Daycare Evaluation Process

Your dog's evaluation day is the first step toward joining the Fire Hydrant pack! With our evaluations our goal is to learn about your dog's personality, comfort level, play style, and communication so we can determine whether our daycare is the right fit.

What Happens during an evaluation?

Throughout the day, we'll observe how your dog:

  • Interacts with the teachers, aka the Rufferee’s

  • Interacts with other dogs and the ability to pick up social cues

  • Responds to new environments, especially since our daycare is all window

  • Meets other dogs 1:1 and in a small group

  • Responds to others coming in and out of a gate/threshold

  • Communicates during play

  • Handles excitement and downtime

  • Participates in enrichment activities

  • Adjusts to the daycare routine

We introduce dogs gradually rather than placing them directly into a large group. Every dog moves at their own pace, and our team adjusts based on their comfort level.

Important Details

  • Evaluation Fee: $40.00 per dog

  • Evaluations are conducted on Mondays and Fridays only.

  • Drop-Off: Between 7:00 AM and 8:15 AM

    • We schedule evaluations before the majority of our daycare students arrive. This gives your dog the opportunity to explore the space, meet comfortable with our team, and meet other dogs gradually without the excitement of a full daycare already in progress.

  • Pick-Up: 3:00 PM–4:00 PM

  • Vaccination Records must be received prior to the evaluation

Food + Treats

Treats used throughout the day are included. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, prescription treats, a special lunch, and/or dietary restrictions — please share that information with the Fire Hydrant team so we may ensure they receive only the food/treats you provide.

What to Expect After the Evaluation

Your dog's first daycare experience is a big adventure! Between exploring a new environment, meeting new people and canine friends, participating in enrichment activities, and learning the daycare routine, they'll experience plenty of mental and physical stimulation. So please keep the following in mind:

  • It's Normal for Your Dog to Be Tired

    • Many first-time daycare dogs go home ready for a long nap and that's completely normal.

    • We provide scheduled rest periods around 10:30–11:00 AM and again around 3:00 PM, but many first-time pups are too excited to settle down. Don't be surprised if they spend the rest of the evening (and into the next day) catching up on sleep!

  • Mild Stomach Upset Can Happen

    • Some dogs may experience mild diarrhea or an upset stomach after their first visit. This is typically temporary and can be caused by the excitement of a new environment, increased activity throughout the day, and/or sampling different treats.

    • If your dog has food allergies, a sensitive stomach, or follows a special diet, please let us know before their evaluation. You're welcome to provide treats or food from home, and we'll happily use those instead.

At pick-up, we'll review how your dog did throughout the day and answer any questions you may have! If your dog is approved to join our daycare program, we'll also discuss scheduling, and any tips to help make future visits a success.