Dog sitting has taken on a new dimension in the form of doggy daycare. Catering to the plush comforts of the pampered pup as well as the rough and tumble antics of the sporting hound, doggy daycare does not stash its guests away in kennels or crates but treats them with special comforts, good food and fun, much like kids’ camp.
Dog boarding used to be the kennel where families dropped off the dog when they went on vacation or on an extended business trip. Nowadays, doggy daycare has become more affordable and is used much like child daycare.
Some Amenities Doggy Daycare Offers
- Play groups
- Games
- Swimming pool
- Piped in music
- Area for nonsocial dogs
- Television
- Grooming
- Massage
- Veterinarians on call
- Webcam
The Lonely Dog
In today’s world, many people work long hours, have long commutes, and may be away from home for nine to twelve hours every work day. Every morning, they look into Max’s sad eyes one last time, close the door and leave for work. All day long they’re haunted by visions of Max lying sadly on the rug, bored to whines, waiting, waiting, and waiting. They look forward to the end of the long day and to Max’s welcoming wags but feel guilty that their ‘baby’ has been alone for all those hours.
At best, Max welcomes them home, leaping into their arms with excessive energy, and licking their face with affection. They collapse on the sofa but Max wants to play ball, visit the neighbor dog, and go for a walk, all at the same time!
At worst, Max meets them at the door and moments later, they discover a shattered lamp and a shredded pillow, a wet rug and a chewed remote. Perhaps there’s a note from an angry neighbor about relentless howling. Max is not a bad dog. He simply felt overwhelmingly alone and tried to amuse himself in the only way a dog knows – by exploring, chewing and calling for his long lost human.
The New Puppy
Another scenario is the family who has just adopted a puppy. Puppies are like human babies in that they must eat often and potty often. House training requires diligence in taking the puppy outside at regular intervals. If he spends long hours in a crate or laundry room, he can’t be expected to learn proper manners or potty etiquette.
Both Max and the new puppy would probably love to spend their days at a doggy daycare.
Benefits of Doggy Daycare
- Fun for dogs and relieves boredom
- Exercises hyperactive dogs
- Helps dogs maintain proper weight
- Provides socialization for puppies
- Provides a potty schedule for puppies
- Prevents complaints about howling
- Prevents destructive behavior
Related Reading:
