What to look for in doggy daycare and the concerns owners have about dropping their pet off at a new facility. You have questions and concerns, like “Will my dog get along with other dogs?”, “Will they miss me?” Much like dropping your human child off at school every day, dropping off your dog has those same questions that will come up. Here are a few answers to some doggy daycare concerns most owners have if they’ve never used a daycare service.
Is dog daycare a good idea? What do I look for?
Doggy daycare is a great alternative to a single dog walk once per day. It’s also a better way for your dog to interact with other dogs as there is a professional dog handler at the ready should anything happen between two dogs. Consider going to a dog park and having to break up two dogs on your own. Having your dog at a professional doggy daycare facility helps keep your dog interactive and helps them adapt socially with other dogs.
What You Should Expect From Doggy Daycare
Doggy daycare is a great way to socialize your dog, especially if you have a shy dog. With a shy dog, daycare can be a great tool to help your dog build his or her confidence and adjust to other dogs and people. While it may take time for your dog to get used daycare, they will come around and find a friend or two to pal around with
Daycare is also an excellent way to exercise your dog as it can be fun to run with the pack! Your dog may be exhausted at the end of the day and may want to sleep a bit more when you get them home.
Some dogs who aren’t into running around all day and tend to nap will get some great mental stimulation while at the facility. With so many new friends running about, there’s so much to watch and of course new smells!
How often should my dog go to daycare?
Bringing your dog to daycare depends entirely on the needs of your dog’s need for interaction, their energy and if they have separation anxieties. While some of our guests come everyday, other swing by to play 1 – 3 times per week. The goal is to get your dog into a consistent schedule of doggy daycare so they can interact and play in the same pack with dogs that are also on a consistent schedule.
Does dog daycare help with socialization?
Bringing your dog in to meet other dogs will certainly help get them socialized and in a “pack” of their own. It will also help to alleviate there boredom and loneliness at home. It also helps them to get used to people (and our DDG staff are the best!). They will also get to exercise and learn from the other dogs how to play in the pack. For some parents, it does give them a good feeling knowing their dog is with friends during the day and not cooped up in the house eliminating maybe a tinge of guilt on your part.
Is Doggy Daycare good for separation anxiety?
When you can’t be with your dog all day do to work, vacation or simple errand running, often separation anxiety becomes an issue in your home. Doggy daycare can help with dogs that suffer from separation anxiety. It gives your dog a place to go which provides both mental and physical stimulation; which, may make them tired and more receptive to training you do at home. This will also alleviate the need for the dog to tear up your home, furnishings, footwear, etc.
Why is my dog so tired after daycare?
Your dog may be tired and worn out when they get home. Dogs in daycare don’t often take breaks from running and playing. While we do offer hour long nap rotations in the middle of the day; the dogs will still need some extra sleep at home. After a day of daycare your dog will most likely go home tired, thirsty and possibly hungry. This is completely normal behavior. During the day, while the dogs play, they may not take the time to stop and drink water as they should. While our staff always provides fresh water most dogs become too distracted with all the play. Don’t be surprised if your dog goes home eats and passes out. This is normal and is probably one of the primary reasons you bring your dog to daycare.
If you’re considering doggy daycare for any of the reasons or suggestions above, Dog Day Getaway would love to have you come in and chat with us. We’ll give you a tour of our 12,000 square foot facility here in Apple Valley, MN and let you see other clients dogs at play.
