Sending your beloved pup to a daycare or boarding facility for the first time can be scary! In the Grand Rapids area, we’re lucky to have several options for doggie daycare or boarding (and even walking!) but how do you know if any of these services are right for your dog? Finding (and choosing) the best daycare option for your precious pooch can be difficult – especially when there are a few common myths floating around that may deter you from taking advantage of these services.

Below are some common myths about doggie daycare and boarding services. (Note: We cannot guarantee that the things below will never occur at other facilities)

Myth: Daycare will expose my dog to diseases

As with anything, it’s important to thoroughly research your daycare and boarding options. A reputable business will require that all dogs in attendance are up to date on all necessary vaccines and tests.

At Nature of the Dog we require the following: Rabies, Distemper, Bordetella, Canine Influenza, and a Negative Fecal Exam (within the last six months)

Myth: My dog won’t be watched at daycare

The safety of our clients and their pets is always our top priority. When any group of dogs are together there is always at least one person outside with them monitoring group play and acting as a referee to keep play time flowing smoothly. In the event of an emergency, multiple team members are close by and available to assist as needed.

Myth: Big dogs and small dogs shouldn’t play together

While we do not allow certain dogs to play together, we base our decisions on group play time entirely on each dog’s personality and play history. 

Myth: My dog will play with other dogs all day

This one may be a bummer for your pup, but the dogs that attend our daycare program do not play all day. Extensive play can result in injury and we want to ensure each dog leaves at the end of the day just as healthy as they were when they arrived.

That doesn’t mean they don’t play a lot though – our dogs get at least two rounds of play time in before and after lunch, enrichment activities when they are kenneled, and enjoy some rest and quiet time during lunch hours.

Myth: Doggie Daycare is a good option for any dog

Our daycare program is meant to be a safe and fun environment for your dog to engage in group play, enrichment activities, and exercise, unfortunately a daycare environment isn’t right for all dogs. 

We assess all dogs that attend our program carefully and try to adapt our daycare environment to benefit each dog as much as possible. If you are questioning whether our daycare program might be right for your dog contact us here to schedule a meet and greet.

Are you considering doggie daycare in Grand Rapids? Contact us today, or visit us on Facebook to check out the reviews and recommendations from current clients!