The Best Pet Daycares in San Rafael, CA
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in San Rafael 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.
The Pet Camp - Marin Campus
Contact Information
2250 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael, CA 94903
(415) 578-2267
Services
About
The Pet Camp is a premier, eco-friendly facility featuring indoor and outdoor play areas with artificial turf, splash pools, and climate-controlled environments. They offer webcam access for owners and focus on cage-free boarding, providing a resort-like experience for pets. Their structured playgroups are supervised by trained professionals.
Wag Hotel San Rafael
Contact Information
1 Mark Dr, San Rafael, CA 94903
(415) 526-0300
Services
About
Wag Hotel offers a luxury, hotel-like environment with spacious playrooms, comfortable suite boarding, and a wide array of amenities. They provide separate areas for different sizes and temperaments of dogs and include features like bedtime treats and turndown service for boarding guests. It's a full-service facility that combines daycare with premium boarding options.
Doggie Dude Ranch
Contact Information
100 Smith Ranch Rd, San Rafael, CA 94903
(415) 479-5835
Services
About
A long-standing, family-owned facility offering a rustic "ranch" experience with large, secure outdoor play yards where dogs can run and socialize freely. They emphasize personalized care and plenty of outdoor exercise. Located in San Rafael, it's a popular choice for owners who want their dogs to enjoy a more natural, open-air environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical vaccination requirements for dog daycare in San Rafael?
Most reputable San Rafael daycares require proof of up-to-date vaccinations from a veterinarian. This typically includes Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Many facilities also now require a negative fecal test to rule out intestinal parasites. Due to local regulations and health standards, these requirements are strictly enforced for the safety of all pets.
How much does dog daycare typically cost in San Rafael?
In San Rafael, you can expect to pay between $40 and $65 for a full day of daycare. Half-day rates are often available for around $25 to $35. Many facilities offer discounted multi-day packages or monthly membership plans which can lower the per-day cost. Pricing can vary based on the facility's amenities, staff-to-dog ratios, and any additional services included.
What should I bring for my dog's first day of daycare?
For a trial day or first visit, you should bring your dog on a secure leash and collar (no retractable leashes). You'll need to provide your vaccination records. It's also a good idea to bring a small meal or treats if your dog has specific dietary needs, though most daycares will provide treats. Do not bring personal toys or bedding, as these can cause resource guarding. Given San Rafael's variable weather, ensure your dog is prepared for both indoor and outdoor play areas.
Do you offer services for pets other than dogs?
While the majority of pet daycare services in San Rafael are focused on dogs, some facilities may offer daycare for cats or other small animals. It is less common, so you will need to inquire directly. For cat-specific care, you may have better luck searching for a 'cat hotel' or a veterinarian's office that offers daytime boarding. Always confirm directly with the provider about the types of animals they accept.
How do you handle dogs that are not social or have special needs?
Many San Rafael daycares are equipped to handle dogs with different temperaments and needs. They often offer separate play areas for shy, senior, or small-breed dogs. For dogs that aren't social, some facilities provide individual play sessions or one-on-one time with a staff member instead of group play. It's crucial to discuss your dog's specific behavior, medical needs, and any anxiety (such as noise sensitivity, which can be relevant near the San Rafael airport area) during the initial evaluation.
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 San Rafael.