Dog Day Care

What Is Dog Day Care?

There was a time when dogs were either left tied up in the yard or packed into a cage all day when their owners didn't feel they could leave their pets running the house freely in their absence. If you've ever come home from work to an anxious pup who has left a trail of destruction in your home, you have probably thought how wonderful it would be to find someone to keep your pet company during those long lonely hours while you're a work. Doggy day care may just be the solution you need.

Dog day care facilities are similar to any boarding kennel but much improved over the Spartan conditions offered to dogs in years gone by. Today's dog care facilities are the equivalent of spa/resorts where your dog receives individual attention, as well as physical and mental stimulation. You can expect to find a very clean facility with adequate staff to cover the number of dogs attending for the day. If you find yourself feeling a little envious at your dog's accommodations compared to your own destination for the day, you've likely found a good place to leave your dog while you're gone.

What To Expect

Most day care facilities are divided into separate areas, including comfortable individual kennel space for your dog to spend quiet time and larger areas for play and socialization with other dogs.

Upon arrival, your dog will be assessed by the facility staff according to size, age, temperament, and activity level. This will help the staff determine the proper group of dogs for your pet to socialize with during his stay, ensuring your dog won't be harassed by more outgoing individuals or be exposed to more timid dogs who may not welcome his overtures of friendship.

During the course of the day, your dog will have open play time with like-minded dogs. Toys are usually available, and the staff is always on hand to participate in the fun and to make sure no one gets hurt. Your dog will always have fresh water available and will usually receive a healthy treat to ward off hunger. Your dog will also receive individual attention and affection from staff members, as well as an individual kennel run with a comfy bed to relax in.

Are you still worried about leaving your pet in a strange place? Many dog day care facilities have added web cameras that allow you to check in online and view your pet throughout the day. This provides real peace of mind for owners and the assurance that your dog is receiving the proper attention.

The Cost of Doggy Day Care

Prices vary from one facility to the next, depending on the amenities offered, and you will likely receive a discounted price if you are bringing more than one dog for the day. Here is the type of pricing you can generally expect:

• One dog for one day: $25.00 on average.
• Add $10.00-$15.00 per day for each additional dog.
• One dog for five days: Approximately $125.00.
• Two dogs for five days: Approximately $175.00.

General Requirements of Most Dog Day Care Facilities

To visit a dog day care establishment, your pet will have to meet a few requirements:

• Most dog day care facilities require your dog to be spayed or neutered.
• Your dog must be current on all vaccinations.
• Your dog must not display any overt signs of aggression.
• Your pet must be healthy at the time of his visit.

External Links

• Camp Bow Wow Dog Day Care
• Dog Owner's Guide Online Magazine