What is STEPP Daycare?

STEPP stands for Socialization, Training, Enrichment, & Play Program. STEPP is not just daycare, but a customized day of enrichment for dogs of all life-stages. STEPP provides custom social outlet sessions with other pups match by temperament, and includes ample enrichment activities for decompression and opportunities for learning. Our staff can customize social outlets and enrichment based on each dog’s energy level, social tolerance, age, and other preferences.

Example of a Typical Day in STEPP

7am-9am: Drop-off: Breakfast (optional, owner provided)

9am-10am: Social Outlet Session

10am-10:30am: Puzzle/Snuffle Activity

10:30am-11am: Exploration Walk

10:30-11:30am: Social Outlet Session

11:30am-1pm: Independent Enrichment & Rest

12pm-2pm: Camp Activity (arts & crafts, photo session, or special themed activity)

1pm-2pm: Social Outlet Session

2pm-2:30pm: Brain Games Session

2:30pm-4ppm: Independent Enrichment (Digestible Chew & Rest Time)

4pm-4:30pm: Exploration Walk

4:30pm-5pm: Social Outlet Session

5pm-7pm: Pick up – Dinner (optional, owner provided)

Requirements

STEPP is for all ages! Every visit is customizable to any life-stage, energy level, and temperament. If your puppy is under 12 months old, they may be eligible for our Puppy STEPP Daycare.

All dogs participating in STEPP must be comfortable being isolated to a suite. All our suites have a dog bed and are appropriately sized for your dog. If your dog has separation anxiety concerns, please reach out via email to training@theboardhound.com prior to registering for STEPP.

Dogs participating in STEPP are not required to be altered. However, please keep your dog home if they are in heat. Unaltered participants may be restricted from interacting with some dogs (i.e. intact males and unaltered females will be kept separate).