The Best Pet Daycares in Novato, CA
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in Novato 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.
Wag Hotel Marin
Contact Information
1 Digital Dr, Novato, CA 94949
(415) 892-1200
Services
About
A premier, upscale facility offering climate-controlled indoor playrooms, luxury suites with webcams for owners, and a supervised social daycare environment. Their comprehensive approach includes personalized care plans and a full-service spa, making it a top-tier choice for pets who enjoy luxury. Located directly in Novato.
The Pet Camp - San Francisco Campus
Contact Information
525 Phelps St, San Francisco, CA 94124
(415) 282-0700
Services
About
Known for its massive indoor and outdoor play spaces, including a 20,000-square-foot outdoor adventure area with splash pools and synthetic grass. They focus on cage-free boarding and enrichment-based activities. Located in San Francisco, approximately 30 miles from Novato, it's a destination for camp-style fun.
Pampered Pooch Playground
Contact Information
85 Belvedere St, San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 453-7267
Services
About
A highly-rated facility featuring both indoor and outdoor play areas, separate spaces for different dog sizes and temperaments, and a focus on safety and socialization. They offer cage-free boarding and a unique self-serve dog wash station. Located in San Rafael, just 10 miles south of Novato.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical vaccination requirements for dog daycare in Novato?
Most Novato pet daycares require proof of up-to-date vaccinations from a licensed veterinarian. This typically includes Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Many facilities also now require a negative fecal test and recommend, or require, the Canine Influenza (CIV) vaccine due to its presence in the Bay Area. Always check with your chosen daycare for their specific list of requirements.
How much does dog daycare typically cost in Novato, and are there package deals?
In Novato, you can expect to pay between $35 and $50 for a full day of daycare. Half-day rates are often available for around $25 to $35. Many local facilities offer cost-saving packages, such as 10 or 20-day passes, which can reduce the per-day cost. Some also provide monthly membership options for regular clients, which often include additional perks like discounted grooming or boarding.
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 should also provide your dog's food if they will be there during a mealtime, pre-portioned in a sealed container. While toys from home are often discouraged to prevent resource guarding, it's a good idea to bring any required medication with clear instructions. Most importantly, bring your dog's vaccination records and any completed enrollment forms required by the Novato daycare facility.
How do Novato daycares handle dogs with different energy levels and play styles?
Reputable daycares in Novato conduct a temperament evaluation before a dog's first full day. They then group dogs by size, energy level, and play style (e.g., gentle, rough-and-tumble, shy) to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment. Many facilities also have structured rest periods throughout the day to prevent overstimulation, especially important for high-energy breeds. Look for a daycare that offers separate areas for small and large dogs as a standard practice.
Are there any local Novato considerations, like heat or air quality, that affect daycare operations?
Yes, Novato's warm, dry summers are a key consideration. Top daycares have strict heat policies, limiting outdoor play during peak temperatures and ensuring constant access to shade and fresh water. Furthermore, with wildfire season being a reality in Marin County, many facilities are equipped with air filtration systems to handle poor air quality days. It's wise to ask about their specific policies for extreme weather and air quality, as some may adjust outdoor time or have emergency protocols in place.
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 Novato.