For many of us, dogs aren’t merely pets but genuine members of the household. They accompany us on walks, romp with our kids and sometimes even curl up in bed with us. But there’s one thing most dogs can’t do: come to work with us.
When my circumstances shifted a couple of years back, my dog Finn suddenly faced being left alone for nine hours each day. I began investigating doggy day care to see whether it fit my budget.
If you work long shifts or attend classes most of the day and don’t have time to pop home to check on your pup, you’ve likely thought about hiring a professional to watch your dog.
But doggy day care can be pricey. Before signing up, be sure the expense fits your finances and that the service justifies the price.
What’s Included in Doggy Day Care?
Before you hand over cash for doggy day care, look into what a specific facility actually provides. Here are the standard offerings you should expect from a reputable doggy day care.
Play Sessions
Play is crucial for your dog’s wellbeing, so ensure the day care provides either group play with other dogs or one-on-one time with staff. You should find indoor and outdoor play zones with slip-resistant flooring; these spaces should be large enough for dogs to run and move freely, and include designated bathroom areas.
The center should separate large dogs from small ones for safety, and have climate-controlled areas available for extreme heat or cold.
Proper Feedings
Pick a facility that will feed your dog if you plan to leave them all day. You’ll usually need to bring your dog’s food and tell staff about any dietary sensitivities or allergies.
For instance, Finn has a severe reaction to poultry, so if I ever board him I must clearly inform staff that neither his meals nor treats can contain chicken, turkey or duck.
Walks
Make sure your dog gets several chances for quick “potty walks” through the day. Older dogs like Finn often need more frequent bathroom breaks; ask whether the facility can accommodate that.
Always bring your own leash for these walks—most centers require dogs to be leashed on arrival and departure. Also ask whether walks are confined to the property or taken offsite.
Ample Rest Time
Play wears dogs out. A good doggy day care will provide sufficient rest periods and cozy spots for your dog to relax. Some centers, especially those offering overnight boarding, allow you to bring a blanket or bed from home—check ahead if you plan to send belongings with your pet.
Safe Toys
Much like a child’s daycare, a doggy facility should supply enriching toys for mental stimulation. Watch out for items known to be risky—rawhides, for example. When unsure, consult the Humane Society’s approved toy list and avoid centers that permit toys that could harm dogs.
Doggy Day Care Essentials
It isn’t just toys and play space that determine whether a doggy day care is suitable for your companion. Also verify the following before selecting a facility:
- Proof of vaccinations: It might be a hassle to dig up your dog’s shot records, but requiring proof ensures other dogs at the facility are vaccinated too.
- Clean environment: Tour the premises before committing, checking cleanliness. Look for promptly cleaned waste; while a mild dog smell is normal, a quality day care will handle messes quickly.
- Adequate staffing: Positively.com recommends an adult-to-dog ratio no higher than 1:15 so staff can respond to injuries, fights or illness.
- An intake interview: A professional doggy day care will interview you and your dog to ensure a good fit. This is the time to ask about staffing ratios, handling medication or dietary needs, emergency procedures and anything else on your mind. The facility should also ask you about your dog’s background.
Average Doggy Day Care Prices
Rates for doggy day care vary widely depending on location and amenities. Generally, centers in major cities or on the east and west coasts cost more because of higher living expenses.
Members of Angie’s List reported spending on average$42 per day in 2014, though prices for members ranged from $25 to $50 per day.
CostHelper.com listed lower ranges, with $12 to $38 for a full day and $6 to $25 for half days. From friends’ experiences with cheap providers, I’d advise caution with options at the very low end.
Many doggy day cares offer discounted monthly plans if you’ll be leaving your dog Monday through Friday. CostHelper.com saw monthly packages between $240 and $550.
Additional Doggy Day Care Charges
As you’ve likely learned with other purchases, price tags often don’t include everything. Doggy day care frequently has extra fees to watch for.
Possible additional charges include:
- Application or registration fee
- Late pick-up fees
- Transport fees if you choose pickup/drop-off service
- Emergency veterinary costs, which reputable day cares will require you to authorize in advance
Alternatives to Doggy Day Care
If doggy day care fees seem steep, you aren’t alone. There are other routes to consider — but ultimately you should prioritize your pet’s physical and emotional health and safety.
Dog Walkers
Hiring a dog walker to visit your home and take your dog out is an option. Look for insured, vetted walkers with good reviews, or consider local vet techs who may offer walks for extra income. Keep in mind that repeated walking services can add up and approach the cost of day care.
Friends and Family
If someone you trust can stop by daily to play with your dog, consider compensating them fairly. They’ll likely charge far less than a day care, and your dog may already be comfortable with them.
Work from Home or Bring Your Dog to Work
Employers are increasingly open to remote work and pet-friendly policies. Ask your manager if you can telecommute or bring your dog into the office. If that’s unlikely, negotiate a longer lunch break to take your dog out.
Pet-Sitting Platforms
Online platforms like Rover and Fetch connect you with dog walkers, sitters, boarding and daycare. These services can be convenient, though they may also be costly.
In Nashville, a typical 30-minute Rover walk for Finn (about 90 lbs) runs $15–$20; in my hometown of Dayton, Ohio, prices are closer to $10–$15.
Luckily, I was able to arrange a more flexible schedule with my employer to go home and walk Finn each day. But if your budget allows for doggy day care, the right facility can be worth the investment. Just pick a place that makes both you and your dog comfortable.
Daniel Hart is an editor and dog dad who enjoys writing in his spare time. He recently moved to the Nashville area and is eager to explore the city with his partner: go Preds!
