How to Prep Your Pet for Day Care: Essential Training Products

Enrolling your furry friend in day care is a big step, and ensuring they are prepared can make the experience enjoyable for both of you. Whether your pet is a social butterfly or needs a little extra confidence, training them with the right tools and techniques can set them up for success.

At I Was Today Years Old, we believe in positivity, preparation, and the power of great products to make pet parenting easier. Here’s how to get your pet day-care-ready with essential training tools.

1. Teach Basic Commands

For Dogs

Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are crucial for a safe and positive day care experience.

• Recommended Product: PetSafe Treat & Train Remote Reward Trainer

  • Why: Reinforce commands with positive reinforcement.

For Cats

Help your cat feel comfortable in a new environment by training them to come when called.

• Recommended Product: HoAoOo Cat Training Clicker

  • Why: Makes training quick and effective.

2. Focus on Socialization

Exposing your pet to different people, pets, and environments helps them feel more confident.

• For Dogs: Schedule playdates or take them to pet-friendly parks.

• For Cats: Use enrichment toys and scratching posts to simulate a stimulating environment.

• Recommended Product: KONG Classic Dog Toy or SmartyKat Catnip Toys

3. Help Them Handle Alone Time

Day care requires pets to be independent for parts of the day. Prepare them with crate training and comfort items.

• Recommended Product:

  • MidWest Homes for Pets Crate: A secure space for dogs.

  • Feliway Classic Calming Diffuser: Reduces anxiety for cats.

4. Introduce Leash Manners

If the day care includes walks or outdoor play, good leash behavior is a must.

• Recommended Product:

  • PetSafe Easy Walk Harness for dogs

  • Rabbitgoo Cat Harness and Leash Set for cats

5. Pack the Essentials

Ensure your pet is comfortable by packing these items:

• Comfort Blanket or Toy: Something familiar to ease anxiety.

• Portable Water Bottle: Keep them hydrated during the day.

  • Recommended Product: MalsiPree Portable Pet Water Bottle

6. Address Separation Anxiety

For pets who struggle with separation, start by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increasing the time.

• Recommended Product:

  • Adaptil Calm On-the-Go Collar for dogs

  • Feliway Travel Spray for cats

7. Books to Guide You

• The Art of Raising a Puppy by The Monks of New Skete: Perfect for dog parents preparing their pets for new environments.

• Catification: Insightful tips for understanding and training your feline friend.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your pet for day care takes time, patience, and the right tools. By teaching basic commands, encouraging socialization, and using the best training products, you can set your pet up for a positive and enriching experience.

At I Was Today Years Old, we’re here to support you every step of the way with recommendations and tips to make pet parenting a breeze.

What’s your go-to training product? Share your tips in the comments! 🐾