Sending your dog to daycare for the first time can feel like a big step, both for you and your furry friend. Whether you're working long hours, need some extra help handling your pup’s energy, or want to give them an opportunity to socialize, Dogtopia’s Portland locations offer a safe and fun environment. But the first day can be a little overwhelming for both dogs and their owners.
Here are some tips to help make your dog’s first day at Dogtopia Portland a smooth and positive experience.
Check Health and Vaccination Requirements
Before your dog’s first day, it’s important to make sure they meet our health and vaccination requirements. Dogtopia requires vaccinations for rabies, DHPP/DHLPP (distemper/parvovirus), and Bordetella to keep all dogs safe and healthy. Be sure to send your dog's vaccination records in advance to streamline the check-in process and ensure pup dog is ready to go!
Plan for a Trial Day
Many Dogtopia locations, including those in Portland, offer a free introductory session for new dogs. Taking advantage of this opportunity allows your dog to familiarize themselves with the environment, meet the team, and socialize with other dogs in a controlled setting. This can help ease any anxiety and make their official first day feel less overwhelming. Plus, your dog will get a feel for the space, and you’ll have a chance to see how they interact with our team and other pups.
Communicate with the Dogtopia Team
Open communication with our daycare team is key to ensuring your dog’s first day goes smoothly. If your pup is feeling a bit under the weather, has a specific quirk or behavior you’d like addressed, or even if they’ve recently had an exciting (or stressful) experience, be sure to share those details. Dogtopia’s trained staff will adjust to your dog’s needs, ensuring they have an exciting and safe experience.
Pack for the Day
Just like any outing, you’ll want to pack a few essentials for your dog’s first day at Dogtopia in Portland. If your dog is on a regular feeding schedule, make sure to bring along their lunch or any snacks they might need.
If your dog is staying overnight, don’t forget to bring along any comfort items they might need like a favorite blanket or toy that smells like home to help them feel at ease in the new environment.
Stay Calm at Drop-Off
As you get ready to say goodbye, remember that dogs can pick up on our emotions. If you’re anxious or excited, your dog will feel that, too. Stay calm, confident, and positive when dropping them off. A quick and upbeat goodbye helps prevent separation anxiety and sets a positive tone for their day. Trust that the Dogtopia team will take excellent care of your pup, and they’ll be off to make new friends in no time.
Ready to get started? Book your Meet & Greet today and let’s make your dog’s first day at Dogtopia in Portland the best one yet!