By Lauri Lee
Northside Economic Development Coalition
Jennifer StCyr, owner of the newly opened Dog Dog Daycare, is crazy about dogs. “I grew up with four dogs and, as an adult, I’ve owned five dogs.” One of her dogs adopted from the Humane Society came with dog reactivity issues. This led her to devour everything she could get her hands on to learn why each dog breed has developed the way they have, how to work with their personality and change aggressive behavior. Opening Dog Dog allowed her to apply years of gained knowledge to help other pet owners who work hard so their dogs can have a better life.
Dog Dog is like a day care for children that’s open 6 am–6 pm, Monday–Friday. Except it’s for dogs. Everybody goes home at night and there is no overnight boarding. It’s a fun, safe environment for them to be able to play, rest, receive mental stimulation and be given meals, treats, attention and training while away from their parents. Dog Park Saturday is available Oct. 20‒March 30 from 12–3 pm so dog owners have a winter alternative for playing with their dogs. For only $5, dogs can hang out with their owners and other dogs without the snow, mud and cold wind. Doggy Day School training is available for up to six dogs for small group and one-on-one training from Tyrese Evans of A Howling Good Time. Dogs receive training in manners, basic obedience, leash skills and more.
Dog Dog offers structured day care alternating between play and rest. Staff is trained in dog behavior, body language and how to interact with the dogs based on scientific methods. Staff is always interacting with the dogs and utilizing leadership skills to maintain a fun environment for everyone. Separate play areas in the 5,000 square foot space divide the small, medium and large dogs into three playgroups of 20 dogs. Half of each playgroup is active and having fun socializing with their friends under staff supervision while practicing sit and come. Meanwhile, the other 10 dogs chill in their crates. This routine alternates every two hours to keep them from getting overexcited, which could turn to aggression and fights. If the dogs ever get too crazy, staff practices obedience to refocus and calm them down.
Conveniently located at NorthGate Shopping Center, Dog Dog Daycare opened in October at 1201 N. Sherman Ave. in the former Northside Family Restaurant space. Pet owners love that there is plenty of parking and they can park near the door to drop off their pet. Grooming services will be available in the future, and eventually, a kitchen area will be added to make doggy treats. To enroll your dog, go to www.dogdogmadison.com, or contact Jennifer StCyr at Jennifer@dogdogmadison.com or call 467-9064.