Sun’s Out. Tongues Out: Why Dog Boarding & Daycare Are Lifesavers for Busy Summer Schedules
- Tom Tenkman
- Jun 23
- 5 min read
Summer is officially in full swing… bringing with it the kind of jam-packed calendar that leaves you wondering where the day (month!) went.
But while you're packing bags, carpooling to camps, or heading to the airport for a much-needed vacation getaway, your best friend’s summer may see their days going back and forth from chaotic and busy… to lonely.
Whether you’re heading out of town for a week of family fun or just juggling the summer schedule shuffle at home, consider dog boarding and daycare options to keep your pup’s tails wagging…especially when keeping track of everything has you and your family constantly on your toes.
The Summer Schedule Shuffle: Dogs Feel It Too
We all know that dogs thrive on routine. But summer doesn’t exactly play by the rules. One week it’s a road trip. The next it’s out-the-door chaos with sports practices, parties, and a houseful of guests. Your pup is watching the bags get packed, or a stream of visitors coming and going, and wondering what happened to the structure and calm they are used to.
This abrupt change can cause dogs to become anxious, bored, or even destructive. And if you’re too busy to give them the attention they’re used to, they may act out in ways that manifest their loneliness and anxiety.
When the summer schedule shuffle kicks in, and the days get longer, it might seem easier to just leave your dog at home. But that can come with real downsides:
Loneliness: Dogs are social animals. Long hours alone can lead to anxiety and boredom.
Lack of exercise: Summer heat can limit safe outdoor time, especially if you’re not home to supervise.
Destructive behavior: Dogs left alone too often may chew, scratch, or bark excessively out of stress.
Boarding and daycare helps restore that routine, structure, and healthy stimulation so your dog isn’t just left behind, but actually has something to look forward to.
When Daycare Is the Real MVP
Doggy daycare can be a summer game-changer. If your days are packed with errands, guests, or working from home, your pup can still get the attention and structure they crave yet may be lacking.
And unfortunately, utilizing daycare to keep your dog happy and active is an often-overlooked solution, or dismissed as being too expensive.
However, doggy daycare can be a wonderful, and affordable, way to keep the summer schedule shuffle from affecting your pup. Consider daycare, even if only a day or two a week, if any of these sounds familiar:
Working pet parents who want to avoid the guilt that comes with knowing your best friend is home all day long.
Families hosting guests with dog allergies or small children.
Dogs who need to burn off energy before your late afternoon Zoom call.
Pups who get overwhelmed by the chaos of busy summer schedules.
In daycare, pups stay cool indoors, get plenty of one-on-one attention, and come home mentally and physically satisfied (aka, tired and happy). And most dog-owners are surprised when they find out that a daycare experience doesn’t have to break the bank.
Dog Boarding While You’re Beaching
Planning a getaway? Don’t let the guilt of leaving your pup cast a shadow over your vacation. Boarding services offer your dog their own kind of vacation…their very own “staycation”...complete with one-on-one playtime, fresh air, their own food, and lots of love. You can even arrange a “spa day” groom before you pick them up!
When researching the ideal facility to board your dog, consider the following features for the best, and safest possible experience:
Climate Controlled Kennels: There are many boarding facilities who have indoor/outdoor runs for your dog, but in the summertime when the sun is beating down, consider a climate controlled provider so your pup stays cool and doesn’t get overheated.
No add-on fees: Offering one flat rate that includes all the love, attention, and playtime your dog needs, means no surprises after your trip.
One-on-one play instead of group play: For safety, find a facility where dogs enjoy one-on-one play with their trained staff, not crowded pack time, to prevent altercations and ensure a safer environment for all.
Positive, praise-based environment: Look for a facility that stresses a positive environment with caring staff, so every interaction builds trust and happiness, not stress and anxiety.
Like-home care: Make sure your dog’s eating routine is uninterrupted, so a facility that allows you to provide your dog's favorite food and treats will make your best friend feel even more at home.
How to Prep Your Dog for a Summer Stay
If you are thinking that an occasional daycare stay for your pup is just what the doctor ordered, or if you’ve never boarded your dog while traveling, there are few things you should know to ensure your dog’s experience is a great one.
And to make sure you aren’t stuck scrambling at the last minute before hitting the road. You’ve got flights to catch!
Whether it’s boarding or daycare, here are a few pro tips to help ensure a smooth transition:
Get vaccines in early: Some vaccinations require time to become effective, so don’t wait until the last minute. Check with your facility for vaccination requirements and check them off right away.
Pack familiar food: Daycare/Boarding is not the time for diet changes. Bring enough of their current food (and a little extra just in case).
Make sure collars fit properly: A snug, secure collar keeps your dog safe while they’re in our care.
Try a trial run: If it’s your pup’s first visit, consider a half-day of daycare or one overnight before your big trip.
Your Dog Deserves a Summer, Too
Your dog doesn’t want to spend their summer staring out the window while you live your best life. They want to play, explore, and feel like part of the action.
So go ahead and plan the trip.
Say yes to that extra event.
And then book that daycare or boarding so your dog can live their best summer life just like you!
About The Author:
Tom is the owner and head trainer at Smart Paws and attended the National K-9 Learning Center of Columbus for Master Trainer education. He has trained dogs for over 10 years in homes and at other dog training locations, before starting Smart Paws.
About Smart Paws Training and Boarding
One of the very few Cincinnati-based facilities offering only positive, praise-based dog training, Smart Paws also provides boarding/daycare in a safe, comfortable, and loving environment, and grooming that will have your best friend looking and feeling their best.
Ready to book your dog’s stay? Don’t wait…secure their spot today before space runs out!
For more information on all of our services, click here.
