Most pet owners know the feeling of wearing themselves down all day at work to come home to a turned over trash can, a destroyed comforter or a peed on carpet. It is frustrating and it’s frustrating not just for us, but for our animals too. If your dog is being destructive while you’re out, it means that he’s probably pretty bored. The best way to cure destructive behaviors is to provide your animal with something to do during the day (ex. toys, a yard, a playmate) or to exhaust him with exercise when you get home so that he is worn out all day. Sometimes, however, busy schedules conflict with this plan. In these scenarios, where your dog just can’t get enough entertainment while you’re gone or you just don’t have the time or energy to exhaust him when you are home, doggy daycare may be a good option to consider for your pooch.
What is doggy daycare?
Depending on the facility, doggy daycare can be a small or large facility where dogs can run and play with other dogs, play with humans, run inside or outside, get affection and in general just chill out with humans and other pups. Doggy daycares can be run out of private homes or can be large scale facilities with a big staff. Doggy daycare can range from $8 a day to $50 a day depending on what sort of establishment it is, how big it is and how many dogs they care for daily.
Small doggy daycares run out of private homes are often cheaper, have a higher human to dog ratio and can only accommodate a certain number of dogs on a daily basis. If your dog isn’t the most socialized, this may be a good option for him. Private in-home daycares usually offer a relaxed environment that is appealing for many pet owners.
Larger commercial doggy daycares often accommodate ten to thirty dogs at once and are great for social doggies who like to romp around with other animals of the canine persuasion. Commercial daycares often have trained staff who are taught how to handle outbreaks of aggression and usually have a deal worked out with a local vet, should a medical emergency arise. These daycares also often give out treats and have organized games for the doggies to play, along with plenty of toys and room for the animals to run around. These daycares may also be a little more expensive.
Either way, any sort of doggy daycare will require your dog’s up to date shot records to be sure that they are current with all vaccinations, as preventing the spread of disease and parasites is a concern.
If you work all week and feel guilty about your pup sitting at home alone, doggy daycare may just be a good option for you. This is not to say that there is any replacement for good exercise for your dog or behavior modification, but in some situations where you are pressed for time and can use that extra affection and attention being given to your pet by other dogs and humans, doggy daycare may be a great choice for you.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Loved your article…while doggy day is not something that I would feel comfortable with for my own poochie, I understand how it can benefit those who are gone from home for long periods of time. Great read!!
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start a doggy daycare?
Hi Vonnie:
I certainly do but I don’t know what advice you need. I’ll send you an email with my contact info.
Hey, don’t overlook having a dog walker come into your home and taking your dogs out for daily dogwalks while you are at work. This is a less expensive option than doggy daycare, and for some dogs the only option. Some of your dogs may get rejected at the daycare for being too aggressive with other dogs or not being sociable. And if a doggie daycare does not pre-screen your dog before being allowed entry, run the other way, fast! Daily dog walks will give your dog one-on-one attention, and get rid of that excess energy which is one of the main causes of them getting into trouble while you are gone.
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