How to Choose A Doggy Daycare in NYC
The right doggy daycare will fulfill a dog’s needs and give dog parents peace of mind. This way, your dog stays happy, healthy, and well-cared for while you’re at work or away. There are tons of options available in New York City, so choosing one can be overwhelming. We’re here to help!
Read below to see our best tips & tricks!
Is doggy daycare right for your dog?
Doggy daycare is great for many dogs, but not all! Here are some considerations when it comes to evaluating the daycare option.
Socialization: At doggy daycare, your dog will meet new dogs, make new friends, and their social skills will be put to the desk.
Shy dogs: If your dog is shy or nervous, talk to the daycare to see what accommodations they can make. We can also share alternative solutions and answer any questions (fill out the form here).
Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Many daycares offer activities to keep your dog active, enriched, and engaged! Different breeds need different levels of engagement to be fulfilled.
Separation Anxiety Relief: If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, daycare can be a safe and familiar place.
Convenience: Daycare is convenient when you have a busy schedule or work in an office.There also may be discount packages if you know your schedule ahead of time.
1. Start with Research
The first step in finding a good doggy daycare is to do your research. Look for local facilities with good reputations. Here are some tips to start your search:
Ask for Recommendations: Talk to other dog owners, veterinarians, or trainers in your community. Word-of-mouth recommendations are the best way to find trustworthy daycare.
Check Reviews: Platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook may have company reviews! Sort by the most recent reviews and look through the lowest star reviews.
Visit Websites: Check the daycare’s website for information about their services, policies, and team. Many daycares will also post photos of their facility or have customer testimonials.
2. Visit the Facility in Person
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule a visit to the daycare. This gives you the chance to evaluate the environment and ask important questions.
Here are key things to look for during your visit:
Cleanliness: The daycare should be clean, well-maintained, and free of unpleasant odors. Clean facilities = healthy environment for your dog.
Safety Features: Check for secure rooms and separate play areas for different sizes or temperaments of dogs. Make sure the daycare has proper safety protocols in place in case of emergencies.
Supervision: Ask about the staff-to-dog ratio. It’s important there are enough trained staff members to properly supervise the dogs. A good daycare should have trained professionals who are knowledgeable in dog behavior and first aid.
Space: The daycare should have enough space for dogs to move around freely. Adequate space for play and rest is crucial for your dog’s well-being. Bonus points if they have an outside space (or take the dogs outside!).
3. Inquire About Services and Activities
Daycares offer various services, so pick whatever matches your dog’s needs. Common services and activities include:
Playgroups: Some doggy daycares organize playgroups where dogs can socialize with others. Ask if the daycare groups dogs by size, age, or temperament to ensure compatibility.
Exercise and Enrichment: Look for daycares that provide structured activities. For example, organized walks, agility training, or puzzle games, to keep your dog engaged and active. Though the services are pricier, these services show a commitment to the dogs’ well-being.
Training and Behavior Support: Though not standard, many facilities will offer extra services. If your dog needs extra help with obedience or behavior modification, find out if the daycare offers those services.
4. Ask About Health and Safety Policies
Your dog’s health and safety should be a top priority for any dog daycare.
Vaccinations: The daycare should require up-to-date vaccinations. Look for requirements like rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations to protect all dogs in the facility.
Health Screening: Ask about their procedures for checking the health of the dogs they care for. This might include temperature checks or a policy requiring dogs to stay home if they’re sick.
Emergency Protocols: Find out what the daycare’s emergency protocols are. This includes their procedures if your dog gets injured or if there’s an issue like a fight or medical emergency.
5. Evaluate the Staff’s Qualifications
The people caring for your dog are just as important as the facility itself.
Ask About Staff Experience: Are the staff members trained in animal behavior, dog CPR, or first aid?
Observe the Staff’s Interaction with Dogs: Are they calm, gentle, and attentive? A good daycare will have staff who genuinely care about animals and are attentive to their needs.
6. Consider the Cost
Pricing Structure: Does the daycare offer half-day or full-day options? Are there discounts for multiple dogs or long-term commitments? How much flexibility is there?
Extra Fees: Inquire about any extra charges for services like grooming, training, or extended hours.
7. Tips for Starting Off Right
Start Slowly! If your dog is new to daycare, try short periods at a time to help them build confidence. Give your dog time to get used to the new environment and make sure to create positive associations (through lots of treats and rewards).
Try to vary your schedule. It may be too overwhelming for your dog to go to a daycare facility 5x/week, so explore hiring a dog walker some days or even bringing your dog into work, if you can!
8. Trust Your Instincts
Finally, trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right or you notice red flags during your visit, it’s okay to walk away and continue your search. Your dog’s safety and well-being should always be your top priority.
If you still have questions, let us know and we can help! Just fill out this form here.