Doggy Daycare in Northfield, MN

Cannon Valley Veterinary Clinic  offers supervised weekday doggy daycare in Northfield, MN. A free initial assessment helps staff understand each dog’s temperament, energy, and comfort before placing them in an appropriate playgroup, rather than simply dividing dogs according to physical size.

A Balanced Day of Play and Rest

Doggy daycare gives participating dogs opportunities for supervised activity, social interaction, individual attention, and scheduled downtime. Active periods are divided by a midday break, helping dogs enjoy an engaging day without requiring continuous play from drop-off through pickup.

Doggy Daycare FAQs

Every dog responds differently to a group environment. These answers explain enrollment requirements, vaccines, assessments, grouping, hours, and rates.

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What does my dog need before attending daycare?
Current shot records are required for socialized canine play registration and participation. You may call us ahead of time with your veterinary information so we can verify immunization records, or bring the veterinary records with you at check-in. Any pet that is not current on vaccinations may be turned away. We highly recommend having your dog's kennel cough vaccine done seven to ten days before attending daycare.
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Does my dog need to be spayed or neutered?
Yes, for playgroup participation. All animals must be spayed or neutered if over six months of age to be allowed in the playgroup. Dogs older than six months may still board with us if they are not spayed or neutered, but they cannot participate in playgroup.
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Is an assessment required before daycare?
Yes. An assessment of your dog's temperament and socialization must be made before that dog is allowed into playtime for boarding or doggy daycare. Cannon Valley Veterinary Clinic provides this initial assessment at no charge, and it helps staff determine whether group daycare and a particular playgroup are appropriate.
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What behavior or health issues would keep my dog out of playgroup?
Sick dogs are not permitted. If any dog appears to be of ill health, including vomiting, diarrhea, goopy eyes, or coughing, they will not be permitted into the playgroup. For safety purposes, we also reserve the right to excuse any dog that exhibits aggressive behavior. Dogs are removed from playtime upon the first sign of aggression and may no longer be allowed in playtime in the future.
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Does my dog need flea and parasite prevention?

We highly recommend that your dog be on year-round flea and parasite prevention, including heartworm medication. If your dog is seen to have fleas or parasites while in our facility, we will automatically treat them, and you will be charged for that treatment.

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When is doggy daycare available?
Doggy daycare is available Monday through Friday. Active daycare generally runs from 8:30 AM until approximately 11:45 AM or noon and again from 1:00 PM until around 4:00 PM. Early drop-off begins at 7:00 AM, and late pickup is available until 7:00 PM.
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How are dogs placed into daycare groups?
Dogs are not divided strictly according to physical size. The smaller or lower-energy group may include older dogs, less energetic dogs, and larger dogs that are more comfortable with calmer companions. Placement is based on temperament, energy, and play style.
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How much does doggy daycare cost?
The daycare and day-boarding rate is $23 per session. After clients purchase 10 sessions, they receive two additional sessions at no charge. The clinic tracks this savings program internally, so clients do not need a physical card.
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What is Waffle Wednesday?
Waffle Wednesday is an optional daycare treat available for an additional $5. Participating dogs receive a waffle with whipped cream. Owners should contact the daycare team if they have questions about participation or their dog's dietary needs.

What Your Dog’s Daycare Schedule Includes

Dogs may arrive as early as 7 AM, before the first active daycare period begins around 8:30 AM. Morning play continues until approximately noon, followed by a break for rest. Afternoon daycare generally runs from 1 PM until around 4 PM, with pickup available as late as 7 PM.

Daycare staff supervise interactions and adjust group placement according to each dog’s behavior and comfort. The calmer group can accommodate older, less energetic, or easily overwhelmed dogs even when they are not physically small. Learn more about our daycare care team and contact retail@cvvclinic.com with daycare questions.

Preparing Your Dog for Daycare

A free assessment helps determine whether group daycare suits your individual dog.

Start by completing the doggy daycare enrollment form, then contact the daycare team to schedule an assessment. Owners who also need overnight care can explore the pet hotel and boarding service. The connected pet retail store provides food, treats, toys, and select pet care products, while wellness visits support ongoing veterinary needs. View all pet and veterinary services.

Brown dog with amber eyes sitting indoors, tongue out, wearing a collar