When choosing a doggy daycare, it’s essential to ensure that your furry friend will be in a safe, healthy, and happy environment. Here are the top 12 things to look for in a doggy daycare:
1. **Ensure your Doggy Day Care service has Council approval** … many back yard and so called farm stays do not comply and are risky services for your puppy.
2. **Short Travel times** …. many dogs spend up to 4 hours a day being transported up freeways to locations far away. Look for a day care services just a short drive from your home.
3. **Cleanliness and Hygiene**: The facility should be clean, with no unpleasant odors, and regularly sanitized. Look for a well-maintained environment with clean play areas, bedding, and food/water bowls.
4. **Qualified and Caring Staff**: The staff should be knowledgeable about dog behavior and trained in handling dogs, including recognizing signs of stress, illness, and aggression. They should be friendly, caring, and genuinely interested in the well-being of the dogs.
5. **Safety Measures**: Check for secure fencing, separate areas for different sizes and temperaments of dogs, and safety protocols like emergency procedures and first-aid availability. The staff should also monitor dogs at all times.
6. **Proper Supervision**: There should be a good staff-to-dog ratio to ensure that all dogs are adequately supervised during playtime and rest periods. Ideally, there should be one staff member for every 10-15 dogs.
7. **Playtime and Socialization**: The daycare should offer ample playtime and socialization opportunities with other dogs. The activities should be structured and supervised to ensure the dogs are getting enough exercise and mental stimulation.
8. **Comfortable Facilities**: Look for comfortable resting areas where dogs can relax between play sessions. There should be soft bedding and climate-controlled environments to keep dogs comfortable in all weather conditions.
9. **Health Requirements**: The daycare should require proof of vaccinations and regular health checks to ensure that all dogs in the facility are healthy and free of contagious diseases. They should also have policies for handling sick dogs.
10. **Transparent Policies**: The daycare should have clear policies on issues like feeding, medication administration, behavior management, and emergency procedures. They should also provide regular updates on your dog’s day.
11. **Trial Visits and Tours**: A good daycare will allow you to tour the facility and arrange a trial visit for your dog to see how they interact with the environment and other dogs. This gives you an opportunity to assess the daycare before committing.
12. **Positive Reviews and Reputation**: Look for a daycare with positive reviews from other pet owners. Word of mouth and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and service the daycare provides.
By considering these factors, you can ensure that your dog will be in a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment while you’re away.
We feel that Hounds on Heels excels in all these requirements. Contact us now !