Should I Use Dog Daycare

What is Dog Daycare?

Doggie daycare is exactly what it sounds like it is. It is a place to take your pup during the day so that he or she is not home alone while you are at work or school. Taking your dog to a doggie daycare is a viable option to a pet-sitter or paying a neighbor‘s kid to take your dog for a walk while you are away from home.

Why I Should Consider Doggie Day Care

Dog daycares provides your pup with attention and affection and exercise during the time that they are there. Unlike most kennels, these daycares promote that they take the time to exercise and socialize your pet rather than keeping them in a crate. A doggie daycare will give your pup the opportunity to spend time with other dogs and people. Employees will give your pet personal attention and playtime.

Dog Kennel vs Dog Daycare

Should I use a dog Kennel or Doggie Daycare? Because daycare offer more attention than a kennel, a doggie daycare will likely be more expensive than kenneling your dog. For an active breed puppy or dog, the daycare will help expend some of their energy during the time you are at work or school so that you don’t have to spend your entire evening exercising and playing with your dog. They will also help with the socialization process, as there will be other dogs of varying ages and breeds with which your dog will spend time.

The requirements for getting your dog accepted into a doggie daycare are usually: having a current license, that your pup is up to date on all their vaccination shots (including rabies, distemper, and bordetella), and that they are spayed or neutered. Some daycares also have age limits, not accepting puppies that are younger than one year, and breed restrictions; often pit bull or wolf mixes are not permitted. Other restrictions may be in place, so check with your local doggie daycare to find out their rules and regulations.

Meals are provided if necessary; you usually have the option to pack your dog a meal or let them eat whatever food is offered at the facility. Treats and medications are usually permitted. Daily required medication will require a note from your veterinarian and the medication in the original bottle to prevent mix-ups. Doggie daycares are available in most major cities. To find a doggie daycare near you, check at your local retail pet store or ask your veterinarian for information.

So Should I Use Dog Daycare?

Taking your pup to a doggie daycare is a good idea for an owner with an active breed dog that does not always have the time to exercise their pup. While they may be expensive, finding a facility that makes your dog happy may be worth the expense. On the other hand, some owners may prefer to take their chances or pay a pet sitter or friend to take care of their dog when they are not able; it may be less expensive and less of a hassle to them.

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