Choosing the Best Day Care Solution for Your Dog

It's time to go to work and Fido is left alone all day to his own devices. For the sake of your home and your dog's sanity, you may want to consider doggie day care. Work, school, travel, and other things may take you away from your pet. Day care will provide them with the attention they crave when you're not around.

Several different day care options are available for your dog. Each has its own advantages. Dog owners should look into each option carefully before making a decision. Some dogs will do better with people only, while others will work great with other dogs. You should know your dog's needs and attitude well before choosing a type of day care.

~Dog Walker

A dog walker comes to you, so no extra travel time on your part. Dog walkers walk your dog and make sure it gets plenty of exercise. Often times, they will even take care of some simple household tasks while they are around. A dog walker provides your dog with someone to be with while you're away. Costs depend on how often the dog walker is needed and how much they do. If you have them tidying up, getting the mail, and taking care of your dog, then they will probably charge more than if they just took your dog for a quick walk once a day.

Dog walkers may take on several dogs at once, so know the details before hiring one. If your dog is very social then other dogs will not be a problem. However, less sociable dogs will require a dog walker's full attention.

~Friends and Family

Don't forget about your friends and family. Odds are your dog knows them already. See if they are willing to come by your home to watch after your beloved pet. They may also be willing to let you drop the dog off as you go to work or wherever you need to go. If they charge you anything at all, it will be much less than other day care options. With friends and family, you know your dog is with someone trustworthy and you will not have to worry while you're gone.

~Pet Sitter

Pet sitters are similar to dog walkers. However, a pet sitter actually stays at your home. They are the animal kingdoms version of a baby sitter. They can help take care of your home while provided the care and attention your dog needs while you're away. These sitters will cost a little bit more than dog walkers and friends and family.

~Doggie Day Care

There are actually day care centers for dogs. These are great for social dogs. There is staff on hand to carefully watch all activity between dogs and make certain everyone gets along. They make certain your dog gets plenty of exercise and helps dogs to make new friends.

In choosing a facility, ask for references. Also ask plenty of questions. The staff should be extremely knowledgeable. Ask about the application process to see if your dog qualifies. You should tour the facility and see how well the dogs are monitored. Make sure the facility requires normal vaccines and flea and tick medication. Checking the facility carefully makes sure your dog will be somewhere safe and fun.

Dogs that are left alone for long periods of time tend to be depressed and even aggressive. Providing some type of day care for your dog will help them to be happy and healthy. The relationship between you and your dog will be even better than before because they know you truly care.