As a follower of Cesar’s philosophy, you know how crucial exercise is in keeping your dog balanced and fulfilled. Although walking you pup is the most primal, natural activity you can do together, other forms of exercise drains energy, reduces stress, and keeps our bodies fit and healthy.
As committed as we may be to our dogs, reality often gets in the way of following through with our exercise strategy for them. The obligations of a full-time job, travel, and children are the norm for many of us. Being left alone and without structure for eight or more hours a day can have detrimental effects on your dog, especially if he already has behavior issues.
Doggie day care can be an excellent alternative for those of us with lifestyles that make it impossible for us to exercise our dogs on a consistent basis. Although it is not a substitute for structured, quality time with you, it can be a positive experience for your dog.
It’s essential that you do your homework to make sure you’re sending your dog to a reputable facility. After all, the day care business you choose will be responsible for the care of your beloved pet in your absence!
- Ask Your Vet for Day Care Recommendations
Begin by asking your trusted veterinarian for recommendations. He is sure to have talked to other clients about their experiences, good or bad, of day care facilities in your area.
- Ask Potential Doggie Day Care Centers these Questions
Call the day care centers that interests you to inquire about their day rates and hours of operation. Ask them what types of activities your dog would participate in if he were to stay at their facility. Ask if they separate small dogs and large dogs when forming playgroups. Find out if there is a staff member supervising play at all times. Ask the day care facility if it screen dogs for sociability before accepting them into its program. If so, ask if the staff members evaluating the dogs are professional dog trainers.
- Find out About the Day Care Center’s Dog Training Philosophy
Inquire about the company’s overall training philosophy. Make sure discipline and structure are concepts that are implemented throughout the day. You want your dog to have fun, but it’s essential that play guidelines are respected in order for him to learn proper social skills.
- Take a Tour of the Day Care Center
Visit the facility unexpectedly and ask for a tour. If your request is denied or accepted reluctantly, consider this a major red flag. A doggie day care center that is well run should be enthusiastic about showing potential clients its setup.
- What to Look for on the Day Care Center Tour.
During the tour, pay attention to the overall cleanliness of the runs and play areas. Ample shade and water should be available throughout the facility. Make a point of noticing if there is sufficient supervision when two or more dogs are playing in a contained area.
- Interview the Doggie Day Care Staff
Don’t be hesitant to interview the staff member who’s taking you on a tour of the facility. Ask her what the emergency plan is should your dog become injured or ill while there.
In the end, you should feel completely confident about the doggie day care center you choose for your best friend. A good facility can benefit both you and your dog. He will have the opportunity to socialize with other dogs and learn invaluable social skills. Spending the day being physically and mentally stimulated will go a long way toward keeping him balanced and resolving behavior issues at home!