Every daycare facility is set up differently and is operated in a unique way. Here are some policies and strategies that may differ between facilities, and PPDD’s approach to ensuring a safe environment.

• Toys vs No Toys: Many daycares allow toys in playgroups, which can add extra excitement and fun for the dogs. They often make sure dogs know how to share and play nicely with toys on a dog’s first day. Due to the added risk of resource guarding and over-arousal, we do not use toys in playgroups at PPDD. We do have other activities to keep the dogs entertained, such as bubbles, pools, and climbing equipment. We also offer individual Playtime Plus sessions, for dogs who love a game of fetch or frisbee.

 

• Treats vs No Treats: Treats are used during our Play and Train and Canine Adventure sessions. In our daycare setting, we are particular about when to bring treats into the group. We need to know who has allergies or sensitive stomachs, and ensure dogs won’t become possessive of handlers who carry treats. Some clients bring special treats on their dog’s birthday, which we pass out individually in a separate area.

 

• Collars vs No Collars: Collars are very helpful in identifying dogs in large groups, which is why some daycares allow or require them. However, there is also a risk of the collars getting stuck or twisted, which can cause strangulation. For this reason, we have all collars removed at check-in. This includes training collars, which is explained below.

 

• Aversive Corrections vs Positive Reinforcement: PPDD adheres to science-based Positive Reinforcement training methods and handling. This means we do not use e-collars (shock collars), spray bottles, or physical corrections to manage the dogs in our care. If we have concerns regarding your dog’s behavior, we will be transparent and provide suggestions or training options. If we are not able to manage behavior in a positive way while your dog is with us, training may be required before we re-evaluate your dog to ensure safe and manageable play.

 

• "All Day Play" vs “Crate and Rotate”: Some daycares structure their day so that while one group is playing,  another group is resting in crates or kennels. This lowers overhead costs, ensures dogs are well rested, and allows for a higher capacity. Other daycares have their dogs out playing together all day, ensuring a tired dog is sent home at the end of the day. PPDD is a blend between the two strategies. We have several individual pens with comfy cots available to use as needed, for dogs who prefer to rest throughout the day. Many dogs learn to rest/nap between play on their own, and others need more guidance and structure with their play/rest schedule.

 

• Playgroup Separation: We have 3 different playgroups. Typically they are used for “Littles”, “Bigs”, and “Calms”, but this can vary based on group dynamics and which dogs are scheduled. We consider not only size when assigning playgroups, but also energy level and temperament. Occasionally, we have a smaller dog who enjoys the activity level of bigger dogs, and often have seniors or shy dogs who prefer a lower activity room. Each day is slightly different, and we assign based on your dog’s preference, with safety in mind.

 

• Neuter/Spay Requirements: Over the years, we have done a lot of research as to when dogs should be spayed or neutered before attending group play. Although there is no perfect answer, as dogs can reach sexual maturity at varying times (usually between 4 and 8 months), we have learned that 6 months is the appropriate age to require dogs to be fixed to keep our playgroups safe and balanced. Some dogs may begin “puberty” earlier or later, but 6 months is typical. When a dog begins to hit sexual maturity, the dynamics of the group can change and cause tension between dogs. Some breeders and vets suggest large/giant breeds wait until dogs are 1 year, or have gone through their first heat cycle before being fixed. If clients choose to wait, they will be excluded from group play until they have been fixed, and then can be reevaluated.

 

• Staff to Dog Ratio and Space per Dog: Michigan does not regulate the pet care industry, but many states require at least one handler for 15 dogs, 50 feet of floor space per small dog, and 100 feet per large dog. To keep our groups manageable and safe, we follow these guidelines at PPPD.

Additional safety measures at PPDD:

• Required Staff Training: All Daycare Attendants are required to complete in-depth training regarding how dogs communicate before running playgroups. We provide reading material and written quizzes on body language and handling skills, then an additional 8 shadow shifts and passing of a practical test for all new staff.

 

• CPR/First Aid Training: All full-timers and majority of the part-time staff have completed a Pet CPR/First Aid Training course. We learned how to spot signs of illnesses such as bloat, heat stroke, seizures,  etc. and how to handle them with urgency if an emergency arises.

 

• Daily Cleaning: All staff are trained on how to properly clean and disinfect surfaces. We use Top Performance 256 to clean floors, walls, and play equipment every night. Outdoor yards are rinsed and disinfected during warmer months, and additionally weekly and monthly cleaning is completed as well.

 

• COVID-19: Our outdoor check-in area was created when PPDD re-opened after the 2020 shut down. This allows for social distancing between staff and clients. We follow all guidelines set forth by the CDC to keep our staff and clients safe and healthy.

At 7am, Neko arrives for her first daycare visit. She eagerly greets the staff and bolts through the door with confidence to check out this new exciting place. As other dogs enter the playroom, Neko playfully bows and urges them to chase her. She had no idea she could have this much fun. More dogs keep coming, which means more friends for Neko!

That same morning in the playgroup next door, Bailey has also arrived for her first day of daycare. She seems unsure and is pacing, looking for her mom. An employee sits with her to slowly earn her trust. Bailey makes herself small, avoiding interaction with the other dogs. For a while, she clings to her new human friend, wondering what this place is and why she's there. She's never been left at a strange place with strange people and dogs before.

After being leashed and calmly walked around the room, Bailey starts to relax, but doesn't know why these other dogs keep sniffing her. They keep inviting her to play, but Bailey isn't sure how yet or if she even wants to play right now. Still wondering where mom is and why she left her with strangers, she musters up a tail wag and maybe even sniffs a couple of her new potential friends.

In the meantime, Neko has made roughly 10 new best friends. They wrestle, they run, and they wrestle some more. Neko is having the time of her life! 

By noon, Neko and Bailey are both napping in their respective groups. Neko has been running and playing with friends all morning, so she needs to recharge before she gets her second wind. This has been a successful day of fun and socializing. Bailey on the other hand, is feeling a bit more comfortable than earlier, but is exhausted from the morning introductions. She was introduced to new dogs, new people, and had new smells to take in. This is also a successful day of socializing. 

On Bailey's second visit, she hesitates for a moment, but she seems relieved to see a familiar face. She knows she'll be safe and her family will pick her up. She greets her new friends, and even plays for a few minutes. 

After a few more visits, Bailey races in the door and doesn't look back. She has things to do and people to see! 
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Every dog acclimates to social environments at their own pace. Just like with humans, dogs also have different tolerance levels for social situations depending on their prior experiences away from home, history with other dogs, and their confidence level. And truth be told, some dogs never adjust to group play. Some dogs find the activity overwhelming and simply prefer the comfort of their own home with family, or might enjoy an occasional play date with a known friend. Some dogs even prefer time alone instead, and that's okay. Not every dog has to be social.

But some dogs, like Bailey, if given the chance, might just become a social butterfly. As much as we love to see new dogs like Neko make friends right away, we're always rooting for the ones who spend their first day looking for mom.
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Thank you for reading! Stay tuned for more!