. It has to be more than just a job for them.

2 – Are they requiring vaccination and interview you about your dog’s habits and personality.

Most centers will ask you to fill up a form so they can get to know your dog better. This is not just about personality but also medication, allergies and any information that is relevant to the safety of your dog. Including the easiest and fastest way to reach you in case of emergency.

3 – Can you ask questions – Are you satisfied with the answers.

Leaving your dog in a doggy care is a a great way for your dog to be socialized, get some exercise and play time while you work. It is important that you have also have peace of mind, get your questions answered and feel safe and comfortable leaving your dog in the care of someone else.

4 – Are the dogs always supervised? -

Especially during play time some dogs can play rough and human have to monitor play activities and know when to stop the play before things get out of hands. Is there enough staff on hand? Is the dogs’s safety the main focus?
Safety always come first. Some centers can have up to 50 dogs and only a couple of humans to supervise. A dozen of dogs per group with at least 1 human supervisor is a good match.

6 – Is there break/nap time schedule thorughout the day?

This is mainly for puppies. They can play and play until they dropped. Some dogs when in the company of other dogs never stop and stay stimulated for the whole day. It is important to have breaks time during the day so the dogs can sleep and relax. Dogs are not meant to be busy all day. This is often when things could get out of hands. Tired puppies and dogs can get grumpy and start a fight.

7 – Medication and special needs

Should your dog require medication or special attention can the staff provide it? If your dog is a little shy or anxious will he get the care and attention she needs?

8 – Are the dogs match in size and age

Even though I am a big advocate to have little dogs playing with big dogs (under supervision of course), in a dog care setting, it is better to have different groups with size and age in mind. Sometimes even breeds. All dogs do not play the same way and do not have the same temperament. Border Collies are more intense than any other dogs and can get a little bossy while Shepherd can get very vocals and upset other dogs (and bossy as well). Malamutes or Newfoundland are more laid back while Jack Russells might be happy just running after a  ball or play Frisbee.

9 – Is there activities plan for the dogs through the day or are they just gathered in a room and left on their own

Some centers have a webcam and can send you video or pictures to your email address. So you get to observe how your dog behave when you are not around. it is a neat service than gives you a look in the daily activities and can  give you insights about your dog.

10 – Is there a quiet room

Again it goes back to the safety and comfort of your dog. Beside nap time there are dogs than need to be quiet in a separate room. Now if your dog is more on the shy side, a little anxious it is best to look for a small center that can caterer to her needs. But all doggie care should provide a quiet room or a place where dogs can rest and relax.

At the end of the day your dog will be happy to see you and will quickly fall asleep in your car. The average exercise and stimulation is higher than a usual day. Which is why you may not have to take your dog every day. Chances are the next day he will sleep most of the day. You are the judge. it depends on your dog needs and personality, the facility and your budget. In the end you will have a better balanced and well behaved dog. And… you will also feel more relax.