Dog Daycare Debuts with Howling Success

LSU Vet Med Dog Daycare Center officially opened in August with a celebratory gathering involving tours and treats for all.

Nearly a dozen dogs were signed up by their owners for the first week of daycare with plenty of fun, enrichment activities, and supplemental training taking place.

The daily schedule begins with breakfast and potty walks followed by one-on-one activities with staff and dogs. Then comes lunch, indoor activities such as puzzle toys, lick mats, and meeting other dogs in groups of three or four with three staffers on hand. Afternoons bring outdoor activities, including a wading pool and splash pads, followed by potty walks, and individual kennel time for rest and naps. Owners receive fun daily “report cards” on how their dogs did throughout the day.

Heading up the Dog Daycare Center is Destiny Stuart, who has more than 13 years of combined animal care and grooming experience. Her full-time staff include Liz, with 20 years of dog training experience, and Jessica, with a combined grooming and daycare experience of six years. Eight student workers assist and more are expected to be hired as business increases.

“Pets are getting personalized care. It’s really touching to see certain dogs come out of their shell here. We always go the extra mile to make sure dogs get the most out of their experience,” Destiny said. Offering an array of services for LSU Vet Med faculty, staff, and students, the Center is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and currently can accommodate up to 38 dogs. Dogs are monitored by at least one staff member at all times, with emails and text updates for owners throughout the day. Pricing packages include discounts for those registering for multiple days.

The facility is equipped to provide full-service grooming, two outdoor securely fenced yards with shade canopies, and spacious indoor play areas and kennels.

Dog owners fill out an application that provides information about their pets, including physical and behavioral needs, temperament, and preferences. Proof of all current vaccines and preventatives are required.

“We’re also well equipped to handle special needs dogs,” she said.

Destiny, Dog Daycare Center coordinator, can be reached at (225) 334-1312 or via email at dstuar2@lsu.edu.