Dog Sitters vs Dog Day Care
By nipperharris
For dog lovers, knowing how to manage their care - while you're out of the house - can be a conundrum. It can also be worrying. How can you be sure that your pooch is getting the best care, being socialised appropriately, safe, and at ease? Responsible dog owners will typically find themselves considering one of two options: doggy day care or a dog sitter. Pet sitting London often offer dog sitting services. There are also a number of dog day care options opening up. So how do you know which is best?
Dog Sitter London vs Doggy Day Care London
In London, you're fortunate in having some real genuine choice when it comes to the daily care of your pup. Generally, this care falls into two camps: the sitter (or walker) or daycare. The dog sitter pops into your home once or twice a day, pops on the lead, and takes your hound out for a stroll. If you're lucky they will then check food and water, remember to lock up safely, and get on with their day. Doggy day care London will involve your much-loved pet being collected from your door or dropped off. Much like childcare, your dog is then supervised in a dKnoog-friendly, home-from-home environment for the entire time you're out of the home. This includes not only walks on tap, but feeding, watering and plenty of interaction. So which is better? Generally speaking, doggy day care offers a service far superior to dog-sitting, making it preferable for most dogs. However, there are a few instances where dog walking alone, from a trusted and reputable service provider, may be best for your particular animal. Let's take a look at the pros and cons so that you can decide.
The Pros and Cons of Doggy Day Care vs Dog Walking
The I Word: Interaction
Dogs, as you know, are pack animals. They aren't designed to be left alone for long periods. In practice, this means that many hounds left alone while their owners work have a near double life. Your amiable, good-natured pooch while you're around can transform into an excessive barker, troublesome menace the minute your car pulls off the driveway. Ripped cushions are the least of your concern. Being isolated without interaction for long periods can be a source of stress for your dog. Your dog is used to you being the leader of their pack. If you're not available then they should be getting plenty of interaction from other humans.
Socialisation and Training
As well as interaction with humans, dogs as part of being pack animals need socialising with other dogs. You'll see this happen each and every time you encounter another dog on a walk. You'll notice the dogs your dog likes, and also the ones they don't. Some of this socialisation skill is down to training and experience. Your dog needs to be exposed to other dogs to develop this skill and benefit from it. At responsible doggy day care, such as The WAG Club, the dogs are supervised and managed according to their socialisation development. Therefore, groups for walks are chosen carefully and kept appropriately small. What's more, as your hound makes buddies they will actively look forward to a chance to come and play with their pals.
Keeping on Top of Exercise
Rain or shine, your dog needs exercise. Depending on their breed and age they could need upwards of two hours a day: Hence walkies. However, while good walks are imperative, and therefore the focus of a dog sitter in London, they aren't the only exercise needed. You'll notice that a sociable dog is a mobile one. They shouldn't be confined and immobile for hours on end due to lack of interaction, only for reasons such as old age. It should be a perfect balance of rest and exercise opportunity. Doggy day care is better positioned to offer this daily exercise in addition to regular walking. There should be ball chasing, rag pulling, and more.
Behaviour Management
We know your dog is the best thing since sliced bread. We're dog lovers ourselves. However, we also know that good dog behaviour doesn't just happen by accident. It requires concerted regular effort. Training a dog isn't a one person show. It should be happening constantly. For younger dogs, their behaviour can be improved by being with a dog expert and surrounded by other dogs who know their stuff. Having a dog sitter, walker or day care that focuses on behaviour management is critical to your dog's wellbeing. The continual reinforcement needed, especially in younger dogs, can be offered more easily in a doggy day care setting.
Last But Not Least: You
That's right. It's not all about your beloved tail-wagger. We know because we're the same, that your canine friend isn't 'just a dog'. They are part of the family. You love them and care about their wellbeing. You also care about your home (and your cushions!), and its security. Therefore, one of the primary considerations when comparing a dog sitter to doggy day care comes down to delivering peace of mind to you, the owner. Knowing your pooch is getting constant supervision without any risk to your home is a real advantage of doggy day care.
So which is best for your dog?
In the vast majority of circumstances, doggy day care, from a superior provider such as The WAG Club, should be your first port of call. You can't beat knowing that your dog is cared for from the moment you leave them until the moment they are collected, or dropped home. Do check out the doggy day care thoroughly. Ask questions and find out for yourself if you're satisfied they meet all the requirements above. In some situations, such as for elderly dogs or those with anxiety or socialisation problems, a dog sitter may be your best option. Nonetheless, you still shouldn't select just anyone. Choose a reputable dog walking service, such as The WAG Club (yes, we offer dog walking service too!) where they also take time to check water bowls and double-check locking your back door. Whatever your needs, if you're looking for a 'dogcare', may that be doggy day care or a dog sitter, get in touch so that you can experience The WAG Club difference.