How does daycare work at Pets In The City?

You drop your dog off in the morning and pick up by close. Dogs play, rest and learn in small, well-matched groups all day.

Will my dog be safe in a group?

Yes. Trained staff watch every group. We match dogs by size, age and play style. Quiet rest breaks happen every few hours.

What does my dog need to start?

Up-to-date DHPP and Bordetella shots, plus a short trial day so we can match the right group for your dog.

Is my dog too old for daycare?

We welcome senior dogs. We give them quieter rooms and shorter play bursts so the day stays fun, not tiring.

How often should my dog come?

Most dogs do well with two or three days a week. That keeps them social and well-rested in equal measure.

First Time Using Dog Daycare in Auckland

First Time Using Dog Daycare in Auckland? Here's Everything You Need to Know If you're an Auckland dog parent juggling work, travel, and life, dog daycare can be a game-changer. It keeps your pup active and social while giving you guilt-free breathing room. Dog Daycare Auckland 101: Safety, standards, and costs You pick a dog daycare in Auckland on three core factors: safety, staff expertise, and your dog's comfort with the setting. Top centres use force-free handling, structured play, and calm rest breaks. What good looks like in Auckland: Ask about force-free handling and staff training in dog body language. Expect up-to-date vaccinations, staff background checks, incident reporting, and written emergency procedures. Staff-to-dog ratios around 1 to 8. Rates and package deals vary by centre — check the pricing section on your nearest Pets In The City location page at petsinthecity.co.nz/locations. Preparing for your first day: Bring vaccination records, flea/tick treatment proof, medications in a labelled container, secure collar or harness, and notes on your dog's routine and triggers. What to expect in the first week: Start with a 1-2 hour trial, then build to half days. Good centres set quiet periods to avoid over-stimulation. Expect daily updates on your dog's play style and social matches. Pro Tip: Keep goodbyes upbeat and brief. A calm exit helps your dog settle faster. Beyond daycare: Dog boarding, training, grooming, and wellness all work together. Book a daycare day the week before boarding so familiar staff and setting ease overnight stays. FAQ How much does dog daycare cost in Auckland? Pricing varies by centre. For current daycare rates and package options, visit your nearest Pets In The City location page at petsinthecity.co.nz/locations. Is daycare right for my puppy? When it uses structure and force-free methods, yes. Look for puppy-only groups, short sessions and calm nap windows. Do dogs nap at daycare? Quality centres set nap times. Quiet periods prevent over-arousal and support calmer behaviour at home.