Is it Safe For Me to Bring My Dog to Daycare?

Working from home (and more time spent at home) has been a major adjustment for many people- and dogs!

With uncertainty swirling around the future, some dog owners may be wondering if it’s safe to send their beloved canines to daycare.

Of course, everyone’s situation is different, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision fit for you and your paw pal. 

But, if you’re having trouble getting work done or you feel like your dog is bored at home, here’s why doggie daycare is a safe, positive place to send your pup during the pandemic.

COVID-19 in dogs is rare

On June 22, 2020 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released an official statement saying it’s low risk for coronavirus to be shared between animals and humans. See below:

“At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.”(CDC)

Your dog is left in a professional, clean and safe environment

Social distancing is important for safety, and this is something that doggie daycare can offer that dog parks can’t. 

At dog parks, you can try to social distance, but you might be put in situations where you need to interact with other dog owners, especially off-the-leash. 

When you drop your dog off at daycare, they are left in a clean atmosphere where a trained professional will play and watch her all day. 

There’s less interaction with other humans on your part- just look into the pandemic safety measures put in place at your daycare.

Stay home or go to doggie daycare?

Staying at home is always the safest option, but your dog misses out on vital socialization, exercise and mental stimulation. 

Doggie daycare-even just a couple of times a week- can help your dog feel happy and relaxed instead of bored and restless. 

The CDC recommends that if you do bring your dog to daycare, follow safety precautions by wearing a mask, social distancing and washing hands often. 

Try not to bring many items, such as toys, to the daycare, and if you do, make sure to sanitize them with an EPA approved cleaning solution when you get home. 

NEVER wash your dog with chemical disinfectants. Your normal pet shampoo is fine.