Preparing for Your Dog's First Day at Hilltop
First daycare days can feel nerve-wracking, but they do not need to be. Here is a simple guide to what to bring, what to skip, and how to make the morning go smoothly.
What to Bring
Your dog on a leash. That is the most important thing. Keep the leash on for the initial arrival and handoff, even if your dog is usually off-leash friendly.
Food and medications if needed. If your dog eats on a specific schedule or has medications due during the day, bring them clearly labeled. We follow your instructions exactly.
Vaccination records for the first visit. We need to verify current Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccines. A photo of the vet record on your phone works fine.
A familiar item if you want. A worn t-shirt, a favorite toy, or a small blanket can help some dogs settle in faster. It is not required, but for anxious dogs it sometimes helps.
What to Leave Home
High-value food or treats. We manage treats carefully to avoid resource guarding among the group. Unless your dog has a medical reason for specific treats, skip them.
Aggressive chew toys or bones. Same reason. Play should be shared and safe.
Anxiety about the drop-off. Dogs read your energy. If you are stressed and prolonging the goodbye, your dog picks up on that. Say a quick, cheerful goodbye and leave. It works better for everyone.
What to Expect on Day One
Most dogs do one of two things: they dive right in, or they need 20 to 30 minutes to warm up. Both are completely normal. We do careful introductions and never rush a dog who needs more time.
Some dogs come home from day one completely exhausted. This is a good sign. Social play and new stimulation take real energy.
We will typically send you a message or photo during the day so you know how things are going.
After the First Day
Pick-up dogs are usually tired, happy, and ready for a quiet evening. That is the whole point. Feed them their normal dinner, let them rest, and notice how they are at home that evening and the next morning.
Most dogs who do well at Hilltop are calmer, less destructive, and more settled at home because they are getting real physical and social enrichment during the day.
Questions before the first visit? Reach out through our contact page. We answer quickly and are happy to walk through anything.