Doggy Daycare Cost: Average Prices & Whats Included

Okay, so I've been thinking about getting a dog for a while now, and with my work schedule, doggy daycare seems like a must. But honestly, I had NO idea how much it would actually cost. So, I started my little investigation.

My Deep Dive into Doggy Daycare Costs

First, I googled "doggy daycare cost near me" – classic, right? I got a bunch of local places listed, which was a good start. I spent a good hour just browsing different websites.

Then, because I like doing things the hard way, I decided to make some calls. I phoned about five different places. I asked about their daily rates, if they had any package deals, and what the deal was with half-day versus full-day options. Some places were super friendly and helpful, others...not so much.

Here's a basic breakdown of what I found:

• Daily Rates: These were all over the place! I saw everything from $25 on the low end to upwards of $50 for a full day.
• Half-Day Rates: Most places offered half-day options, usually around 4-6 hours, and those were generally cheaper, like $15-$30.
• Package Deals: This is where it got interesting. Many places had packages where you could buy, say, 10 or 20 days in advance and get a discount. I saw some that knock a considerable amount off, in my opinion.
• Extra Costs: I did not see any places charging more for certain services like individual playtime or administering medications. One place even offered a "spa day" add-on with a bath and nail trim!

After all my research, I realized the price really depends on what you're looking for. If you need full-day care every day, those packages can be a lifesaver. If your pup just needs a few hours of socialization a couple of times a week, the half-day rate might be the way to go.

I even visited a couple of the places that seemed promising. I wanted to see the facilities firsthand, meet the staff, and get a general vibe. That was super helpful in making my decision.

Honestly, it was more work than I expected to figure all this out! But now I feel way more informed and ready to make the best choice for my future furry friend (and my wallet!).