Doggy daycare can be a lifeline for busy pet parents, offering a safe and enriching environment for their furry friends while they're away. However, choosing the wrong daycare can have serious consequences for both dogs and their owners. At Heather's Heroes, as well as our sister company, K9 Lifeline, we understand the critical role a trustworthy daycare plays in your dog's well-being. That's why we're detailing out some key things to look for when selecting a daycare that prioritizes your dog's well-being. By the end of reading this blog, you’ll have learned all the red flags and green flags to look for in a doggy daycare that meets your dog's needs and provides you with peace of mind.

#1 - Ask for a Tour

When choosing a doggy daycare, asking for a tour is essential to get a firsthand look at the facility and observe how the dogs are cared for. A trusted daycare will gladly offer a tour, allowing you to assess cleanliness, safety measures, and overall environment. Red flags may include a facility that hesitates or refuses to provide a tour, which could indicate they have something to hide. On the other hand, green flags include a daycare that welcomes tours and showcases clean, well-maintained play areas, designated rest spots, and adequate supervision by trained staff. Observing the interactions between dogs and staff during your visit can provide valuable insights into the daycare's quality of care.

#2 - Do They Have Vaccine Requirements?

You should always inquire about a doggy daycare’s vaccine requirements as this directly impacts the safety and health of your pet. Legally, daycares should mandate rabies vaccinations, but reputable facilities often go beyond this by requiring DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) and bordetella (for kennel cough). At K9 Lifeline, we also insist on a fecal exam for added protection against common parasites like coccidia and giardia, and since we’ve implemented this rule, we haven’t had any outbreaks. Red flags might include daycares with lax vaccine policies or those unwilling to discuss their vaccination protocols, while green flags signal transparency and a commitment to disease prevention through comprehensive vaccine requirements.

#3 - How Do They Group Dogs?

Understanding how a doggy daycare divides its groups is essential for ensuring a positive experience for your pet. A good daycare should separate dogs into different groups based on size, energy levels, and play styles to ensure everyone has a positive experience. At K9 Lifeline, we provide three groups:

• Adult dogs: over 30 pounds who need a calmer environment to thrive.
• Party animals: exactly what it sounds like! Adolescent dogs over 25 pounds who have an active and energetic play style.
• Small dogs and puppies: usually dogs under six months and adult dogs under 25 pounds.

A red flag might be a daycare that mixes all dogs together indiscriminately, leading to potential conflicts or stress. On the other hand, a daycare that divides dogs into smaller groups based on compatible characteristics is waving a green flag that demonstrates a commitment to safety and a welcoming social environment.

#4 - Do They Do Behavior Testing?

Behavior testing is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a doggy daycare. A responsible facility will conduct behavior assessments to ensure that each dog's personality and temperament align with the daycare's environment. This process helps prevent conflicts and promotes harmonious interactions among the dogs. Green flags include daycares that have a formal behavior assessment protocol and are transparent about their evaluation process. Avoid facilities that skip this step, as it can lead to unpredictable dynamics and potentially unsafe situations for your dog.

#5 - Do They Provide Rest Time?

Rest time is an essential component of a well-run doggy daycare. Green flag daycares prioritize providing adequate rest periods for the dogs throughout the day. Dogs need breaks to recharge and unwind from social interactions and play. A good facility will have designated rest areas or quiet spaces where dogs can relax and recuperate as needed. On the other hand, red flags include daycares that do not offer structured rest periods or have overcrowded play areas without designated rest zones. 

#6 - Can They Provide Detailed Feedback?

Open communication shows a commitment to providing excellent service. Some daycares will provide live video feeds and other will provide detailed feedback. Daycares should provide comprehensive updates at the end of the day, highlighting your dog's activities, behavior, and interactions. This feedback helps you stay informed and reassured about your dog's experience while at daycare. You should be able to get a report each day.

Remember, price doesn't always reflect the quality of service. It's essential to do your research and visit potential daycares in person to make an informed decision that aligns with your dog's needs and your expectations. At Heather's Heroes and K9 Lifeline, we advocate for the best care possible for your beloved pets. Want more advice from us like this? Head to our learning portal for additional resources.