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top 10 things to look for |
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What’s the philosophy?
Playtime is good, structure in a pack is crucial. Does the daycare require attention to basic commands? Do the dogs know that positive behaviors bring delicious treats, or praise? Appropriate behaviors should be rewarded, and conversely, bad behaviors should be disciplined, but never punished. Make sure this philosophy is practiced for the fun and safe experience of every dog. - A clean and separated sleeping area
Find the right size for your breed and no matter how much they like each other or how cuddly, they should be separated from the other animals. Certified trainers
While most sites have certified trainers in behavior modification, training and yes, even counseling, they should also be certified in pet CPR and First Aid. Ask if trainers work one-on-one with your animal to reverse bad behaviors – they could someday save your furniture. Good doggie hygiene
Regular grooming, teeth cleaning, nail clipping and bathing – these are some of the things that groomers provide. Make sure your groomers are trained in positive reinforcement as they will be working very closely with your friend. Room to roam
Oftentimes people who live in apartments seek out doggie daycare. They are looking for physical activity and socialization for their best friend. Look for enclosed areas for free play and areas for training. Leashed walks are an added plus. Non-negotiable vaccination policies
Appropriate vaccinations, up to date copies from your vet, the right city licenses – these are all things that your daycare should require in order to prevent the spread of illness throughout the daycare. Daily Routine
In the morning, dogs are ready to play. They want to wrestle and chase and fetch. Look for centers that schedule training and/or play in the morning. Then, when the afternoon arrives, the doggies like to nap. Some centers provide soothing music or let the dogs nibble on chews. As the days wind down, snuggling happens as they wait for Mommy and Daddy to pick them up. Size Matters
To allow for various temperaments and sizes, there should be multiple rooms. The puppies need to be with other puppies. The little dogs don’t want to get stepped on by a big paw. The big dogs should be able to be rough and tumble with other dogs their size and age. The older dogs should be able to sniff and snail around at their own golden pace. Get a License
City doggie licenses are both a safety and security measure. It helps the recovery of stray dogs, and helps protect the public from rabies. It also helps protect the dog and must be on the dog’s collar at all times. Obtain an application for a new dog license or a dog renewal license for San Francisco. You will need to provide a copy of the dog’s rabies vaccination certificate, a certificate of spayed or neutered and proof of owner’s residency. For more information call San Francisco Animal Care and Control at (415) 554-6449 Monday thru Friday 8am to 5pm. Other good questions
How do the trainers handle dog fights? (They are inevitable.)
Are the big dogs separated from the little dogs?
What are the hours of operation?
Is there a discount for full-time care?
Is there weekend care, overnight care or holiday care?
What is the staff to dog ratio? 10-15 dogs per trainer is optimal.
Is there a veterinarian on call 24 hours?
Is the center clean and well maintained?
Do the other dogs look healthy?
Is there a separate area for puppies?
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