Leaving your furry friend at a dog daycare can be a daunting experience for both you and your pet. But with the right facility, you can trust that your dog will be well taken care of and have a great time while you’re away.

In this blog, we will discuss six essential qualities to look for when choosing the perfect dog daycare for your pet.

1. Well-Kept Building Exterior

The first impression you get when you visit a dog daycare is crucial. A well-kept building exterior is not just about aesthetics; it indicates that the facility takes pride in its appearance and, most likely, the care of its canine guests.

Look for a well-maintained building with clean walkways, well-lit parking areas, and secure fencing. This will also give you an idea of the level of safety and security provided for your pet.

2. Warm, Cozy Feeling

The atmosphere inside the dog daycare should feel warm and inviting, with comfortable areas for your dog to rest, play, and socialise. Check if the facility has climate control to ensure your pet’s comfort during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the right dog daycare will be spacious enough to accommodate all its guests without overcrowding.

3. Friendly and Accommodating Staff

A dog daycare’s staff plays a significant role in your pet’s experience, so it’s essential to choose a facility with friendly, passionate, and accommodating caregivers. Observe how the staff interacts with the dogs and ask questions about their experience and qualifications. They should be knowledgeable about dog behaviour and breed-specific needs — plus, be able to handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments.

4. Presence of Emergency Protocols

Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s crucial for a dog daycare to have a well-defined emergency protocol in place. Ask the facility about their plans for handling medical emergencies, evacuations, and other unexpected situations.

Ideally, the daycare should have a relationship with a nearby veterinary clinic and a trained staff member in pet first aid and CPR.

5. Trained and Licensed Team

A professional dog daycare should have a trained and licensed team of caregivers to ensure the highest quality of care for your pet. The staff should have certifications in areas such as dog behaviour, canine first aid, and dog training.

Additionally, the facility itself should be licensed and accredited by relevant organisations, such as the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA) or the Pet Care Services Association (PCSA).

6. Clean and Organized Spaces

Cleanliness is essential for maintaining your dog’s health and well-being. A well-organized and clean facility will minimise the risk of your pet getting sick or injured.

Inspect the daycare for cleanliness, including the play areas, rest areas, and food preparation spaces. The facility should have a regular cleaning schedule and use pet-safe cleaning products to prevent harmful chemicals from affecting your dog.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right dog daycare for your pet can be challenging, but keeping these six essential qualities in mind will help you choose the perfect facility. Trust your instincts and prioritise your pet’s safety, comfort, and happiness.

By doing thorough research and asking the right questions, you can ensure that your furry friend will have an enjoyable and enriching experience at their new dog daycare.

Are you looking for a dog daycare centre? Book a schedule at Pup PlayDates. We offer small-scale but BIG FUN packages to give your pet some company — even just for a few hours. Call us today for more information!