Evaluating Dogs for Group Play (Evaluations)

Operating Procedure

If a pet parent wants their dog to play with other dogs, we will start by conducting an evaluation to be sure he or she will enjoy the group play experience. Only staff trained for Group Play should conduct evaluations. 

• Take the dog out to the play yard and spend a few minutes getting to know the dog, letting the dog explore the play yard and get comfortable with his surroundings and you.
• If and when the dog seems comfortable and relaxed, introduce another dog with calm temperament and of similar size. Let them first meet through the gate then on a leash. If all goes well you can let them off the leash to interact.
• Supervise closely, watching for any signs of aggression or fear.
• If all goes well, bring out another dog that might be a little more playful than the first and see how they interact. If everyone is getting along and showing no signs of fear or aggression, you can slowly introduce the dog to the rest of the group.
• Notes must be made in the new dog’s client file regarding who did the evaluation, what dogs it was done with and how they did during the evaluation and during group play. Additional notes can be made as the dog progresses and feels more comfortable. Add a 'B', 'M', 'S', or 'I' icon to their Gingr file for future reference of what playtime they belong to.
• As part of a pet's first day, a midday call to the owner must be made and the rest of the first day checklist must be completed. Click here to view the first day checklist.