Dogs are social creatures by nature, and they love to be around their owners and other dogs. However, sometimes it’s not possible to be with them all day, every day. That’s where doggy daycare comes in. Doggy daycare is a place where dogs can play, socialize, and have fun while their owners are at work or away from home.
But just like with any new experience, it’s important to prepare your dog for their first doggy daycare experience. Here are some tips to help you and your dog have a great experience with doggy daycare.
1. Ask about Safety Certifications
One of the most important things to do when choosing a doggy daycare is to ask about safety certifications. You want to make sure the daycare facility is safe and clean for your dog.
Furthermore, you make ask for certifications to ensure that the facility meets certain standards of cleanliness, safety, and care for the dogs. You can also ask about the staff’s training and experience in handling and caring for dogs.
2. Practice Interaction and Socialisation with Your Dog
It’s essential to prepare your dog for socialisation with other dogs before their first day at daycare. Take your dog to the dog park or arrange playdates with other dogs to help them get used to being around other dogs.
If your dog has never been around other dogs before, start slowly and monitor their behaviour. Always keep your dog on a leash and introduce them to other dogs one at a time. Watch for signs of aggression or fear and remove your dog from the situation if necessary.
3. Prepare for an Assessment
Many doggy daycare facilities will require an assessment before your dog can attend. This assessment is to ensure that your dog is a good fit for the daycare and to assess their behaviour and temperament.
During the assessment, the staff will observe your dog’s behaviour around other dogs and humans. They will also ask about your dog’s medical history and any behaviour issues they may have. Be honest about your dog’s behaviour and any issues they may have.
4. Verify What’s Included in the Service
Before choosing a doggy daycare, make sure you know what’s included in the service. Some facilities may offer additional services such as grooming or training, while others may only offer daycare.
Make sure you know the hours of operation and any additional fees for late pickup or early drop-off. You should also ask about the staff-to-dog ratio and how the staff will supervise the dogs during playtime.
5. Be Ready with Your Dog’s Medical History
It’s essential to provide your dog’s medical history to the daycare facility before their first day. This includes their vaccination records and any medical conditions they may have.
Ensure your dog is up to date on all their vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and Bordetella. Most doggy daycare facilities require these vaccinations to ensure the safety of all the dogs.
6. Check the Meals Your Dog Will Have
If your dog will be at daycare for a full day, they must have meals provided. Make sure to check what kind of food the daycare offers and if they can accommodate any dietary restrictions your dog may have.
You should also ask about the feeding schedule and if the staff will monitor your dog during mealtime. Make sure to provide any special instructions for feeding your dog, such as if they need to take medication with their food.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your dog for their first day at doggy daycare can be an exciting time for both you and your furry friend. By following these tips, you can ensure your pooch has a safe and enjoyable experience at daycare.
Remember to ask about safety certifications, practice socialisation with other dogs, prepare for an assessment, verify what’s included in the service, provide your dog’s medical history, and check the meals your dog will have. With a bit of preparation and research, you and your dog can have a great experience with doggy daycare!
Are you looking for a dog day care centre you can trust? Pup PlayDates is perfect for you! You can leave your pet with us for a morning session, afternoon session, or both. Message us today for more information!
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