10 Things to Look for in a Dog Daycare (Why Oz Wagtails Leads the Pack in Brisbane)
Finding the Perfect Daycare for Your Dog
Choosing a dog daycare isn’t just about convenience — it’s about ensuring your pet’s safety, comfort, and wellbeing.
A quick search on Google will show that not all centres offer the same level of care. Some shine with consistent praise; others fall short.
Here’s a 10-point checklist for picking the right dog daycare in Brisbane, with a comparison of common pitfalls and how Oz Wagtails in Darra, West Brisbane gets it right.
1. Collar & Lead Safety
Other centres: Leave collars on in play areas, risking tangles or injuries.
Oz Wagtails: We remove collars and leads on arrival, store them on clearly labelled boards, and only put them back on at pick-up time. This follows RSPCA Queensland guidelines for safe group play.
2. Air-Conditioned Comfort
Other centres: Limited or no climate control, leading to discomfort during Brisbane’s hot summers.
Oz Wagtails: Fully air-conditioned year-round, keeping dogs cool in summer and comfortable in winter — important for heat-sensitive breeds Australian Veterinary Association.
3. Twice-Daily Cleaning Routine
Other centres: Infrequent cleaning, creating odours and allowing germs to linger.
Oz Wagtails: Play areas are cleaned just before midday and at the end of the day using pet-safe products, following hygiene recommendations from the Pet Industry Association of Australia.
4. Fresh Water at All Times
Other centres: Limited water stations or poorly maintained bowls.
Oz Wagtails: Multiple water bowls in each area, refreshed and cleaned with Vet safe products throughout the day to prevent dehydration RSPCA’s pet care advice.
5. Grouping by Personality, Not Just Size
Other centres: Sort dogs by size only, which can lead to less play, stress or conflicts.
Oz Wagtails: Dogs are matched by temperament and personality. Quieter dogs enjoy the “small side,” while more energetic dogs play in the “large side”, ensuring every dog is comfortable and enjoys their stay.
6. Qualified, Attentive Staff
Other centres: Understaffed or inexperienced carers.
Oz Wagtails: Staff are trained in dog behaviour and safe handling. We have multiple trainers and a Vet nurse that brings over 32 years ov experience to the centre.
7. Indoor and Outdoor Play Options
Other centres: Small or no outdoor space for dogs to explore.
Oz Wagtails: Spacious indoor and outdoor play zones, allowing dogs to move freely and enjoy a variety of environments.
8. High Hygiene Standards
Clean environments reduce the spread of disease and make for happier dogs.
Oz Wagtails follows industry best practices by using pet-safe disinfectants, regularly sanitising bowls, and cleaning high-contact surfaces, consistent with Pet Industry Association of Australia guidelines.
9. Transparent Communication
Other centres: Limited updates or no communication during the day.
Oz Wagtails: We provide regular updates and feedback so owners always know how their dog is doing, building trust and peace of mind.
10. Location and Accessibility
Other centres: Remote or inconvenient locations that make drop-off difficult.
Oz Wagtails: Located in Darra, West Brisbane, close to major roads for easy drop-off and pick-up.
Why This Matters for Your Dog
Daycares that neglect safety, hygiene, or supervision risk both the physical and emotional wellbeing of dogs in their care. By choosing a centre that consistently meets high standards, you give your dog a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience.
See the Oz Wagtails Difference
Address: Unit 1/28 Sumners Road, Darra QLD 4076
Phone: (07) 3279 6199
Website: www.wagtails.com.au
Book a visit today and see why our tails are always wagging.