If you're looking for dog day care in Epping, the hardest part is often not choosing a place but picturing what the day will actually be like for your dog. Will they be nervous? Will they be shut in a kennel? Will they be looked after like one of the family? Here's what to expect when your dog joins us at JJ's VIP Pets, plus a few tips to make the first visit a happy one.
What dog day care in Epping should feel like
Good dog day care shouldn't feel like a kennel. Dogs are social animals that love company, movement and a comfortable place to rest. At JJ's VIP Pets we're a family-run business, and we've been looking after dogs since 2008. During the day our dogs spend their time in our dog room (it used to be the family's main drawing room) rather than in cages, and they get out to play in our two acre field, which is securely fenced at 5 to 6 ft. The climbing frames are in the top field, so there's plenty to explore.
We take small to medium dogs, and male dogs need to be neutered after the age of one. Ask Jemma if you're not sure whether your dog is a good fit.
Day care hours, drop off and collection
Our day care runs from 7.30am to 9pm every day of the week, which makes it far easier to fit around work, commuting and long days. A full day costs £35. If you can bring your dog to us, pick up is before 10am and drop off is after 4pm.
If that's tricky, we collect from Epping, Theydon Bois, Loughton and Waltham Abbey. Many of our regular dogs are picked up daily along that route. If you're out at work, we can often let ourselves in with a key, collect your dog and return them home safely at the end of the day. You can read more about our local service on our dog care in Epping page.
How to prepare your dog for their first day
A little preparation helps your dog settle quickly:
Arrange a visit first. Visits are by appointment, so you can see the dog room and the field and meet the family before the big day.
Keep the morning calm. A relaxed start is better than a rushed one, and a short walk or toilet break beforehand helps.
Tell us about your dog. Let us know about their routine, favourite games, any worries around other dogs and anything that makes them anxious.
Don't make a fuss at the door. Dogs pick up on our emotions, so a cheerful, quick goodbye helps them feel that this is a happy place.
Why socialising matters
Spending the day with other dogs gives your dog exercise, company and mental stimulation, which can mean a calmer, more contented dog when they come home. Dogs who are used to being around others often grow in confidence, and a tired dog is usually a happy dog on the sofa that evening.
Looking for dog day care or boarding near you?
Many of our families use both day care and boarding. Boarding is available 24/7 at £50 per 24 hours, and in the evening our boarders can join the family in the Snug for cuddles and TV. If you live nearby, take a look at our pages for dog care in Loughton and dog care in Waltham Abbey.
Is JJ's VIP Pets licensed?
Yes. We hold a 5 star licence from Epping Forest District Council (LN/00004591) and we're rated 4.9 on Google from more than 100 reviews. Payment is by cash or bank transfer.
Book a visit with Jemma
The best way to find out if we're right for your dog is to come and see us. Email Jemma at jemma@jjsvippets.com or call 07867 633340 to arrange a visit. We're at 2 Stable Lodge, Waltham Abbey EN9 2EP, and we'd love to meet you both.
