Dog Daycare Offers Fun for Dogs And Peace of Mind for Owners

Paws and Play, a state-of-the-art daycare, boarding and training center for dogs of all shapes and sizes, recently opened its 9,000-square-foot facility in Tuckahoe. The brand new multi-million-dollar facility, which boasts 3 large indoor play centers, as well as an expansive outdoor play yard and sun deck, keeps area pooches happy, active and well socialized. Like people, dogs can get lonely when they are left alone for long periods of time. According to area vets and dog trainers I spoke with, the benefits of canine daycare include teaching dogs how to properly socialize; serving as an outlet for dogs to get the exercise they need to maintain a healthy mind and proper weight; and reducing behavior problems, such as chewing, digging, and going through the trash.

All pets that come to Paws and Play must pass an evaluation test for the safety of all the dogs and staff. In the play centers, dogs are grouped by size, activity level and sociability to ensure hours of good old-fashioned play time with climbing structures, chairs to sit on and balls to chase. The staff provides stimulating games and obedience tasks, such as group “sits” and “follow the leader.” Furthermore, Paws and Play has a continuing education program for all of their daycare staff. In the large grooming areas, the center offers everything from baths to teeth brushing by its experienced staff. An interesting aside, before opening Paws and Play, local resident Matt Sellechia spent two years traveling visiting dog training and boarding facilities for research purposes. To further his knowledge base, Sellecchia became a certified dog trainer.

For guests who require overnight accommodations, there are luxurious private rooms equipped with skylights, flat screen televisions, piped-in music, night-lights, and ceiling fans. For those owners who want to spoil their pet even more, the staff will read your pampered pooch bedtime stories, so don’t forget Fido’s favorite book. Sellecchia’s goal was to create a fun, safe environment where he would want to bring his own dog. “The last thing I wanted was to be associated with a tradition kennel. When you hear the word kennel, most people think of dogs in cages getting no exercise or attention. At Paws and Play we are the complete opposite of that. Every guest receives tons of personal attention and our menu of activities and pampering sessions will keep them active and happy during their stay.”

There are 11 skylights to allow natural light into the building and a sophisticated air filtration system provides optimum ventilation for their furry guests. Every room has a central vacuum, running water, and antiseptic materials, as well as an elimination area (akin to a patch of grass) to keep the dog areas as clean and odor free as possible. The building also has a shower for dogs, a laundry facility with commercial machines, and a food preparation area to accommodate special diets.

Testimonials can be found on the center’s website, and you can always email me with any questions, as my puppy Winter is a regular (she loves it!). Paws and Play Pet Resort and Training Center. Daycare Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm; Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm; Sunday, 11 am to 3 pm. Half day options available. Call 914-337-2948 or visit www.pawsandplaypetresort.com for more information. Ample on-site parking.