The Importance of Resting for Dogs

Dogs are more like us than you would think – they need time with us, their family, and their fellow furry friends and packmates. Dogs are also social creatures & natural athletes who need activity, followed by rest and recovery.

Routine rest time during daycare is not only important to the health of your pet, but also for the safety of the entire pack. Resting refers to the downtime in between playtimes during daycare. This gives your pet a chance to recuperate so they do not exhaust themselves before their visit comes to an end, which is especially important for our full day guests. Additionally, resting significantly decreases the chances of injuries within the pack. Just like with humans, rest allows for both mental and physical recovery, for their overall health and wellbeing.

My training as a veterinarian taught me to be a keen observer of the natural world, and the animals in it. At home, when I watch my own dogs, during the day they get up and play, eat, rest, and do it all over again! However, without structured rest time, some dogs will push their limits and overdo it. I’ve met a hunting dog that was having so much fun hunting, they overheated and were at risk of heat stroke. Some dogs will run and run until their muscles won’t move and they’re at risk of kidney issues, a dangerous condition known as myoglobinuria. This is where we, as their family and caretakers, come into place. We must advocate for those in our care and help them to take a break! Even peak athlete pups need rest time. For example, sled dog races require mandatory rest periods, for both the dogs and the mushers. All of us need a break to be our best selves, which is why we create resting time for your pups when they join us for daycare.

Dr. Ashley Harris

Vice President of Veterinary Operations

DVM, DABVP (Canine/Feline)