Finding the right doggy daycare is essential for peace of mind in knowing your little (or big) one is being looked after while you are occupied at work or running errands, or whatever the case may be. There are some key elements to look for when choosing a daycare facility. These include:

• Cleanliness - There should not be a strong dog odor when you walk in the door, nor should there be a strong smell of cleaning chemicals. The facility should smell fresh, be free of debris and have an overall feeling of health and well being.
• Friendliness - The staff should not only be upbeat and dog friendly, but people friendly too. Trainers often say their job is more of a people job than a dog job.  Daycare staff should be able to connect with you and make you feel assured that your dog is being taken care of and readily answer any questions you may have.
• Knowledgeable - The staff should know how to handle emergency situations, how to assure the best case scenario for a new dog coming into the mix, how to handle your dog in any given situation with kindness and respect, and all the while keeping your dogs emotional and physical well being in mind.
• Fun - Daycare should be about your dog having a good time.  The playroom should have a variety of things for your dog to do.  Toys are generally not allowed in daycare facilities because some dogs become very possessive about them and a conflict could develop as a result. 
• Rest - A balance of play and rest is essential.  Look for comfortable and clean bedding for your dog in the facility.  Some daycare centers are cage-less and dogs can rest as they choose and play when they desire, others have a balance of structured time.
• Safe - Choose a daycare facility that has measures in place to assure that you or an appointed guardian are the only ones who can pick up your dog.  Also, make sure the facility is in a good area and that it is secure.  When you walk in the door, someone should be at the desk to greet you. Cameras are also a wonderful element to make sure dogs are playing safely and the facility is secure.
• Flexibility - Finding a daycare that offers flexible hours where you can pay for the time that you need, is most ideal.  Also being able to come only on the days you choose and at your own discretion without a fee is very important.  Some facilities charge a late fee if you arrive after a certain hour in the morning.  This is to assure the dogs establish themselves together well.  It makes a lot of sense to do this and it is best for the dogs. There is also generally a late fee if you pick your dog up after a certain hour. This is very customary.
• Training - While doggy daycare is not a place to drop off your dog to be trained for you, it should be a place where the training that you have done is reaffirmed.

Trust your gut instinct when you visit a facility.  It's always a good idea to show up without an appointment and ask for a tour.  A good daycare facility should not have anything to hide and should be happy to show you around. 

Daycare is a great way to bring enrichment to your dog's day.  Proper socialization is important in making sure your dog is happy and welcome in many different situations. There are a variety of daycare facilities with different philosophies and approach.  Find one that makes you and your dog comfortable and don't compromise on quality.