What happens at a dog daycare Evaluation Day? A guide for Lacey pet parents
Leaving your dog somewhere new for the first time is a big deal. Here's how our free, 10–15 minute Evaluation Day works, and how to get your pup ready.
Leaving your dog somewhere new for the first time is a big deal. You're handing over a family member, and you want to know they'll be safe, happy and understood.
That's why every pup at Bark Yes! starts with a free Evaluation Day. It takes just 10–15 minutes, and it lets us match your dog with a playgroup they'll actually love before their first full day of play.
Why every pup is evaluated first
Group play is fun for most dogs, but it isn't one-size-fits-all. Some pups love a busy play floor from minute one. Others need a slower introduction or a calmer group.
An evaluation lets our team learn your dog's play style, energy and comfort level. Then we place them with pups of similar size and temperament.
It looks after your dog, too. Every pup in their playgroup has been evaluated the same way.
How Evaluation Day works
Create your profile
Book online in a few minutes and upload your dog's vaccine records. Tell us about their quirks. We read every note.
Come in for Evaluation Day
A free, 10–15 minute visit. Our team watches body language, play style and comfort level, then introduces your pup to the group that fits their size and temperament. You will hear from us at pickup about how it went.
Welcome to the pack
Once approved, book daycare, boarding and grooming anytime from the client portal, and get report cards and photos from each visit.
What our team looks for
We're not grading your dog. We're getting to know them. Here is what our team pays attention to:
Relaxed body language
Loose movement, soft eyes and a tail held at a natural height.
Healthy play signals
Play bows, taking turns chasing, and pausing to reset.
Comfort with handling
How your pup reacts to a gentle touch on the collar, paws or back.
Bouncing back
How quickly they settle after something exciting or surprising.
We also watch for signs a pup needs more time, like hiding, a stiff posture or trouble calming down. None of these is a failure. They tell us how to set your dog up for a good day.
He always has an amazing time and is excited to go and then sleeps like a baby when we get home!
How to get your pup ready
- Upload vaccine records first. DAPP, Rabies and Bordetella are required for every guest, and we check them before your visit.
- Take a short walk. It burns off a little nervous energy before you arrive.
- Skip the big meal. A light snack beforehand is fine.
- Bring a flat collar or harness. A standard leash is all you need with it.
- Keep the goodbye calm and upbeat. Dogs read our mood, and a confident handoff helps them settle.
What if my pup isn't ready for group play yet?
That's okay, and it's more common than you might think. Some dogs are shy, some are still learning their social skills, and some simply prefer people to a pack.
If a playgroup isn't the right fit today, we'll tell you what we saw and talk through what could help. Many pups build confidence over time and grow into happy daycare regulars.
Frequently asked questions
Is Evaluation Day free?
Yes. It's always free for new pups.
How long does it take?
Just 10–15 minutes.
Which vaccines does my dog need?
DAPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvo, parainfluenza), Rabies and Bordetella (kennel cough) are required for daycare and boarding. Leptospirosis and canine influenza are recommended.
What happens after the evaluation?
You will hear from us at pickup about how it went. Once approved, you can book daycare, boarding and grooming anytime from the client portal.
Ready to join the pack?
New pups start with a free, 10–15 minute evaluation. Book online and we'll take it from there.