Daycare & Socialization Services
Not Your Typical Doggie Daycare
The traditional doggie daycare format involves putting massive groups of dogs together, sometimes separated by “large” and “small” dogs, but gives very little thought to dogs’ individual energy levels, personalities, and play styles. Introducing a new dog into this group can create a “me vs. them” mentality, and can also foster an unhealthy need for a dog (particularly a young, high-energy dog) to be in “go, go, go!” mode all the time. This can create problems at home when these dogs don’t get that outlet and makes them unpleasant living partners.
Before we can begin a service-dog training program, you need to have a dog to train. Being an OWNER TRAINING PROGRAM means that handlers bring their own dogs to us for training – but not all dogs make good service dogs. You will find yourself in one of the two situations below:
How Are We Different?
At our heart, we want dogs to be our partners, which means being able to go out in the world and do stuff, but also to cohabitate peacefully and have good social skills. We have structured our daycare a little differently, to give dogs more of a “home away from home” feeling and to foster good behaviors:
- Maximum of 8 dogs per play group – These smaller group sizes allow us to match dogs based on more factors, like temperament, play styles, age, and energy level so we ensure all dogs are having a good time. These smaller groups also allow for more natural rest periods
- Spacious yards with shelters allow for rest – Each of our yards is an open, natural-grass area that is either attached to one of our sleeping barns or has daytime shelters. There is enough space that dogs can take breaks when needed — having a natural flow of play / rest / play / rest eliminates the constant state of high arousal that can create problems at home.
- “Difficult Dogs” can have daycare too! – Dogs who are not universally social often don’t get accepted into a traditional doggy daycare. However, because we are a training facility we can integrate dogs that might not be able to participate otherwise. If you have a dog that can only be select types of other dogs, we may be a great fit for you! For dogs who can’t be combined in any groups, our trainers might be able to help! We offer a daycare + training option to help your dog learn better social skills and to become more balanced.
We strive to create good habits for dogs in our care. If we observe behaviors contributing to poor social skills (i.e. fence fighting with other dogs, too rough play, etc.) or amplifying stress, we will provide owners with a detailed report and recommendation at pickup. We have a team of highly skilled and educated trainers on staff we can put you in contact with to help your dog get the most benefit out of their time with us!
We also recognize that daycare is a highly stimulating environment. In consideration of our dogs’ mental and physical wellbeing, we ask clients to limit daycare visits to a maximum of 3x per week.
Daycare Rates & Scheduling
Because of our training services, we do not offer “drop-in” daycare. Daycare must be scheduled ahead of time by using our online form or by contacting the office!
Drop Off & Pick Up Hours
7AM-12:30PM & 2:30PM-7PM Every Day
Full Day (More Than 5 Hours) – $32
Half Day (Up To 5 Hours) – $21
Additional Dog Same Family – $21
Puppy Yard (puppies <6 months) – $15
Schedule a Today!
Call (406)414-6627
Kennel Staff
Athena
Kennel Manager
Athena is at home in the Bitterroot valley, taking advantage of so many of the things our state has to offer. An avid outdoorswoman, dog owner, and mom of two teenage boys, Athena brings with her a background in education and ranch management, with an extreme eye for detail. Her efficiency and care for our client dogs’ health and safety have made her an invaluable part of the True Companion family!
Hannah
Kennel Lead
Hannah, originally from Massachusetts, moved to Montana in 2020 after working as a medic in Boston. A volunteer with Team Rubicon Disaster Response, they’ve participated in relief operations worldwide. Hannah loves traveling, having visited 9 countries and 32 states. Their passion for animals comes from their grandmother, who bred and showed miniature schnauzers. Hannah currently has three dogs: Mooney (bloodhound mix), Daisy (Australian shepherd), and R2-D2 (smooth collie).
Hailey
Kennel Lead
Hailey joined the team in March 2024. In her personal time she loves snuggling up with a dog and a good book, as well as volunteering for the Street Dog Coalition. She has one personal dog; Eve, a border collie mix!
Kevin
Kennel Technician
Kevin joined the team in October 2024. He’s currently a student and is our overnight expert – keeping all of our furry clients safe at the kennel during the dark hours. He is also a skilled contractor and is a lifesaver with repairs and upgrades at the kennel!
Shaela
Kennel Technician
Shaela is a true Montana girl, and has lived in the Bitterroot valley her whole life. She’s got a crazy little farm with 2 cats, 4 chickens, 8 horses, and three dogs – Malibu an Aussie mix, Rip a toy aussie, and Copper the corgi mix! She was an active member of 4H for 9 years and grew up riding horses. Shaela says, “I love every animal. I’m more of an animal person than a people person.” We’re glad to have her!