April 22, 2025 –
This blog was guest written by Camp Bow Wow as part of our monthly Business Partnership Program.
What to Look for in a Dog Daycare or Boarding Facility
Finding the right place for your dog to stay—whether for the day or a longer boarding stay—can feel overwhelming. You want to know your dog will be safe, cared for, and happy while you’re away. A quality pet care provider should offer a balance of supervision, enrichment, safety, and comfort. Below are a few key features to look for when choosing a daycare or boarding facility for your pup.
Attentive, Knowledgeable Staff
When your dog is in someone else’s care, it’s reassuring to know they’re being watched by people who understand canine behavior. Staff trained in dog body language, First Aid, and CPR can better respond to each dog’s emotional and physical needs. This helps prevent problems before they start and ensures swift, appropriate care in case of an emergency.
At Camp Bow Wow, our staff are certified in dog CPR and First Aid and receive specialized training in dog behavior, helping them provide informed, compassionate care to every pup.
Safe and Supervised Socialization
For many dogs, the chance to play with others is a highlight of their day. Social interaction helps burn energy, supports mental stimulation, and builds confidence. But for it to be beneficial, playtime needs to be supervised and structured. Dogs should be grouped by size and temperament, and monitored to ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable.
Camp Bow Wow offers group play in carefully monitored play yards, where dogs are grouped appropriately and supervised at all times by trained staff.
Health and Safety Protocols
A quality facility should have clear safety policies to reduce the risk of illness and injury. This might include vaccination requirements, daily wellness checks, clean and sanitized environments, and secure fencing or entry protocols. These measures help ensure that all dogs—no matter how short or long their stay—are protected.
At Camp Bow Wow, every dog must pass a behavioral assessment and meet vaccination requirements. Our facilities follow rigorous cleaning protocols and safety procedures to keep dogs healthy and secure.
Peace of Mind Through Transparency
Being away from your dog can be stressful, but having visibility into their day can make all the difference. Some facilities offer tools—like live webcams—that let you peek in throughout the day, so you can see your dog playing, resting, or interacting with others in real time. This kind of transparency builds trust and provides comfort for pet parents.
Camp Bow Wow offers live webcams in play areas, giving pet parents a virtual window into their dog’s day—whether you’re running errands or halfway across the country.
Comfortable Resting Spaces
Just like people, dogs need downtime after socializing and play. Look for a facility that offers calm, designated rest areas where dogs can decompress. Bonus points if your dog can bring familiar bedding or toys to make their stay feel more like home. Proper rest spaces can reduce anxiety and support better behavior and health overall.
Camp Bow Wow provides private Cabins for rest and overnight stays. These quiet spaces are separate from the play areas and offer room for your pup to settle in with their own bedding or favorite toy.
One Place for All Their Needs
Having one go-to location for your dog’s daycare, boarding, and grooming can simplify your life and help your dog feel more at ease. Familiar environments and routines reduce stress and allow staff to build strong relationships with your pup over time.
In addition to daycare and boarding, Camp Bow Wow also offers grooming services—making it easy for pet parents to meet multiple needs in one convenient, dog-friendly location.
Making the Right Choice
Not every care option is the same. In-home pet sitters or app-based services may offer convenience, but they often lack the structure, socialization, or safety protocols that many dogs benefit from in a professional facility. As a pet parent, it’s worth taking the time to evaluate your dog’s personality, activity level, and health needs to choose the best fit.
Camp Bow Wow is proud to provide a safe, structured, and enriching experience for dogs of all shapes and sizes. Our trained staff, secure facilities, and commitment to transparency help pet parents feel confident and supported—whether for the day or an extended stay.
Still deciding what kind of pet care is best for your dog?
Every dog—and every family—is different. Here’s a quick comparison of common features to help guide your decision.
Camp Bow Wow isn’t just here for long-term care through boarding. All locations also offer day care and grooming, providing your pup with socialization, exercise, and hygiene support all in one place. Pet parents across North America continue to recommend Camp Bow Wow for its consistent care, trained staff, and fun-filled environment.
Learn more about Camp Bow Wow and give your pup the safe, fun, and worry-free experience they deserve.
