“Dear Jenna…”I work all day, and my dog is alone from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. I can’t leave him loose in the house because he’s so destructive. Do you think it’s okay to keep him in a kennel all those hours?” My answer is “NO, it’s not okay, so if you don’t use a Doggie Daycare, at least find a responsible dog walker.”
If your dog ever had any formal training, you might recall that he or she was really tired after an hour, even though the exercises were mentally and not physically challenging. Dogs need stimulation. They do get bored, and they do get lonely. Doggie daycare offers everything to your dog that kindergarten would offer to a toddler. Safety and well-being, plus fun and learning, are the perfect combination. Socialization also plays a big role in Doggie Daycare, with dogs socializing and canine-human interaction.
Ask for a tour of the facility. Find out if they hired some teenagers for playtime and walking or if the staff is experienced in handling dogs. How long have they been in business, and are they licensed? How safe is the facility? Is it clean? Are medical records required, and must the dogs be current on vaccines? You don’t want your dog coming home with kennel cough. Are the dogs separated into groups depending on temperament and size? Is there a menu of ala carte activities? Can they handle emergencies? Are there indoor and outdoor provisions? Can you bring your dog for an hour and observe?
Think about going swimming at your favorite vacation hotel. How fun is that? Your dog will think so, too, especially if your cherished canine is a lab or golden. Pet Hotels are sprouting up like 7/11s, so visit a few before you decide what to do. The questions are the same; I know you know what to look for. I was amazed at some of the facilities I’ve seen lately.
The hotel I was most impressed with included things I would not have imagined possible. Though it was truly impressive, some wonderful features are unnecessary for everyone’s dogs to be comfortable, happy, safe, and well cared for. Imagine this – each private room has a child’s bed and mattress for your dog to sleep on, a T.V., and a computerized nanny cam so you can go onto the Internet from any computer or cell phone while on vacation and watch your dog live! I love that. The outdoor play area has Astro-turf ground cover and a built-in filtration system so the dogs never get dirty. Of course, if they do, a grooming salon is on the premises. There was also an indoor pool that was more than inviting, a massage and therapy room, indoor playrooms, training rooms, and rooms I can’t even remember. How about agility?
The bottom line is, no matter what the “extras” are, your dog is better off in a safe and happy environment, whether for a few hours or a few days, and it’s your job to check it out before you check him in!
