Sending your furry friend to daycare can be a great way to socialise them and keep them active while you’re at work. However, preparing your dog for daycare is crucial to ensure they have a positive experience. Here are five tips to help you get your pup ready for their day at daycare.
1. Are they up-to-date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention?
First, make sure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccinations and flea/tick prevention. Vaccinations protect your furry friend from potentially deadly diseases such as rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. By ensuring that your dog receives regular vaccinations, you are not only safeguarding their health but also preventing the spread of these diseases to other animals. Flea and tick treatment is equally important in maintaining your dog’s well-being. These pesky parasites can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even transmit harmful diseases such as Lyme disease. Regularly treating your dog for fleas and ticks helps prevent infestations in your home and keeps your pooch healthy and happy. Keeping your dog’s treatments up to date will help protect both your dog and other dogs from potential health risks.
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2. Are they okay being away from you?
Secondly, gradually introduce your dog to being away from you by leaving them with a trusted friend or family member for short periods of time. If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, it’s important to establish a routine. This includes feeding them at the same time each day, taking them for regular walks (or daycare), and providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A tired dog is less likely to experience anxiety when left alone. Daycare is a great help for those dogs who suffer from separation anxiety!
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3. Do they play well with others?
It is important to make sure that your dog is properly trained and socialised before embarking on a daycare session. This means teaching them basic commands such as sit, stay, and heel, as well as exposing them to different environments and other dogs in a controlled setting. It is important to remain calm and confident when working with your dog’s socialisation. Dogs can pick up on their human’s emotions, so staying relaxed will help your pet feel at ease in new situations. Encourage positive interactions with other dogs by allowing them to sniff each other and play together under supervision. Additionally, it is crucial to teach your dog proper both off and on lead etiquette to ensure they are not pulling or lunging at other animals or people. Consistent training and reinforcement will help your dog become a well-behaved companion both on walks and in social settings.
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4. Do a trial day!
At Green Dog Walking, we offer a trial day so that you and your dog can see how they get on in the environment, with the walker, and with others in the group. It provides an opportunity for your dog to acclimate to the new environment, interact with other dogs, and be assessed by our walkers. For you, a trial day offers peace of mind knowing your furry friend is in good hands, hopefully alleviating any concerns or anxieties about leaving your dog in daycare!
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5. Have they got any special requirements?
Communicate any special instructions or concerns with the daycare staff to ensure a smooth transition for your furry friend. Make sure to provide the walker with all necessary information about your dog’s behaviour, likes, and dislikes. Whether it be dietary restrictions, medical conditions, behavioural issues, or simply preferences in walking routes, providing this information ensures the safety and well-being of your furry friend. By informing your dog walker about these special needs, you are enabling them to provide the best possible care for your pet. This open line of communication allows for a tailored and personalised experience that takes into account your dog’s individual needs. Additionally, sharing this information helps to build trust and understanding between you and your dog walker. It shows that you are invested in your pet’s happiness and comfort while they are in someone else’s care.
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