What Should I Consider When Looking for Dog Day Care

Licensing and star rating
In England, dog boarding and day care facilities must be licensed by their local council. Ask to see the licence number and confirm the star rating awarded following inspection. The rating reflects standards around welfare, safety, staffing, and management. A higher rating indicates strong compliance and good practice.

Reviews and reputation
Online reviews can offer valuable insight into other owners’ experiences. Look beyond star counts and read what people say about communication, consistency, and how their dogs behaved after attending. Calm, settled dogs returning home are often the best indicator of good care.

Visit the premises in person
Always visit the facility before booking. Seeing the environment for yourself helps you understand where your dog will be kept during the day and how they are managed. Look for calm dogs, secure areas, clean spaces, and staff who appear confident and attentive rather than rushed.