Your dog’s first day of daycare can feel a little like the first day of school—exciting, nerve-wracking, and full of new experiences. At Fun Fur Pets, we’ve helped countless pups take that first step, and we know that a little preparation goes a long way.

Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help make the experience smooth and stress-free for both you and your furry best friend:

1. Plan for an Early Morning Drop-Off
   Starting early gives your dog a chance to meet other early arrivals and settle in before the energy ramps up. It’s a gentler transition that helps them ease into the day’s adventures.
2. Stay Cool and Confident
   Your dog can sense how you’re feeling. If you’re calm and upbeat, they’ll pick up on those cues. A positive attitude from you goes a long way toward helping them feel safe and excited.
3. Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet
   As tempting as it is to linger, a cheerful, quick farewell helps your dog transition into daycare mode without extra stress. It tells them, “You’ve got this!”
4. Skip the Spa Day—For Now
   A fresh bath or nail trim might seem like a good idea, but your dog’s natural scent actually helps them feel grounded and social with new friends. Save the grooming for another day.
5. Use a Standard Leash
   Safety first! A standard leash gives our team more control during check-in and avoids the tangles and trip-ups that retractables can cause.
6. Check Out Their Report Card
   When you pick up your pup, you’ll receive a personalized report card with highlights from their day—new friends made, favorite activities, and fun staff notes. It’s the perfect keepsake to celebrate their progress!

Every dog’s first day is a big milestone, and at Fun Fur Pets, we’re honored to be part of it. We’re here to make the transition from nervous newbie to confident daycare pro as joyful as possible—one tail wag at a time.