Ready, Set, Play! Tips for Your Dog’s First Day of Daycare at Pawesome Pets

Your dog’s first day of daycare can feel a little like the first day of school—exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of new experiences. At Pawesome Pets Country Club, we’ve helped countless pups through their first day, and we know a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help make the experience smooth for both you and your furry friend:

1. Schedule an Early Morning Drop-Off Time
   Arriving early allows your dog to meet other early-bird pups gradually and get settled before the playgroups are in full swing. It’s a softer start that helps ease them into the environment rather than dropping them into high-energy chaos.

2. Stay Calm to Ease Your Dog’s Nerves
   Dogs are incredibly intuitive and pick up on your emotions. If you’re nervous or unsure, they might be too. A calm, confident attitude helps signal that this is a safe and positive place—one where tail wags are encouraged.

3. Keep Drop-Off Quick and Cheerful
   We know it’s hard to say goodbye, especially the first time, but a prolonged farewell can make your pup feel uncertain. A cheerful tone, a quick goodbye, and a confident exit set the tone for a positive day.

4. Skip the Bath and Nail Trim
   We recommend saving spa day for another time. Coming in with their natural scent intact helps your dog feel more secure—and it’s helpful for socialization, too, since other dogs identify each other primarily through scent. Additionally, a first day in a new environment can be overwhelming for some dogs. Adding on a bath or nail trim can increase their first-day anxiety. It’s best to allow your a few weeks to acclimate to a daycare facility before scheduling baths and nail trims. 

5. Use a Standard Leash, Not Retractable
   For everyone’s safety, we ask that pets arrive on a standard leash. It gives us more control and avoids any entanglements during check-in or introductions.

Become a Member at Pawesome Pets Country Club

Investing in regular daycare with enrichment activities at Pawesome Pets Country Club is one of the best things you can do for your dog’s overall well-being. Not only will it provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need, but it will also help them become a more well-rounded and confident companion. Give your dog the gift of a fun, engaging, and fulfilling day.

At Pawesome Pets Country Club, your pup will enjoy weekly interactive activities as well as play time and socialization, letting them experience a day filled with joy and relaxation. We are so happy to help contribute to your dog’s overall well-being at Pawesome Pets and beyond.

If you’re looking for enrichment-based dog daycare, dog boarding, and small pet boarding, book now! Not sure what membership package or boarding option you need? Contact us!l