5 Tips for Starting a Dog Care Co-Op

5 Tips for Starting a Dog Care Co-Op



Do you ever wish your dog could enjoy some time with other dogs, or perhaps just get out of the house to visit with other people? A doggy co-op is very much like a childcare co-op, in the sense that different pet parents take turns with each other’s dogs so the owner can get a break and the dog can have a chance to socialize. If this sounds like something you and your friends would be interested in, check out these 5 tips for starting a doggy co-op.



5 Tips for Starting a Dog Care Co-Op







1. Spread the word.
Send an email or Facebook invite out to any pet parents you think may be interested. Arrange an informational meeting at someone’s house so everyone can meet and discuss details. You want to keep your group to about 3-5 dogs, since you don’t want it to become overwhelming.

2. Figure out a schedule.
Decide how often you will meet. One day a week is probably enough. Decipher a schedule that shows whose home is being used each week. Also set the times. A 1-2 hour period is probably more than enough.

3. Take safety precautions.
Be sure all dogs that are part of the co-op are well adjusted to other people and pets. They should also have all of their shots up to date and be in otherwise good health. All dogs should also come to each play date with a contact number in case of emergency. Have the dogs meet on neutral territory somewhere that they don’t claim as their own a new park, a walk in the woods, a visit to a store with introductions in the parking lot.

4. Plan activities.
Have some activities in mind for the play date. Having a variety of toys available will keep the dogs from fighting over items. Create different experiences for the dogs as well such as music, a water station, etc.

5. Start the co-op.
Start attending the co-ops on the chosen days and at the decided time. This is a great way to get your dog out to play for a bit while you run errands. When it is your turn, return the favor and host the play date at your home or yard. Remember to have some water out for everyone to drink and treats for all to enjoy (check with their owners first to make sure what you are offering is ok to share). You might want to invite everyone to come to the yard and play a little before they go inside so that they run off some steam and meet each other outside with everyone’s owners there and watching their own dog during the introduction phase each visit.