5 things you should know about doggy daycare and walking services

There’s been a spate of stories in the media about dogs being attacked by other dogs while being walked with professional walkers.

We explain the lack of regulation for doggy daycare and dog walking services, and what to check for to make sure your pup is safe.

1. Only Wellington City Council has bylaws for commercial dog walkers and doggy daycare

Wellington City Council is the only one in Aotearoa with requirements specific to commercial dog walkers and daycare services. Both business types must be registered with the council.

Professional dog walkers in Wellington must also hold a commercial dog walking licence. To get one, they need to complete an animal services course, pass an assessment by an animal control officer, and have public liability insurance.

They must reapply every year with two client references. And the council must not have received any reports of them mishandling dogs.

Wellington doggy daycare centres must have a health licence, which requires them to pass a preopening inspection and yearly inspections thereafter.

Given the recent spate of attacks, Auckland City Council is rethinking its bylaws. We would hope other councils do the same.

2. Ask whether the dog walker has an accreditation or other training

There are accreditation programmes which may help you choose an operator; “SPCA Certified” and “CANZ Accredited” (CANZ being Companion Animals New Zealand).

Both programmes were developed to help people choose operators that meet high standards for animal welfare. In February 2023, the first SPCA certified doggy daycare was announced – the Grooming Lounge & Daycare in Whangarei – and more are expected.

CANZ accreditation currently applies to dog trainers and behaviourists. It’ll soon capture puppy pre-schools too.

While uptake of accreditation programmes is low in Aotearoa, you can also ask dog handlers what training and experience they have.

3. Check with your vet first

Check with your vet what type and amount of exercise is suitable for your dog’s age and health situation. Dogs can develop joint or bone problems if they get too much vigorous exercise while they’re growing.

You’ll need to keep your dog’s vaccinations and flea and worming treatments up to date so they’re less likely to bring home unwanted pests or spread infection.

4. How much is a dog walker or day care service?

Paid dog walks can range from short individual walks on the lead (about $20+) to off-leash adventures that last several hours (usually $45–$75).

Doggy daycare centres provide a space for dogs to hang out for the day at a fixed location (at least $32–$65, sometimes including pick-up and drop-off). Some are 100% indoors. Others have indoor and outdoor spaces with different zones depending on your dog’s personality and size.

5. What to ask the dog handler before signing up

While things can go wrong for even the most experienced and trained operator, you can minimise any risks by doing your research.

Here’s what to ask the operator before signing up:

• What is their plan for managing injuries to dogs in their care?
• How many dogs do they supervise at once (how many per handler)?
• What methods do they use to maintain calm control of the dogs?
• How secure, clean and appropriate are their facilities and/or vehicles? Can you inspect them before your dog’s first day?
• How much time does your dog get exercising, playing and learning versus time in a dog run or vehicle?