If you’re considering dog daycare or boarding for your furry friend, you’ve probably come across the term Meet & Greet. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it such an essential step?

A Meet & Greet is more than just a quick introduction—it’s an opportunity for your dog to explore a new environment, interact with staff, and get a feel for the daycare routine. At the same time, it allows professionals to assess your dog’s personality, comfort level, and compatibility with other dogs. Think of it as a "trial 15-30 min" where both sides get to know each other before making a commitment.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about a Meet & Greet, from what to expect to how to prepare, so you and your pup can step into the experience with confidence!

Why Do Dog Daycares Require a Meet & Greet?

Meet & Greets are a standard requirement at most reputable dog daycare and boarding facilities—and for good reason. They ensure that your dog (and the other dogs in attendance) will have a safe, happy, and stress-free experience. Here’s why they’re so important:

🐶 Temperament Assessment: Finding the Right Fit

Not every dog enjoys daycare, and that’s completely okay! Some thrive in a social setting, while others prefer quieter environments. During the Meet & Greet, trained staff observe how your dog reacts to new surroundings, people, and other dogs. They’ll look for signs of excitement, curiosity, or anxiety to determine if daycare is a good fit.

🏥 Health & Safety First

One sick dog can put an entire daycare at risk. That’s why facilities require up-to-date vaccination records and, in some cases, a recent negative fecal test before allowing your pup to participate. This step protects not only your dog but all the others who attend the facility.

🐾 Easing Separation Anxiety

Some dogs experience stress when away from their owners, especially if they’ve never been to daycare before. The Meet & Greet helps gauge their reaction and provides an opportunity to gradually introduce them to the new setting, making future visits easier.

🏡 A Chance to Explore the Environment

Dogs rely on their senses to feel secure in a new space. At the Meet & Greet, they get a chance to sniff around, familiarize themselves with the surroundings, and start associating the facility with positive experiences.

What to Expect During a Meet & Greet?

Every facility has its own process, but most follow a structured approach to ensure a smooth introduction. Here’s a general breakdown of what you and your pup can expect:

🐕 1. One-on-One Introduction with Staff

A daycare staff member will greet your dog in a calm, quiet area, allowing them to get acquainted at their own pace. They’ll observe body language, confidence levels, and comfort in new surroundings.

🐾 2. Small Group Playtime

If your dog seems comfortable, they’ll be introduced to a few hand-picked, well-socialized dogs. This is done gradually to avoid overwhelming them. Staff will monitor interactions to see if your pup enjoys social play or prefers to keep to themselves.

🎾 3. Supervised Play & Social Evaluation

If your dog shows interest in playing, they’ll engage in a short, controlled play session. Here, staff will assess their play style—are they gentle? Rough-and-tumble? Do they prefer independent exploration? This helps determine the best playgroup for them if they are accepted.

💬 4. Feedback & Next Steps

At the end of the Meet & Greet, the staff will provide feedback on how your dog did. They may recommend full daycare visits, suggest shorter trial stays, or advise alternative options if daycare doesn’t seem like the right fit.

How to Prepare for a Meet & Greet

Want to set your dog up for success? A little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to make sure your pup has the best possible experience:

✅ Ensure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Most facilities require proof of rabies, distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations. Some may also request a recent fecal test to ensure your dog isn’t carrying parasites. Checking these requirements ahead of time will prevent any last-minute surprises.

🕰 Pick the Right Time

Timing is everything! Choose a time when your dog is well-rested but not overly energetic. Avoid scheduling right after vaccinations, big life changes, or stressful events.

🎒 Bring the Essentials

Pack a leash, a secure collar with ID tags, and any relevant medical or behavioral notes. Some daycares allow you to bring a familiar blanket or toy to make your dog feel more comfortable.

🗣 Use a Positive, Calm Tone

Dogs pick up on our emotions. If you’re anxious, they’ll sense it. Speak in a reassuring voice and make the experience feel exciting rather than intimidating.

🏋️‍♂️ Burn Off Excess Energy Beforehand

If your dog tends to have lots of pent-up energy, take them for a short walk or play session before the Meet & Greet. This helps them stay focused and less overwhelmed.

What If My Dog Doesn’t Pass?

Not all dogs are suited for daycare, and that’s completely fine! Here’s what might happen if your pup isn’t quite ready:

❌ Signs Daycare Might Not Be the Best Fit:

• Excessive Anxiety – If your dog appears highly stressed or shuts down, daycare may not be enjoyable for them.

• Aggressive Behavior – If your pup shows aggression toward other dogs or staff, it may not be a safe environment for them.

• Health Issues – If your dog has an underlying medical condition or isn’t up to date on vaccinations, they may be denied entry.

✔️ What Are the Alternatives?

If daycare isn’t the right fit, there are other great options, such as:

• One-on-One Pet Sitting – Ideal for dogs who prefer human companionship over dog playgroups.

• Smaller Playgroups – Some facilities offer small-group play or structured socialization programs.

• Training & Socialization Classes – If anxiety or social skills are the issue, training classes can help build confidence.

Final Thoughts: A Stress-Free Start for Your Pup

A Meet & Greet is the perfect opportunity to introduce your dog to daycare in a way that feels safe, positive, and pressure-free. It’s not just about seeing if daycare is a good fit—it’s about setting your pup up for success and making sure they have the best experience possible.

By preparing ahead of time, knowing what to expect, and trusting the process, you’ll make the transition smooth for both you and your furry friend.

Thinking about daycare for your dog? Schedule a Meet & Greet at Barkingham Place and give your pup a chance to explore, play, and meet new friends!

If you are wondering where are we located, we are right off of South first and William Cannon in South Austin!

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