Why should someone send their dog to daycare? This is a question we get a lot – and it’s a valid one.
In the article to follow, we’ll unpack some of the primary reasons centers like our own are popular with dog lovers.
Reason #1: You’re out of the house a lot
The number one reason to send your dog to daycare is in the event you’re at work a lot of the day and you don’t have someone at home to look after your animal(s).
This is especially true if your dog is young. Puppies shouldn’t be left unsupervised for more than two hours a day.
Elderly dogs should be left alone for no longer than four to six hours, while adult dogs are typically comfortable up to the six-hour mark.
These figures are estimates, of course, and there are breeds that can tolerate loneliness better than others (the Basset Hound, French Bulldog, Chihuahua, Pug, Bull Terrier and Chow Chow all come to mind).
But in most cases, leaving your dog at home, day after day, is only going to make it irritable and disruptive.
Reason #2: You want to socialize your dog
Dogs are sociable animals and they typically fare better when they’re in contact with other dogs. Socialization should happen early on, lest bad habits are developed.
Daycares are full of strange, exciting animals, and this gives your animal the chance to interact in a group environment. It provides a whole lot of fun, and a whole lot of stimulation, something that dogs need for much of their lives.
Plus, people who run daycare centers are properly trained, and know what to look out for, so if your dog is feeling overwhelmed, she’ll be taken somewhere quiet until she has the chance to adapt.
Reason #3: You’re busier than normal at work
Imagine you’re in a particularly busy time at work: there are not enough hours in the day to look after yourself properly, let alone a dog. The exercise routine you enjoy together is falling by the wayside, and structure is hard to come by.
In these instances, doggy daycare is a great stopgap. It’ll take the pressure off you and give you the peace of mind that your dog is being looked after.
And while every owner should make a concerted effort to provide structure for their animal, if you’ve got less time on your hands than normal, daycare will provide that structure for you.
If you’re still unsure, it’s never a bad idea to check out your local center in person. There you can see the environment, see the dogs, and meet the personnel on hand to give your animal best-in-class care.
And if you have a very specific reason not covered here? Simply get in contact with your local center to see whether they can be of assistance. Chances are, they can.
