Introductory stages
Every dog is unique, which is why we take the time to get to know them before they become part of the Hounds family. Our settling in sessions are designed to introduce your dog to our environment at their own pace, helping them build confidence, form friendships and feel comfortable with our team. We carefully assess each dog's personality, play style and wellbeing to ensure daycare is the right fit, giving both you and your dog the very best start.
Stage 01 - Behavioural Sessions
This stage is for nervous / anxious / potentially reactive doggies. If your dog doesn't respond particularly well to other dogs, humans, or other specific stimulus, this is the first step in getting them ready for daycare. We want all doggies to reap the emotional and physical benefits of daycare, so we take the time to listen, understand and help them to become more confident. They will need to move through each stage before they can graduate to daycare. Prices for this stage will depend on the requirements of each dog.
1 - 3 : First to third sessions
- One hour with a trainer with the introduction of a small number of dogs (if comfortable)
4 - 6 : Fourth to sixth sessions
- Two hours with introduction of bigger group of dogs
7 - 10: Seventh to tenth sessions
- Half day within the centre
At this stage we will assess the response and if they are ready move them into Stage 2.
Please note that these stages are indicative, and an average of what we see dogs responding to. Every stage 01 programme is tailored to suit the needs of the dog.
1 - 2 : First to second sessions
- One hour with a trainer and one other dog to assess behaviour
3 - 4 : Third to fourth sessions
- Three hours with introduction of an additional stimulus (people and/or dogs)
5 - 6 : Fifth to sixth sessions
- Four hours in a group of maximum 4 dogs
At this stage we will assess the response and if they are ready move them into Stage 3.
Please note that these stages are indicative, and an average of what we see dogs responding to. We will not push your dog too far and progress each stage only if they are ready.
If you aren't too sure how your dog might respond, or if they do tend to have some nervousness around dogs or humans, this would be the stage for you. We can take the time to see how your doggies responds, and give them a helping hand when they need it.
Stage 03
If your dog is confident with other dogs and people, or has been to other daycare centres with no issues, they can jump straight into Stage 03.
01 : First session
- Half an hour tour with owners present
02 : Second session
- two hours settling in session
in the full centre
Graduation!
Your dog can join all day care centre sessions
Please note that if we see signs of anxiety and/or stress, we may suggest that they go back to stage 2. It is very important that we read the behavioural responses of the dogs and if we aren't convinced that they are confident and happy, we will take a step back.
