Doggie Day Care Providers: Don't Leave Your Pooch Alone

No matter how much you love your dog, there are times you can't be with him. You may be working long hours at the office, you might have to go on an extended business trip, or perhaps the vacation you have planned isn't to a "dog friendly" destination. There are more and more options for pet owners to make sure their dog is well cared for and has fun when they can't be around.

Some dogs do not cope well with being left alone while their owner is working 12-hour days. All dogs need socialization and companionship, preferably with us but also with other dogs. High energy dogs in particular don't want to just sit around the house all day and snooze. Dogs that are bored can become destructive dogs, with unpleasant consequences for possessions in your house.

If your work schedule is demanding, you might consider dropping your dog off at a day care center. These facilities typically take care of dogs from early morning to early evening, generally from rush hour to rush hour, but in some cases they offer overnight boarding as well.

Depending on the facility, they offer socialization with other dogs in a group setting, play periods outside and inside, treats, toys, grooming and other forms of attention. Good day care centers offer a range of activities for your dog; he doesn't just spend the day in a kennel. The advantage is that romping with other dogs all day can tire out the most energetic canine, and when you pick your buddy up after work and take him home, he will be contented to settle in for a quiet evening with you. The disadvantage of taking your dog to day care each morning is that the cost can be substantial over the course of a month, though some facilities give you a price break if you sign up for more than one day at a time. Fees of $12-$20 per day are typical.

Check the facility for cleanliness, friendliness of the staff, and how the dogs are reacting when in doggie day care. Of course there may be a mess that was just created right before you arrived, but the place shouldn't smell or look dirty. The staff should be friendly both to you and your dog. Different dogs will react differently when left but most should be happy with tails wagging and glad to see the staffers, not cowering or locked up in crates.