How to Prepare Your Dog for Their First Day of Daycare at Tails On Trails, Vermont

By Tails On Trails Pet Resort · Wilmington, Vermont

Starting daycare is an exciting milestone for your dog — a chance to make new friends, build confidence, burn healthy energy, and enjoy safe, supervised play. But just like a child’s first day of school, preparation helps create a smooth, positive experience.

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort in Vermont, we want every dog to feel comfortable, supported, and ready to thrive on day one of dog daycare. Whether your pup is full of confidence or a little unsure, here’s how to prepare them for a successful first day of daycare.

1. Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Before attending daycare, your dog must have:

• Rabies

• Distemper/Parvo (DHPP/DAPP)

• Bordetella

• Flea & tick protection applied 48+ hours prior

• Canine Influenza (CIV) strongly recommended

These ensure your dog — and every dog they meet — stays safe and healthy.

2. Share Important Information About Your Dog

Every dog has a unique personality.The more we know, the better we can support them.

Please let us know about:

• feeding routines

• allergies

• behavioral quirks

• comfort items

• fears (like loud noises or new dogs)

• social experience (shy, confident, unsure)

• any past negative daycare or dog park experiences

This helps us create the right playgroup and the right first-day structure.

3. Pack Their Essentials

A successful first day is easier when you bring:

✔️ your dog’s regular food (if they eat lunch)

✔️ a favorite treat

✔️ medication in original packaging (if needed)

✔️ a comfort item (optional)

✔️ a leash and collar/harness they’re used to

Familiar items help your dog feel more at home.

4. Keep Morning Routines Calm

Dogs mirror our emotions.If you’re rushed, anxious, or overly emotional, they feel it.

For a smooth morning:

• wake up early

• give a short walk

• avoid over-feeding

• remain calm and confident

• use a cheerful, encouraging tone

Your energy sets the tone for their whole day.

5. Allow Plenty of Time for Drop-Off

Rushing creates stress.Aim to arrive with extra time so your dog can:

✔️ sniff and explore

✔️ check in calmly

✔️ transition into the play area without pressure

A gentle arrival helps your dog settle in faster — and with more confidence.

6. Expect a Tired Pup After Daycare

Daycare provides:

• mental stimulation

• physical play

• social interaction

• learning opportunities

Most dogs nap deeply afterward — this is completely normal and healthy.

At home, give:

• quiet rest

• plenty of fresh water

• a relaxing evening

• space for a long nap

This “daycare tired” is a sign of a happy, fulfilled dog.

7. Understand That Adjustment Takes Time

Some dogs walk in like they own the place.Others take a day or two to warm up.Both are completely normal.

Dogs may:

• observe quietly at first

• watch others before joining

• take short breaks

• build trust with the team gradually

We never rush them.We take our time to ensure your dog feels safe, supported, and understood.

8. Trust the Process — Your Dog Will Thrive

Every first day is unique.Some dogs make friends instantly.Some need gentle introductions.Some need extra reassurance.

But with professional staffing, structured playgroups, and calm supervision, your dog will:

✔️ build confidence

✔️ learn healthy social skills

✔️ release stress and energy

✔️ enjoy a predictable routine

✔️ develop friendships

✔️ become more balanced and happy

This is exactly what daycare is designed to do.

Why Tails On Trails Is the Best Place for a First Day

We built our resort around:

• safety

• emotional wellness

• low dog-to-staff ratios

• behavior-based playgroups

• calm, intentional introductions

• personalized care

• climate-controlled facilities

• 24/7 on-site supervision

Your dog’s comfort is our priority from the moment they arrive.

Final Thoughts

Your dog’s first day of daycare is the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with learning, joy, social growth, and healthy energy release.

With the right preparation and a supportive environment, your dog will settle in beautifully and look forward to every visit.

At Tails On Trails Pet Resort, we’re honored to guide your dog through their first day — and every day after.

Because dogs don’t just attend daycare here…They thrive.