The Playground

Structure of Doggie Daycare

At the Lafayette Veterinary Care Center's Playground, we pride ourselves on our structured daycare where we have an established system of playmates that have been categorized into 4 main groups. Our dogs are separated by size, temperament, energy level, and play style to encourage dogs with similar needs to play with each other in order to maximize their stimulation.

Incorporating Training

We play with manners in mind! Our specially trained daycare team uses behaviors like sitting, leash walking, calling by name, and waiting at the gate to keep up those manners and bring everyone’s focus to the group leader. We use positive methods to redirect and refocus even the most rambunctious of pups. Utilizing professional training methods in our daily daycare routine helps to keep your dog on the right track while here as well as at home.

Getting The Most Out Of Doggie Daycare

Doggie daycare is a great way for your dog to expend that extra energy that they have been holding in all week. Every dog has his or her own natural amount of energy to release. Athletic dog breeds that have a high level of energy might need daycare 3-4 times per week while a dog who tends to be more of a couch potato might find the most benefit from playing 2-3 times per week.

Doggie Daycare Requirements

• All dogs in daycare must maintain annual vaccines for Rabies, Distemper Combo Vaccines, Bordetella (twice yearly), and Canine Influenza. Additionally, they must stay current on heartworm and flea parasite preventions, be spayed/ neutered, and have a microchip. 

• Puppies can start playing with us as early as 12 weeks old as long as they are fully vaccinated. Puppies must be spayed/neutered and microchipped by 6 months of age (with exception of dogs who have an excuse from a veterinarian up until 9 months of age).

• Pet must be in good health and physical condition and free from communicable diseases. Elderly dogs are welcome. 

• Dogs who show any signs of aggression or mounting will be separated from the play group for the day. We operate on a three-strike basis before permanently dismissing a dog from group play.

• Due to risk of injury, we treat anxious dogs similarly to aggressive dogs.

All dogs who are struggling with aggressive or anxious behavior in play are encouraged to work with our certified dog trainer to create a treatment plan that suits your dog’s needs in order to promote positive social behaviors and discourage behaviors that might lead to a permanent dismissal from daycare.