Tips for Preparing Your Dog for Their First Day at Daycare

Starting dog daycare is an exciting milestone for both you and your pup! Whether you're returning to work, travelling, or just looking to provide your dog with more exercise and social interaction, daycare offers countless benefits. But just like a child's first day of school, preparing your dog helps ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. At Dogs Tail Inc. in Calgary, Alberta, we make your dog's first day at daycare comfortable, safe, and fun. With our dedicated staff, engaging play areas, and focus on safety and enrichment, we're proud to be a trusted choice for dog daycare services. Here are our top tips to help prepare your furry friend for their first day with us. Read on to learn more!

Schedule a Meet-and-Greet at Our Facility

Before your pup's first full day, it's helpful to familiarize them with the environment. At Dogs Tail Inc., we encourage new clients to visit our facility for a tour and temperament evaluation. This allows your dog to meet our team, explore the space, and become acquainted with the daycare setting's sights, smells, and sounds. A pre-visit helps reduce anxiety on the first official day and allows our team to assess your dog's play style and social comfort.

Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Safety is a top priority at any reputable dog daycare. At Dogs Tail Inc., we require all dogs to be up to date on their core vaccinations, including Rabies, Bordetella (kennel cough), and DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza). Be sure to provide your vet records and ensure vaccinations are completed at least 48 hours before your dog's first visit. This keeps your dog—and every other dog in our care—safe and healthy.

Pack the Essentials for Comfort and Safety

We recommend bringing a few familiar items to make your pup feel at home. According to our "What to Bring to Daycare" guide, essentials include a labelled leash and collar, any required medication, and a portioned meal if your dog needs to eat during their stay. Some dogs may also benefit from bringing a favourite blanket or toy to offer comfort during breaks. Our staff ensures that all items are stored safely and that your pup's belongings are returned at pick-up.

Ease Into the Daycare Routine Gradually

If your dog has never been away from you or around other dogs for long periods, it's a good idea to ease them into daycare gradually. You might start with a half-day session to allow them to get used to the new environment without becoming overwhelmed. At Dogs Tail Inc., we offer flexible booking options so your dog can transition at their own pace. Our trained staff closely monitors all dogs during their first visits to ensure they adjust well and have a positive experience.

Prepare for a Tired Pup After Playtime

Don't be surprised if your dog is more tired than usual after their first day at daycare! Dogs experience a lot of mental and physical stimulation during group play, socialization, and structured activities. This level of engagement can be exhausting for first-timers. Make sure your pup has access to fresh water and a quiet space to rest once you get home. The more they attend daycare, the more stamina and confidence they'll build.

Stay Positive and Calm During Drop-Off

Dogs are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. Your dog may feel the same way if you're anxious or overly emotional at drop-off. Instead, keep your goodbyes short, upbeat, and reassuring. At Dogs Tail Inc., our friendly staff will enthusiastically greet your pup, helping them easily transition from your arms to their daycare playgroup. By projecting calm and positivity, you're helping your dog feel safe and confident in their new environment.

Choose Dogs Tail Inc. for the Best Dog Daycare in Calgary

Starting daycare is a big step in your dog's life, and choosing the right facility makes all the difference. At Dogs Tail Inc. in Calgary, Alberta, we offer a clean, spacious, and nurturing environment where dogs can socialize, play, and thrive. From our experienced staff and tailored playgroups to our safety-first approach and personalized care, we go above and beyond to ensure every pup has a positive experience. Contact us today to learn more about our dog daycare services or to book your dog's first day with us!