Dog daycares are not only enjoyable and beneficial for your dog in a number of ways, but they also benefit you, the pet owner, too. If you’ve toyed around with the idea of sending your precious pup to a doggy daycare but are unsure about these uncharted waters, we’re here to dispel any fears you may have.
Sending your dog to a daycare every few days, if not every day, can be transformative and healthy for him, and he would thank you if he could talk! Here is why you should send your dog to a dog daycare.
Socialization
Anybody who has a dog is aware of the fact that dogs are extremely social. Not only do they adore human company, but they also love spending time with their own kind. Dogs love meeting new people and new doggies, making friends with them and garnering lots of pats, cuddles and compliments (and sniffs). Dog daycares great for dogs in this regard, as they get to interact with lots of other dogs and people and play to their heart’s content with their new friends.
The Right Routine
Staying home, eating, and sleeping can make your dog a couch potato. No activity and no routine can make him lazy, lethargic, and can even cause him to put on weight, which eventually leads to physical health issues.
It’s always good for your dog to have a routine, just as it is good for humans. Waking up at a certain time and going to the daycare as you leave for work can give him a sense of routine, which is healthy for him in the long run.
Attention
We know you love to shower your dog with attention, but sometimes it just becomes hard to give your dog the time it needs. This is especially if you have children that need attention, a challenging job that demands your time, or other commitments that don’t let you spend as much time with your dog as you want.
Your dog won’t understand your reasons for ignoring him, of course; he will just feel sad at the lack of attention from his favorite person. We know you have a lot on your plate, and we totally understand. The best solution is to take your dog to a daycare where he can get sufficient attention from humans and dogs alike, so he is never left wanting for more.
Safe Playgrounds
Most houses aren’t big enough for a dog to play around in… well, not without breaking something, that is. You might not have a good dog park nearby to take him to, and you certainly can’t let him out unsupervised because the streets are not safe for your furbaby. Most daycares have safe indoor and outdoor playing ground where your dog can let loose and roam free under the supervision of the trained carers, who look after your dog as it plays.
Develop Confidence
Dogs have personalities too. Some are friendly and bold, while some are shy and reserved. While being shy isn’t an issue that needs fixing, low self-confidence is. If your dog is scared or anxious when it comes to social situations or different surroundings, it could lead him to become a hermit, which will bring along physical and mental health problems of its own.
You must do all you can to develop his confidence. One of the best ways is to introduce him to other dogs and people at the dog daycare. Being at a daycare without you, surrounded by friendly faces, will eventually allow him to trust and develop confidence.
Less Pet Parent Guilt
Adopting a pet is one of the most wholesome and fulfilling things in life, but bear in mind, you are also signing up for constant pet parent guilt. Many pet parents say they are plagued by guilt every time they come home late from work, go to events and parties, or for a weekend retreat, leaving their dog alone at home.
The thought of your poor puppy alone at home waiting for you to come back is enough to make anybody feel guilty. Well, you don’t have to feel bad about enjoying yourself. You can simply drop your dog at a good daycare, so both of you are out and about, having fun. We assure you; your dog won’t even miss you when he is among other dogs.
Some Quality Alone Time
We know you love your dog, but sometimes, you need a little bit of Me time. Having children or pets is a full-time responsibility, and we don’t blame you for wanting some time where you can kick back, relax, and not worry about anything. Dog daycares can help you achieve just that. Do you want a quiet Sunday to yourself? Drop your dog off at the dog daycare and spend the day by yourself without having to worry about your dog, because he will be having the time of his life at the daycare. Everybody deserves some time off, and dog daycares make it more than possible for you.
Exercise
Exercise is extremely important for dogs, and all dog parents know this. It is the number one chore that every dog parent must undertake when they bring a dog into their home. Different sized and aged dogs have different exercise needs, and a mere walk around the street might not be sufficient enough for them to burn off their energy. They need more – running freely in a dog park, going hiking, play-fighting with other dogs, playing fetch, and running through hoops.
But alas, most pet parents do not have the time or energy to entertain these wishes. However, dog daycares have designated exercising and playing times where your dog can get the exercise he truly needs under the supervision of the carers.
Helps with Separation Anxiety
Your dog loves you and might be excessively attached to you. Though it’s cute to see how your dog can’t live without you, it’s actually not good for them. You obviously have other chores and responsibilities in life and can’t stay with your dog 24/7. When your dog has had very little exposure to other people and environments and is used to being around you only, he can develop separation anxiety when you leave.
You don’t want him to feel that way every time you step out of your house, would you? Going to a daycare regularly and spending a little time away from you every day is actually healthy for him and lessens his separation anxiety.
Good for the Pup’s Mental Health
Physical health is extremely important, and most dog parents pay enough importance to it while ignoring a dog’s mental health. Dogs are sensitive and emotional beings, too, and need the right love, care and validation. Not getting sufficient attention or company may result in your dog becoming bored, lonely, anxious, and depressed. Dog daycares are actually incredible when it comes to helping you keep your dog’s mental health in check. Your pup will get enough love, attention, and playtime with other dogs and dog carers, which means it will be happier than those dogs who might stay at home alone all day or in environments where their mental health isn’t taken care of.
It is not easy to pick out a dog daycare that you would trust your dog with. We’re sure you only want the best for your dog. You can come take a look at the Twissted Whiskers Pet Hotel and Spa, where we provide dog daycare centers with the most gentle, trained and professional dog carers who will make sure your dog feels right at home. We’re sure your furbaby will love it!
