Dog Care & Daycare Tips

🐾 Preparing for Your Dog's First Day of Daycare

• Start with a shorter day so your dog can ease in without becoming overstimulated.
• Feed a light breakfast a few hours before drop-off to avoid an upset tummy during play.
• Skip the favorite toy the first day — new group toys can get exciting, and your dog may not share well yet.
• Arrive calm and upbeat. Dogs pick up on your energy, so a relaxed send-off means a relaxed pup.
• Bring current vaccination records ahead of time so check-in is quick.

🏥 How to Choose a Safe Daycare

• Look for real supervision. Ask about staff ratios and how many handlers watch each group.
• Confirm vaccination requirements. Reputable facilities require Rabies, DHLPP and Bordetella — and verify records.
• Ask about the play philosophy. We believe in a no-crate daycare day, with spacious, supervised open-play areas instead of cages.
• Watch how dogs are grouped. Good facilities separate puppies, small dogs and large dogs for safety.
• Take a tour. Cleanliness, fresh water and a calm, organized play floor are all good signs.

🧘 Keeping Your Dog Calm at Check-In

• Keep goodbyes short and matter-of-fact — long, anxious goodbyes can signal worry to your dog.
• Use your regular "settle" command, then let the staff take over.
• Stay consistent with your routine; dogs thrive on predictability.
• Trust the process. Most dogs are happily playing within minutes of their human leaving.

🎒 Boarding Checklist

• Food: Pack portioned, labeled food so we can follow your dog's exact diet.
• Treats: Send a few of your pup's favorites (labeled with their name).
• Medication: Include any daily medicines with clear dosage instructions.
• Vaccinations & records: Have current shot records and a copy of our forms on file.
• Emergency contact: Confirm the number on file so we can reach you anytime.

Learn more about our boarding suites and overnight care.