How to Choose the Best Dog Daycare in Vermont: A Local Expert Guide

By Tails On Trails Pet Resort · Wilmington, Vermont

Choosing a dog daycare isn’t just about finding a place to drop your pup off for the day — it’s about finding a safe, structured, loving environment where your dog can thrive. Here in Vermont, where pets are cherished family members and outdoor adventure is part of everyday life, the right daycare can make a world of difference in your dog’s socialization, behavior, confidence, and happiness.

Whether you’re new to the area, preparing for ski season, or simply looking to elevate your dog’s care, this guide will help you understand what truly matters when selecting the best dog daycare in Vermont.

1. Look for a Safe, Structured Open-Play Environment

A high-quality dog daycare should focus on safety, supervision, and positive social experiences. That starts with a structured, open-play model:

✔️ Supervised group play throughout the day

✔️ Staff trained in dog behavior, body language, and safe handling

✔️ Groupings based on size, temperament, and energy levels

✔️ Clear play protocols and safety rules

At Tails On Trails, dogs enjoy intentionally supervised play sessions designed to build confidence and promote healthy socialization — not chaotic or overcrowded environments.

A safe daycare is one where dogs can have fun, but in a controlled, staff-guided manner that keeps every pup protected.

2. Evaluate Cleanliness & Facility Standards

A clean facility is non-negotiable. When you walk into a daycare, it should smell clean, look tidy, and feel organized.

Pay attention to:

✔️ Air circulation and ventilation

✔️ Clean kennels and resting areas

✔️ Sanitized play surfaces

✔️ Fresh water access in every playroom

✔️ A calm, well-maintained atmosphere

A well-kept space shows professionalism — and keeps your dog protected from germs, stress, and injuries.

3. Confirm Vaccination & Health Requirements

A reputable daycare prioritizes the health of every dog in its care. Standard requirements include:

• Rabies

• Distemper/Parvo (DHPP)

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough)

• Flea/tick prevention

These requirements help create a controlled, healthy environment for all dogs — especially in high-traffic seasonal areas like Vermont’s ski towns.

4. Ask About Staff Training and Experience

Not all dog daycares are staffed the same. High-quality care comes from highly trained professionals who understand:

✔️ Canine body language

✔️ Group play management

✔️ Breed-specific behaviors

✔️ Emergency response

✔️ Fear-free handling

A great staff can recognize subtle signs of stress, intervene early when needed, and ensure that every dog feels safe, confident, and supported.

5. Look for Personalized Attention & Small Group Ratios

Dogs thrive when they’re not lost in a large crowd. Ask about:

• Staff-to-dog ratios

• How playgroups are assigned

• Whether temperament is evaluated

• How rest breaks are managed

Personalized attention helps reduce overstimulation and ensures a meaningful experience for each dog — especially puppies and nervous dogs.

6. Consider the Location & Convenience

In Vermont, location matters — especially for families heading to:

• Mount Snow

• Stratton Mountain

• Bromley Mountain

• Magic Mountain

• Wilmington & Dover

• Manchester & Winhall

If you’re commuting, skiing, or traveling, choose a daycare that offers easy access, flexible drop-off hours, and reliable communication.

The best daycares (like ours at Tails On Trails Pet Resort) consider the rhythm of local life — especially during peak tourism months.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Your dog is family. And like any important decision, your intuition plays a role.

Ask yourself:

• Do I feel welcomed?

• Does my dog seem comfortable and happy?

• Is the facility transparent about policies and pricing?

• Do they genuinely care about the dogs who stay there?

If the answer is yes — you’ve found trustworthy care.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right dog daycare is an investment in your dog’s happiness, health, and emotional well-being. In Vermont — where dogs join us on mountains, trails, lakes, and snowy adventures — finding the perfect daycare creates a foundation for a joyful, balanced life.

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort, we’ve built a luxury, safety-driven experience designed around the needs of modern dog families. Whether your dog is here for a single day of play or becomes a part of our daily community, we’re committed to offering the highest standard of care in Southern Vermont.