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Are you considering sending your dog to doggie daycare? Or, do you want someone to spend some time with your dog while you are at work. Many places offer a day care facility for dogs. If this is something you might want to look into, I have some suggestions for finding the best place for you dog. Also, do not rule out dog walkers. These people can come to you home and walk your dog while you are at work.
Gather a list of daycare facilities, and their addresses. Good places to start finding these facilities and people are at unleash parks. Many people at these parks have or are using daycare services. You can also get good recommendations from the dog community. Call each place for an appointment, preferably during the time they are taking care of dogs. Also, you can go to pet shops and feed stores, and ask about dog walkers and day care facilities. Spend a day with your dog at each place or with each person.
It the facility really chaotic? Do you find the people stressed? Notice what the dogs are doing, and what their program is. See how your dog mingles with the other dogs. Is he sociable? What if you have a dog that is not very social, does this facility have a good program for your dog? Look for a place that allows your dog to have its own area, especially if your dog has not been around a large group. Does the daycare pick up your dog, or do you drop it off. Figure out what you are comfortable with; most places that pick your dog up have a key to your house. Make sure you investigate how other customers feel about these facilities and people. Check all references the company offers you. I would also investigate other organizations, such as the Humane Society for references.
It is vital that your daycare facility has experience with dogs, especially with training and care taking. You do not want a place that will encourage your dog to find new bad habits. Assertive people will assist your dog in keeping his polite self! Also, investigate which vets they like to use, and how they handle dog emergencies. If your dog is in an outside facility is it fenced well, keeping him away from traffic? Is the fence high enough? Also, notice the interior of the facility to make sure there is nothing your dog can harm himself on.
If your dog is antisocial and tends to be aggressive, perhaps daycare is not the right place for him. Most facilities suggest having a dog walker. Dog walking is a great program. If you can find someone you trust to take your dog each day, your dog will feel more relaxed and enjoy the attention. When interviewing dog walkers, ask how many dogs he takes at one time. This is important, because your dog might require one on one attention, rather than just running around in a group. Ask what the walker's program is, and where he likes to go. If there are places that your dog really enjoys, perhaps your walker can work those places into the program.
Make sure you have a good background of the person who will be entering your house. Make sure this person is highly recommended, and that your dog can willingly accept him as a new friend. Do a trial walk with the walker. Have him come at a certain time, while you are out of the apartment. Stay in the vicinity, so that the walker can discuss with you how your dog was to get from the apartment. If there was a problem, work with your walker to get your dog comfortable and happy with this person. If your dog remains unhappy, try someone different.
There is a great place for your dog when you are working. Mostly, finding it takes time and patience. Try not to rush into anything. If you have friends that are home during the day, ask for some temporary help. Make it so he is as comfortable as he can be when you are away.
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