What are the requirements for my dog to attend daycare?

If you’re interested in daycare, please fill out our online application. Once submitted, we will contact you to schedule a temperament test. We require all doggy daycare members to have passed the 1-hour temperament evaluation. This evaluation allows us to observe how your dog interacts and reacts to other dogs and how they might behave on a full day of daycare. If an existing doggy daycare member has not attended daycare in more than 6 months, we recommend scheduling another temperament evaluation. Before any dog is allowed into daycare, we require proof of current vaccine records including Bordetella, Distemper, and Rabies. It is also required that all dogs be spayed or neutered by 7 months of age.

What are the benefits of taking my dog to daycare?

Dogs are social pack animals and benefit from being able to interact with other dogs. They can learn to properly socialize, burn energy, and have fun!

Why is it required my dog be spayed or neutered?

Most dogs react differently to intact dogs and this causes increased stress among the pack, this can result in conflicts and aggressive behaviors.

Why did my dog not pass the temperament test? 

Not all dogs are suited for or enjoy the environment of doggy daycare and that's OK! This does not mean they are bad or vicious dogs. It also does not necessarily mean your dog doesn’t like being with other dogs. If a dog shows signs of increased stress or discomfort such as excessive drooling, pacing, cowering, or attempts to escape, daycare may be overwhelming for your dog. Aggressive behaviors such as snapping, growling, lunging, reactivity, or asserting dominance are determining factors of whether your dog will pass the temperament test. If any incidents or concerns arise during the temperament test, we will contact you to pick up your dog immediately. We want the best possible experience for you and your dog in daycare and in most cases we’re willing to work with you to overcome or cope with your dog’s hindrances. However, some behaviors are just not safe for the daycare environment.

What happens during a temperament test?

A temperament test is required for all dogs who are interested in attending daycare or boarding. It is a 1-hour long, free-of-charge, visit in which the owner drops their dog off, provides the required vaccinations, and leaves for the 1-hour. During the 1-hour evaluation, our objective is to determine whether this dog will be a safe addition to the pack and enjoy socializing with other dogs. We limit the number of dogs initially in the play area upon the arrival of the new dog. Gradually, we introduce dogs into the play area based on how the new dog reacts. During the entirety of the evaluation, there is staff closely monitoring the body language and behavior of the new dog. Should any serious concerns arise, the temperament test will be concluded, the dog will likely be moved to an isolated area, and we will contact you to pick your dog up immediately. Keep in mind that a dog’s behavior may change with time and although they may have passed the temperament test, issues may arise at a later time of which we will then inform the owner that daycare may no longer be a good match for your pup.

What should I expect when my dog comes home from daycare?

After a day of daycare your dog will most likely come home hungry, thirsty, and very tired. This is normal. During play, dogs might not take the time to stop and drink as much as they should. We always have fresh water available but many dogs are too distracted with playing.

Do I need to make a reservation for daycare?

No, reservations are not required for daycare. We only ask that daycare dogs be dropped off before 1PM.

What do the dogs do all day in daycare?

There are always plenty of friends for your dog to play with! Some dogs play all day long, consisting of jumping, barking, running, and wrestling. Other dogs prefer to enjoy the outdoor areas and some spend time soaking up the love and attention from the Gnarly crew. 

Still have questions?

Just ask! We're happy to help!