The Best Pet Daycares in Ames, IA
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in Ames is easier than ever. We’ve researched and curated the top 3 pet daycares based on quality of care, services offered, customer reviews, and safety standards. Whether you need daily daycare, boarding, grooming, or training services, these trusted facilities provide exceptional care for your beloved pets.
Top Dog Country Club
Contact Information
3324 Elwood Drive, Ames, IA
(515) 233-3997
Services
About
A premier, cage-free facility offering indoor and outdoor play areas, climate-controlled suites, and a swimming pool. They focus on supervised group play and provide webcams for owners to check in on their pets. Known for their attentive staff and excellent facility maintenance.
Pawsitively Purrfect Pet Resort
Contact Information
110 South 16th Street, Ames, IA
(515) 232-7387
Services
About
A full-service pet resort offering both daycare and boarding with separate playgroups based on size and temperament. Features indoor and outdoor play yards, comfortable boarding suites, and a knowledgeable grooming staff. They also have a boutique retail store on-site.
The Dog Lodge
Contact Information
1305 SE Oralabor Road, Ankeny, IA
(515) 964-3647
Services
About
Located in Ankeny, just 20 miles from Ames. A highly-rated, modern facility featuring large indoor and outdoor play areas, luxury boarding suites, and live webcams. They prioritize safety and enrichment through structured playgroups and individual attention from their trained staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical vaccination requirements for dog daycare in Ames?
Most reputable daycares in Ames, such as those following Iowa State Board of Health guidelines, require proof of current vaccinations for Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Many also strongly recommend the Canine Influenza vaccine due to its presence in communal settings. Always check with your chosen facility for their specific protocol, as some may have additional requirements.
How much does dog daycare typically cost in Ames, Iowa?
In Ames, you can expect to pay between $25 and $35 for a full day of daycare. Many facilities offer package deals, such as a 10-day pass for $220-$280, which lowers the per-day cost. Half-day rates are often available for around $18-$22. Prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, staff-to-dog ratios, and whether you are a first-time customer taking advantage of a trial day offer.
What should I bring for my dog's first day of daycare?
For a successful first day, bring your dog on a secure leash or harness. You must provide proof of vaccinations from your veterinarian. While most daycares provide bowls and toys, you may want to bring your dog's lunch if they are staying through a mealtime, clearly labeled with their name and feeding instructions. It's best to leave personal toys and beds at home to prevent resource guarding or damage.
Do you offer services for pets other than dogs?
While the primary focus of most pet daycares in Ames is dogs, some facilities may offer limited services for cats, such as cat-only boarding suites. However, true 'daycare' with playgroups and social interaction is almost exclusively for dogs. For other pets like rabbits, birds, or reptiles, you would need to seek out a specialized pet sitter or a veterinary clinic in the Ames area that offers exotic pet boarding.
How do you handle severe weather, like winter storms or tornado warnings, in Ames?
The safety of pets is our top priority. All reputable daycares in Ames have severe weather protocols. For winter storms, we monitor forecasts closely and may close early or delay opening to ensure staff and pet parents can travel safely; we always have staff on-site to care for the animals. In the event of a tornado warning, we immediately move all pets to our designated, reinforced severe weather shelter area until the all-clear is given. We recommend signing up for our emergency alert system for real-time updates.
Ready to Find Your Pet’s Perfect Daycare?
Contact any of these top-rated pet daycares directly to schedule a tour and give your furry friend the quality care and socialization they deserve in Ames.