Do you own a large breed dog that has an energy level that you can not keep up with? Do you worry about your dog getting the exercise or attention they need while you are at work? Are you remodeling your house and tired of having the dog constantly underfoot and barking at contractors. Any of the above situations may mean that doggie day care is an option for you.

Doggie day care can be as diverse as the breed populations they serve. Some offer overnight stays, training classes, even luxuries like canine massage, Some doggie day cares offer the busy dog owner some offer a wide variety of pet supplies and well dog care from a regular visiting vet. Most have a variety of packages for dogs who attend weekly or just occasionally.

The physical facilities can vary as much as the services offered. Some have very large warehouse space where they can separate dogs by size and energy level. Most will have some sort of outside exercise space and indoor runs for when the weather is inclement. Some provide doggie play sets with tunnels and places to hide. All will provide their clients with a variety of safe and hygienic play toys. Even if your pooch is couch potatoes some have doggie furniture to make him feel right at home.

Before you pack your pup off for doggie daycare; understand that they must meet certain criteria. Most doggie day cares require that you’re pooh be current on all their shots and do not have significant health issues. Also not all dogs can handle the chaos of being around a large number of other dogs. If your dog is excessively shy, aggressive, or territorial then they will not pass the screening that all doggie day cares require. This process measures your dogs social skills in situations when they are introduced to new dogs, subjected to active play, and group feeding situations. Even after the extensive interview process usually dogs are only allowed a half day on their first visit to make sure things will go well.

Things to Look for In Doggie Daycare

· Staff to Dog ratio should be no more than 10 dogs per human

· Staff should have some first aid training for pets. The Red Cross offers first aid classes for our furry friends..

· Does the day care have an emergency plan for animals that suddenly become seriously ill.? Will they provide emergency transportation to your veterinarian?

· Does the facility offer a place for your dog when they need a time out from rough play? Does the staff interact with the dogs during all play sessions or simply provide supervision and intervene when things appear to be getting to rough?

· Is the facility escape proof? Is there sturdy and adequate fencing and security around doors?

If your pooch can past the screening test; pack your pooches backpack with his favorite toy and feel good about leaving your pet at doggie day care.