Welcoming your dog to the world of day care can be an exciting and overwhelming moment. Doggy day care provides and amazing opportunity for your dog to socialize pay around and use its excess energy. As a pet parent, you want the best for the canine friend. You want to make sure it is receiving enough care, socialization and fun even when you are away. Therefore, choosing the right day care and preparing your friend is paramount. It will make the transition easier for the dog and give you peace of mind. The following are simple things to do to prepare your dog for its first day in a day care.
– Research
Before you choose a day care, it is vital to research first. Begin with knowing what a good dog day care should have. A facility should have a safe and clean environment for your dog. The environment should also be supervised by qualified staff. It is a good idea to check reviews, look for word of mouth from other dog pet owners and visit the facility. It will give you a glimpse of what the facility is like.
– Update Health Records and Vaccinations
Most day cares will require pet owners to update their pet health records and vaccinations. Typically, you will provide records of vaccination against parvovirus, rabies and kennel cough. Additionally, you must have a tick and flea prevention plan. Contact your day care to know their requirements before you enroll your pet.
– Evaluate Its Social Skills
Before taking your pet to a day care, you need to evaluate its social skills. Mostly, the facility may not accept dogs that do not know how to socialize. You need to make sure your dog knows how to play with others. It should also be comfortable around other people and pets. If your pet has fear or is always aggressive, you might need to get a professional trainer before enrolling it.
– Acclimate Gradually
An abrupt change to your dog can have dire consequences to their emotional and physical health. Therefore, before the day comes, ensure your dog is comfortable. You can do this by exposing it to various environments, pets and people. Even better, take a short trip to the facility. It will prepare your companion and build its confidence.
– Carry a Day Care Bag
It is crucial to ensure you carry all essential to keep your dog happy. On the first day, ensure you pack items like a leash and a familiar blanket or toy. It is also paramount to carry all required medications and a portion of their regular food. Such essentials will keep your dog at ease during the first day.
– Establish a Consistent Routine
Your dog will thrive well with a consistent routine. Therefore, confirm with the facility about their routines. Make sure you participate in maintaining the consistency. A consistent schedule will make transitioning easier. It will also give your canine companion a sense of security. Additionally, the dog will benefit from exercise, socialization and stimulation.
To Wrap It Up
Your dog first day at day care is paramount and does not have to be overwhelming. You can make experience enjoyable and positive by following the tips. Remember, the intention is to create safe and fun environment for your canine friend. So, make it as nurturing as possible to help it make friends and come back home a happy dog.
