If you decide to send your dog to doggy daycare, it is important that you find the perfect place that will make both you and your dog feel comfortable while they are caring for your fur baby. Once you have done some research and have found some reputable doggy daycare businesses in the area, it is time to visit the center to observe and ask questions. You may have many questions that you want to talk to the staff about, but here are five questions that should always be a must!
What kind of training does the daycare’s staff have?
All members of a doggy daycare staff should be trained in the care of animals as well as appropriate safety procedures. It is also wise if the staff members are also trained in animal behavior. This means that they will be trained in things such as canine body language, which will help staff members to be alert to signs of stress or illness in any of the dogs at the facility. It is also important that the staff of the daycare that you choose is CPR and first aid trained as well.
How will the daycare contact you?
Some doggy daycares will send out daily or weekly reports to dog parents, while others have a webcam that allows you to be able to check in on how your dog is doing throughout the day. Other daycare places provide parents with a daily report card. Every daycare has a different method to let puppy parents know how their dog is doing, and it is good to know how they will keep you informed before signing your dog up. It is also important to ask if you will be notified immediately in the case of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, and in any changes in your pooch’s behavior.
What will my dog do all day long?
There are some benefits of sending your dog to doggy daycare, like giving your dog mental stimulation, exercise, and a chance to play with other dogs. When picking the right doggy daycare for your best friend, ask what the facility has for your dog. It is also a good idea to check that the daycare has a designated rest area that is comfortable and cozy for your dog to be able to take a nap when they get tired. You can also ask how much time during the day your dog will get to play with other dogs or how much of the day is spent outside versus inside.
How are dogs grouped in daycare?
Will your dog be in a group based on size or age? Or will they be in a group with fellow dogs based on their activity level? Check-in with the daycare and see how they break up dogs in their facility. A timid Yorkie puppy should probably not be in the same group as a rambunctious golden retriever and it is a good idea for you to have an idea of what other dogs your dog will be grouped in with before they start going there.
Is there a temperament test?
Most doggy daycares have a temperament test for all dogs before they are allowed to attend daycare. This is an important test that ensures that your dog, as well as the other dogs and the staff members at the daycare, remain safe. This test will see how your dog interacts with other dogs and other humans, and will also see if there are any behaviors that the daycare should be aware of such as anxiety or aggressive behaviors.
