Choosing the right dog daycare for you and your fur kid can be a tough decision. Some basic questions and thoughts should be reviewed prior to leaving your dog with their new fur kid family.
I always recommend going with your gut instinct. Does the daycare smell clean? Or does it have an underlying odour of urine and feces? Any daycare that you choose should always smell and look presentable! Keep in mind though, they will all smell a little like dog, it is inevitable!
Are there dogs barking and crying and growling? No- bark facilities do exist and are the healthier option for your pooch. Too much barking and mayhem can cause stress as well as leading to potential fights. Stress is a huge factor in loose stool, vomiting and unwillingness to return to the facility, especially if you have a shy fur kid.
By maintaining a safe, sanitary, controlled environment, the daycare staff are able to better suit your dog’s needs.
Scheduled tours send up a red flag to me. Is there something the facility is hiding? You should be freely available to tour a facility at any time as they should be clean, well kept, and in order at all times.
I believe all doggie daycares should have a window or some sort of viewing point that you are able to look in on the dogs and see what they are doing, how they interact with others, how they interact with the staff. There should be nothing to hide.
Can the staff members readily answer all your questions and concerns? Ask to meet an owner’s or manager’s dog; are they well behaved? Do they seem happy and excited to be there? Are they under control and polite? I always say, “Dog’s never lie”, they can help you make the judgement!
You can’t make others happy if you are unhappy! Make sure to look for staff that genuinely seem to love their job and WANT to be there. Your dog’s happiness and comfort will be in the hands of these individuals. A true dog lover and caregiver will revel in the fact that they get to spend time with your fur kid!
Is any staff member pet first aid certified? Pet certification is extremely helpful in the event of a bite, or illness. Do the dogs urinate inside or do they get potty breaks? Do the dogs get walks or are they left inside all day? How many staff members to dog ratios does the facility guarantee? It is extremely important to be thorough when investigating a spot for your fur kid to hang out.
Always trust your gut!
If you don’t get a good vibe, don’t go! That’s your fur baby and they deserve the best! We love our dogs and want what is best for them, make sure your feel happy and secure with your decision. Choose the right dog daycare for you