Your hound's first daycare day is coming up — exciting!
Whether they're a seasoned social butterfly or a first-time daycare guest, we want their introduction to Hound Hero to be a positive experience.
Our home-based daycare in Melbourne's west combines outdoor adventures, canine companionship and plenty of opportunities to relax.
Here's what you and your dog can expect.
Before their first day
Every new daycare dog starts with a free Meet & Greet.
This helps us understand their personality, social confidence, exercise needs and routines before welcoming them into the pack.
We'll also ask you to complete their Time To Pet profile so we have the important details about their health, behaviour and care requirements.
If your dog has any particular needs, please let us know before their first visit.
Arriving at Hound Hero
Our standard daycare day runs for approximately eight hours, with flexible arrangements available to suit your schedule.
You can bring your dog to us or arrange our optional pick up and drop off service.
We'll confirm your arrangements when your booking is approved.
When your dog arrives, we'll give them an opportunity to settle in and become comfortable with their surroundings.
We know that every hound is different. Some are ready to join the action straight away, while others prefer a slower introduction.
There's no pressure to be the life of the party.
Morning: Let the adventures begin!
Once everyone's settled, it's time for some fun.
Our daycare includes two group outings to local off-leash parks, where dogs can enjoy exercise, sniffing, exploring and social play.
We choose secure, fenced parks and keep our groups small, with no more than five dogs per group.
That means more individual attention and the opportunity for us to keep a close eye on how everyone is getting along.
Some dogs love a game of fetch, while others prefer a leisurely sniffari.
Both are perfectly respectable ways to spend an adventure.
Midday: Time to recharge
Even the most enthusiastic hound needs a break!
Back at Hound Hero, dogs have time to relax, enjoy some quieter activities and settle down for a well-earned rest.
Our home-based environment offers comfortable spaces for dogs to decompress between adventures.
Rest is an important part of the daycare experience. We want your hound to enjoy their day, not become overtired or overstimulated.
If your dog's visit overlaps with their usual mealtime, we're happy to feed them their own food.
Just bring their meal along, clearly portioned and labelled.
Afternoon: More adventures and downtime
After some rest, there's more time for enrichment, outdoor exploration and another group outing.
We adjust the pace of activities according to the dogs in our care, their energy levels and the weather.
Not every dog needs to be running all day.
Our goal is a happy balance of stimulation, social interaction and recovery.
Going home: A happy hound
At the end of the day, we'll have your dog ready for their agreed going-home arrangements.
If you've booked our drop off service, we'll bring them home at the confirmed time.
It's completely normal for some dogs to be extra sleepy after their first daycare day. New experiences, smells and social interactions can be mentally tiring as well as physically active.
Let them enjoy a peaceful evening and settle back into their usual routine.
What should I pack for daycare?
You don't need to send your dog with their entire wardrobe!
We recommend:
A secure, well-fitted harness and lead
Their usual food if they'll need a meal during daycare
Any required medication, with clear instructions
Anything specific we've discussed to help them feel comfortable
We provide comfortable places to rest, water and plenty of canine entertainment.
Will I get updates?
Yes!
We use Time To Pet to keep in touch with clients, including sharing photos and updates from your dog's adventures.
You can access these through the Time To Pet app or Client Portal.
What if my dog doesn't settle?
We'll always prioritise your dog's wellbeing.
If they're finding the environment overwhelming or struggling to settle, we'll adjust their experience where possible and discuss any concerns with you.
Daycare should be enjoyable, not something your dog simply has to endure.
For some dogs, a gradual introduction or regular group walks may be a better starting point.
Why regular daycare makes a difference
Dogs often benefit from familiar people, routines and canine companions.
With regular daycare visits, your hound has opportunities to build confidence, develop friendships and become comfortable with the rhythm of their Hound Hero days.
And for you? It's the reassurance of knowing they're enjoying exercise, companionship and care while you get on with your day.
Ready for their first daycare adventure?
Whether your dog needs one day a week or a more regular schedule, we'd love to help you find a routine that works.
New to Hound Hero? Register to arrange your free Meet & Greet.
Already part of the pack? Log in to Time To Pet to request your next daycare day.