Finding the right doggy daycare for your pet means understanding exactly what you're signing up for before you commit. Most facilities use detailed contracts that cover liability, cancellation policies, fees, and health requirements—but many pet owners aren't sure what's actually fair or standard. This guide walks you through the key contract terms you should expect to see and what red flags to watch for.
Liability and Injury Waivers
Nearly every daycare will ask you to sign a liability waiver that limits their responsibility if your dog gets injured during care. This is standard, but the language matters. Look for clauses that specify what happens if your dog is injured due to negligence versus normal play roughness.
A reasonable waiver typically covers minor scrapes, torn nails, or minor stress during socialization—things that can happen in any group setting. However, reputable facilities should still maintain general liability insurance. Don't sign a contract that claims zero responsibility for injuries caused by staff negligence or failure to follow safety protocols you've established (like "no rough play" for senior dogs).
Ask the facility directly: What insurance do you carry, and can I see proof? Their willingness to answer signals professionalism.
Daily Rates and Payment Terms
Daycare pricing varies significantly by location and facility quality, but expect to pay:
- Urban areas: $25–$50 per day
- Suburban areas: $15–$35 per day
- Rural areas: $10–$25 per day
Most contracts specify whether you pay per visit or commit to monthly packages (often with a small discount). Check if there are drop-in rates versus regular customer discounts. Some facilities require minimum commitments (e.g., 2 days per week) to get their best pricing.
Look at the payment section carefully: What happens if you forget to pay by the due date? Is there a late fee (typically $10–$20 per occurrence)? Is payment non-refundable or can you carry credits forward?
Cancellation and No-Show Policies
This is where many pet owners get surprised. A typical cancellation policy requires 24–48 hours' notice to avoid being charged for that day. Some daycares charge a flat no-show fee (usually $15–$25) if you book a spot and don't use it without notice.
A fair contract should specify:
- How much advance notice you need to give
- Whether you can cancel via phone, email, or app
- What happens during holidays (many facilities charge full daily rates or require a minimum booking)
- Whether you can reschedule unused days instead of losing the fee
Ask for clarification on their holiday schedule upfront—some facilities close for 2–3 weeks annually, and you should know if you're still paying.
Health Requirements and Vaccination Records
The contract must outline vaccination minimums. Standard requirements include:
- Current rabies vaccination
- Up-to-date DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza)
- Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine—some facilities require this; others recommend it
Reputable daycares also ask about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention status. The contract should specify how recent records must be (often within 12 months for core vaccines, within 6 months for Bordetella).
If your dog has behavioral issues or medical conditions, the contract should have space to document these. For example, if your dog has food allergies, the contract should note that the facility will only feed provided meals or approved treats.
Behavioral Standards and Removal Policy
Daycares reserve the right to remove dogs that are overly aggressive or disruptive. The contract should outline the process: Does the facility give warnings? Do they require a behavioral assessment? Is there a refund if they remove your dog?
A good contract specifies that dogs showing signs of resource guarding, serious aggression, or repeated snapping will be asked to leave. This protects all dogs in care.
Drop-Off and Pick-Up Windows
Most contracts lock you into specific hours. Common windows are 7–9 AM for drop-off and 5–6 PM for pick-up, with late fees of $1–2 per minute if you exceed pickup time. Read this carefully—missing the window can cost $15–$30 quickly.
Final Check: Finding a Trustworthy Provider
Use Mercoly to compare and find trusted doggy daycare providers in your area, read verified customer reviews, and check contracts side-by-side before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I negotiate contract terms with a doggy daycare? Yes—especially on pricing or cancellation policy. Established daycares are less flexible than newer facilities, so ask what room they have for customization.
Q: What should I do if my dog gets injured at daycare? Request an incident report in writing immediately, document photos, and follow your vet's advice. Review whether the injury was covered under their liability waiver before pursuing further action.
Q: How long do daycare contracts typically last? Most are month-to-month with 30 days' notice to cancel, though some require quarterly or annual commitments at discounted rates.
Ready to find a daycare that fits your needs? Compare verified providers and read real customer contracts today.