# PAWS Dog Daycare Calgary — Full Content > This document contains the complete text content of key pages on pawsdogdaycare.ca for efficient AI retrieval. Last updated: April 4, 2026. - [Concise page index](/llms.txt): Quick reference with all page links --- ## Contact & Business Information - **Name**: PAWS Dog Daycare Calgary - **Address**: 1313 16 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0Z7 - **Phone**: (403) 984-9247 - **Email**: info@pawsdogdaycare.ca - **Hours**: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Closed weekends, statutory holidays, Christmas-New Year's) - **Drop-off**: 7:00 - 10:00 AM - **Pickup**: 3:30 - 7:00 PM - **Founded**: 2010 - **Owner**: Eric Yeung - **Rating**: 4.8/5 from 160+ Google reviews - **Style**: Kennel-free, open-play - **Website**: https://www.pawsdogdaycare.ca - **Vet Partners**: Downtown Animal Clinic (primary), Western Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centre (emergency) - **Social**: [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/PAWSDogDaycare), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pawsdogdaycare), [Google](https://g.page/pawsdogdaycare) --- ## Dog Daycare Calgary PAWS Dog Daycare in Calgary costs $37-$59.50 per day and includes a daily 45-60 minute adventure pack walk with every visit. We've been Calgary's trusted kennel-free daycare since 2010, serving dogs daily with experienced pack leaders, small playgroups, and a facility where no dog is ever crated. ### What Makes PAWS Different Most daycares keep dogs indoors all day. At PAWS, every dog gets a 45-60 minute adventure pack walk through Calgary's parks and pathways — included with every visit, at no extra charge. - **Daily Pack Walks**: 45-60 min outdoor adventure, every day - **Kennel-Free**: No crates, no cages — ever - **Small Playgroups**: Matched by size and temperament - **Experienced Staff**: Pack leaders with 16+ years of experience who know every dog by name - **Free First Day**: Try us with zero commitment - **16+ Years in Calgary**: Trusted by families since 2010 - **Monthly Themed Photoshoots**: Professional photos exclusive to our community - **3 Outdoor Potty Breaks**: Scheduled daily for comfort and house training ### A Typical Day at PAWS | Time | Activity | |------|----------| | 7:00-10:00 AM | Drop-off & check-in | | 10:00-11:00 AM | Adventure pack walk (45-60 min) | | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM | Supervised open play in small groups | | 1:00-2:00 PM | Rest & recharge | | 2:00-3:30 PM | Afternoon play session | | 3:30-7:00 PM | Pickup window | ### Daycare Pricing | Package | Price/Day | Total | Savings | |---------|-----------|-------|---------| | Drop-In Day | $59.50 + GST | $59.50 | — | | 5-Visit Pass | $57.30 + GST | $286.50 | Save $11 | | 10-Visit Pass | $54.40 + GST | $544 | Save $51 | | 20-Visit Pass | $47.45 + GST | $949 | Save $241 | | Calendar Month (Unlimited) | ~$37 + GST | $769 | Best Value — save $480+ | All passes (except Calendar Month) never expire and are 100% transferable. 50% refund on unused value. Calendar Month includes free nail trims and 10% off retail & grooming. Multi-dog discount: 50% off second dog's pass. First day is free. ### Vaccination Requirements | Vaccination | Details | Frequency | |-------------|---------|-----------| | Rabies | Mandatory per Alberta regulation | Per vet schedule (1-3 years) | | DHPP | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus | Annual | | Bordetella | Kennel cough prevention — required for group settings | Every 6-12 months | Dogs must also be spayed or neutered if over 1 year old. Puppies welcome at 12 weeks with at least 2 sets of vaccinations. ### Daycare FAQ **How much does dog daycare cost in Calgary?** At PAWS Dog Daycare, a drop-in day costs $59.50 + GST. With packages, the cost drops: 5-Visit at $57.30/day, 10-Visit at $54.40/day, 20-Visit at $47.45/day. The Calendar Month unlimited pass works out to $37/day. Every visit includes a 45-60 minute pack walk at no extra charge. The first day is free for all new dogs. **What makes PAWS different from other Calgary dog daycares?** PAWS is Calgary's only kennel-free daycare that includes daily 45-60 minute adventure pack walks with every visit. Dogs roam and play freely all day in small playgroups matched by size and temperament, supervised by experienced pack leaders who know every dog by name. **What hours is PAWS Dog Daycare open?** Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Drop-off is between 7:00 and 10:00 AM, and pickup is between 3:30 and 7:00 PM. **Do you offer a free trial day?** Yes, every new dog gets a complimentary first day at PAWS. This trial day lets your dog experience our facility, meet the pack leaders, and join a pack walk — with no commitment required. **What vaccinations are required for dog daycare at PAWS?** All dogs must be current on Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Proof of vaccination from your veterinarian is required before the first visit. **Is dog daycare good for my dog?** Dog daycare provides socialization, exercise, and mental stimulation that most dogs need and can't get from staying home alone. At PAWS, dogs get 45-60 minutes of outdoor exercise plus supervised play, reducing anxiety, destructive behaviour, and excess energy. Daycare is especially beneficial for young, high-energy, or social dogs. **How are dogs grouped at PAWS?** Dogs are grouped into small playgroups based on size, energy level, and temperament. This ensures every dog has a comfortable, safe play experience. Pack leaders monitor groups throughout the day and adjust as needed. **Where is PAWS Dog Daycare located in Calgary?** 1313 16 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0Z7, in the Sunalta/Beltline area. Easily accessible from downtown, Kensington, Mission, Bankview, and the SW communities, with street parking available. **Can I bring my puppy to daycare?** Yes! Puppies are welcome at PAWS once they have at least 2 sets of vaccinations (typically around 12 weeks). We introduce puppies gradually with appropriate playmates. Early socialization at daycare helps build confidence and good manners. --- ## Dog Grooming Calgary Professional dog grooming in Calgary by Michelle, with 40+ years of experience since 1981. Every full groom includes bath, blow dry, nail trim, ear cleaning, coat spray, and a bow or bandana. ### Grooming Prices (CAD + GST) | Size | Bath & Tidy | Bath & Tidy (Long) | Kennel Cut | Teddy Bear | Lamb Cut | |------|-------------|---------------------|------------|------------|----------| | Small | $70 | $80 | $90 | $100 | $100 | | Medium | $75 | $90 | $100 | $130 | $130 | | Large | $90 | $140 | $130 | $150+ | $150+ | | Giant | $110+ | $160+ | $150+ | $160+ | $160+ | Prices are guidelines. Nail dremel available for extra charge. Breed cuts and custom styles by quote. ### Cut Descriptions - **Bath & Tidy**: Bath, blow dry, nail trim, ear cleaning, sanitary trim, feet/featherings trim, eye and face tidy. - **Kennel Cut**: Short, uniform all-over trim (1/4" to 1/16"). Practical and low-maintenance. - **Teddy Bear Cut**: Same length all over including face, with rounded feet and head. Fluffy, plush appearance. - **Lamb Cut**: Rounded silhouette with a longer body and shorter legs. Classic fluffy, lamb-like appearance. ### Specialized Grooming Programs - **Reactive Dog Grooming**: 8-week trust-building program. Mondays only. Starting at $650 + GST. Extendable to 10 weeks at no extra charge. - **Rescued Dog Grooming**: 6-week program for newly adopted dogs. Must start within 30 days of adoption. Mondays only. Starting at $450 + GST. Extendable to 8 weeks. - **Puppy Kindergarten Grooming**: 4-week gentle introduction to grooming. Small $85+, Medium $95+, Large $115+ (plus full groom price at week 4). - **Senior & Sensitive Dogs**: Shorter sessions, extra patience, practical hairstyles. ### Grooming FAQ **How much does it cost to groom a dog in Calgary?** Grooming at PAWS ranges from $70 for a small dog bath and tidy to $160+ for a giant dog full groom. Exact price depends on size, coat condition, and service selected. **How often should a dog be professionally groomed?** Every 4-8 weeks depending on breed, coat type, and activity level. Mat-prone coats (Doodles, Poodles) need grooming every 4-6 weeks. **What dog breeds should not be shaved?** Double-coated breeds — Huskies, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Border Collies, and Pomeranians — should not be shaved. Their double coat insulates against both heat and cold, and shaving disrupts coat regrowth and increases sunburn risk. --- ## Dog Boarding Calgary Dog boarding through the PAWS Pro network. Your dog stays in a real home with someone they already know — daycare included, fully insured. ### How It Works **During the Day**: Your dog enjoys the full PAWS daycare experience — pack walks, supervised play in small groups, potty breaks, and individual attention. **At Night**: A PAWS Pro takes your dog to their home. Your dog sleeps in a real home environment — on a couch, on a dog bed — with personal attention, evening walks, and a quiet night's rest. ### Why PAWS Boarding - **Your Dog Knows Them**: PAWS Pros are current or former staff — your dog already has a relationship with them - **Full Daycare Included**: Pack walks, socialization, and supervised play every day - **Home, Not a Kennel**: Your dog sleeps in a real home, not a cage or run - **Fully Insured**: Covered by PAWS business insurance - **Text & Photo Updates**: Direct communication with your PAWS Pro - **Backup Team**: If your Pro can't continue, another qualified Pro steps in ### PAWS Boarding vs. Traditional Kennels | Feature | PAWS Boarding | Traditional Kennel | |---------|---------------|-------------------| | Where they sleep | Real home | Cage / run | | Daytime activity | Full daycare + pack walks | Limited play time | | Staff relationship | Already knows your dog | Rotation of strangers | | Overnight supervision | One-on-one in home | Often unsupervised | | Updates | Direct text + photos | Varies | | Insurance | Business insured | Varies | --- ## In-Home Pet Care in Calgary Personalized in-home pet care by trained PAWS Pros. Two options: - **Pet Sitting (Pro's Home)**: Your dog stays in the PAWS Pro's home. Weekday daycare included. Evenings and weekends, personal attention in a cozy home. - **House Sitting (Your Home)**: A PAWS Pro stays in your home with your pet. They maintain your pet's routine, care for your home, and provide familiar surroundings. ### Pet Sitting Rates - **Base Rate**: $97/night + GST (includes weekday daycare) - **10% off**: 8+ consecutive nights ($87.30/night) - **15% off**: 16+ consecutive nights ($82.45/night) - **House Sitting**: +$15/night (within 15 min of PAWS) - **Peak Dates**: +$10/night/dog (stat holidays, long weekends, Spring Break, Summer, Christmas) - **Solo Dog**: +$25/night (dog can't be with other dogs) - **Late Booking**: +$10/night (within 7 days of drop-off) - **Multiple Dogs**: -$20/dog discount (same household) - One nail trim included per stay. 25% non-refundable deposit required at booking. --- ## Puppy Daycare Calgary PAWS puppy daycare accepts puppies from 12 weeks with at least 2 sets of vaccinations. Same pricing as adult daycare ($37-$59.50/day). The critical socialization window is 3-16 weeks. ### Puppy Requirements | Requirement | Details | |-------------|---------| | Minimum Age | 12 weeks with at least 2 vaccine sets | | DHPP Vaccine | Minimum 2 sets before first visit | | Bordetella | Current before first visit | | Rabies | Required when vet administers per schedule | | Spay/Neuter | Not required under 1 year | ### How Puppy Introductions Work Puppies are not placed directly into a large group. Each new puppy goes through a structured process: meet one or two calm, size-matched companions first, then gradually expand the playgroup across visits as confidence builds. Pack leaders watch for stress signals and keep every interaction positive. --- ## Dog Training in Calgary ### Group Classes (with Cultured Canines) The C.O.O.L. Course (Canine Outdoor Obedience and Lifestyle): - **Price**: $725 + GST (PAWS clients save $25 with code paws25) - **Duration**: 7 weeks, twice per week, 1.5 hours per class (34 total hours) - **Location**: Outdoor classes at various Calgary locations (Marda Loop, Olympic Plaza, Stephen Ave, Eau Claire) - **Includes**: Hands-free leash and collar ($80 value), 10 free drop-in classes, 1 free Fitness with Fido class - **Season**: January to October - Off-leash results in 5 weeks. Covers obedience, safety, nutrition, grooming, lifestyle training. Addresses fear, anxiety, recall, aggression, leash pulling, barking, jumping, reactivity, and more. ### Board & Trains Dog stays with a PAWS Pro and receives focused professional training throughout their stay. Contact for pricing. --- ## Pet Photography Professional pet photography with Doce Photography (Vendredi/Friday), documentary photojournalistic-style photographer with 10+ years experience. - **Mini Session**: $150 — 15 min, 5 images, preselected location - **Pet Essential**: $250 — 30 min, 15 images, Calgary city limits including Big Hill Springs - **Monthly Photo Booths**: Themed sessions, exclusive to PAWS pack members - **Birthday Photos**: Included with Cake PAWty package --- ## Birthday PAWties Exclusive to PAWS pack members. Must have had at least one paid daycare stay within 6 months prior. - **Basic PAWty (Free)**: Free day of daycare + birthday cake - **Cake PAWty ($49.99)**: Free day of daycare + made-to-order cake from Arin Hiebert + birthday photo + nail trim Cake orders must be made and paid 4+ business days in advance. Non-refundable. --- ## Pet First Aid Course Hands-on pet first aid and CPR certification in one day. - **Cost**: $160 + GST - **Duration**: 8+ hours (8:00 AM - 6:00 PM) - **Location**: PAWS Dog Daycare, 1313 16 Ave SW - **Spots**: Limited to 8 participants - **Upcoming Dates**: Sunday March 8, 2026 and Sunday April 12, 2026 - **Includes**: Live demonstrations, practice with pet mannequins, printed manual, Pet First Aid Kit checklist - **Skills**: Stop bleeding, CPR, artificial respiration, poisoning recognition, heatstroke, seizures, choking, burns, frostbite, safe restraint and transport - Participants must be 16+. Dogs allowed by pre-approval only. Cancel 7+ days in advance for full refund. --- ## About Us PAWS was founded in 2010. Our mission is to create a nurturing, inclusive environment for pets and their families. We deliver an exceptional dog daycare experience that recognizes the unique needs of every individual dog — regardless of size, breed, or temperament. ### Leadership - **Eric Yeung** (Owner & Head Trainer): Self-taught dog trainer since 2010. Studied under Cesar Millan and Ian Dunbar. Works with dogs from basic obedience to fearful and reactive rehabilitation. - **Bridget** (General Manager): Manages day-to-day operations. Adopted rescue pup Bentley from AARCS. - **Michelle** (Groomer): 40+ years experience since 1981. Started at parents' kennel, career at 9th Ave Animal Clinic. Spots health issues early for clients. ### Pack Leaders & Supervisors Melissa (Veterinary Assistant graduate, 2017), Sheri Malinis, Rebecca Neal (trained at Cultured Canines, 2018), Ali Anderson, Kandy Leung, Julia Chtchetinina. --- ## Our Training Standards 16 years of hands-on experience shapes every person on our team. At PAWS, real-world competency is the credential that matters. ### How We Train Staff 1. **Small Pack Walks (2-3 dogs)**: Every new team member starts here — reading body language, maintaining calm, managing leash tension, learning individual personalities. 2. **Expanded Responsibility (up to 8 dogs)**: Pattern recognition, spatial awareness, group dynamics. 3. **Lunch Service & Potty Breaks**: Precision and attentiveness — every dog's specific routine, dietary needs, medications. 4. **Full Room Supervision (15-20 dogs)**: Monitor entire group, anticipate conflicts, facilitate healthy play, maintain calm. ### Structured Socialization Methodology - **One new dog per day maximum**: New dog integrated gradually, not thrown into chaos. - **All sizes together**: Every dog learns to coexist safely regardless of size. Facilities that separate strictly by size often lack competency to manage mixed packs. - **Results**: Calm, controlled environment — no excessive barking or stress. ### Daily Standard of Care Every dog, every day: 3 outdoor potty breaks, 45-minute supervised pack walk, structured play and rest periods, continuous staff supervision, individual attention and mealtimes, 100% kennel-free. --- ## Service Area PAWS Dog Daycare at 1313 16 Ave SW serves all Calgary neighbourhoods. Located at the intersection of 16 Ave SW (Trans-Canada), Crowchild Trail, 14 St SW, and Bow Trail — accessible from all quadrants. ### Drive Times **5 Minutes or Less**: Sunalta (<2 min), Bankview (3 min), Marda Loop, Killarney, Beltline, Shaganappi, Altadore, South Calgary (5 min). **Around 10 Minutes**: Mission (7 min), Downtown (7 min), Kensington (8 min), Hillhurst (8 min), Parkdale (8 min), Bridgeland (10 min), Ramsay (10 min), Inglewood (10 min). **15-20 Minutes**: NW Calgary (12-15 min), NE Calgary (15-20 min), SE Calgary (15-20 min), SW Suburbs (15 min). **Worth the Drive (20+ Minutes)**: Airdrie (30 min), Cochrane (30 min), Okotoks (30 min). --- ## Guides Summary ### Best Dog Daycare in Calgary 2026 Comprehensive comparison guide evaluating Calgary daycares. PAWS recommended for kennel-free environment, daily pack walks, and structured socialization. ### How to Choose a Dog Daycare Selection criteria and red flags. 10-point checklist: thorough intake process, structured intro day, active energy management, structured socialization, kennel-free environment, enforced vaccinations, Pet First Aid-certified staff, structured daily schedule with rest, transparent answers, free/low-cost trial day. ### Is Dog Daycare Good for Dogs? Benefits: socialization, exercise, mental stimulation, reduced anxiety. Risks: minor injury, illness spread (mitigated by vaccination requirements). Best for young, high-energy, or social dogs. ### Dog Daycare vs Boarding When to use each option. Daycare for daily socialization and exercise while you work. Boarding for overnight stays while you travel. ### Preparing Your Dog for Daycare First-day preparation guide: vaccinations, arrival time, what to bring, what to expect. ### Dog Vaccination Requirements Calgary Core vaccines: DHPP and Rabies. Recommended: Bordetella (required for group settings), Leptospirosis (elevated to core in 2024), Lyme disease, Canine Influenza. Puppy schedule from 6-8 weeks through 12-16 months. PAWS requires current DHPP, Rabies, and Bordetella. ### Separation Anxiety in Dogs Separation anxiety vs. boredom: key diagnostic differences. Signs include barking, destructive behavior at exits, house soiling, escape attempts. Treatment: desensitization, counter-conditioning, exercise, routine. Daycare supports mild anxiety but is not a cure. ### Dog Socialization Guide Critical window: 3-14 weeks. Two fear imprint periods: 8-11 weeks and 6-14 months. AVSAB recommends starting socialization before full vaccination series. Key distinction between socialization (gradual) and flooding (overwhelming). PAWS approach: one new dog per day, gradual pack integration. ### Calgary Dog Bylaws (2026) All dogs licensed by 3 months. Fees: $45 (spayed/neutered), $71 (unaltered). Leash required at all times except designated off-leash areas. Max 2m on pathways. Maximum 6 dogs per person off-leash. Nuisance designation: $125/year. Vicious designation: $315/year. ### Calgary Off-Leash Dog Parks 160+ designated off-leash areas covering 1,145 hectares (13% of City parkland). Top picks: Nose Hill (NW), Tom Campbell's Hill (NE), Edworthy Park (SW), Sue Higgins Park (SE, largest at 62 ha). Max 6 off-leash dogs per person. Always check City of Calgary off-leash map. ### Calgary Emergency Vet Clinics Five 24-hour facilities: VCA Western (SW), VCA CARE Centre (SE), Fish Creek 24 Hour (SE), Alpine 24/7 (SW), Paramount 24HR (NW). Emergency signs requiring immediate visit: difficulty breathing, collapse, bloated abdomen, seizures, poisoning, uncontrolled bleeding. ### Winter Dog Safety Calgary Calgary winter: daytime 0C avg, lows -13C, ~22 days below -20C, 30-35 chinook days/year. Temperature guidelines by dog size/coat. Frostbite risk within minutes below -30C. Paw protection essential — road salt causes burns and toxicity. PAWS walks every day, adjusting for conditions. ### Dog Grooming Guide Calgary Six coat types with grooming frequency: short (8-12 weeks), double (deshed 2-3x/year), long (every 6-8 weeks), curly/Doodles (every 4-6 weeks), wire (6-8 weeks), wavy/silky (6-8 weeks). Never shave double-coated breeds. ### Travelling with Your Dog from Calgary Flying from YYC: small dogs in-cabin $50-59 CAD. Road trips: Banff 90 min, Canmore 80 min, Kananaskis 1 hr. US border requirements: microchip, rabies certificate, CDC Dog Import Form. Dog-friendly destinations: Banff (leash required), Canmore (has off-leash parks), Kananaskis. --- ## Referral Program Refer a friend to PAWS and earn $20 daycare credit for every successful referral. Their first intro day is always free. No limit on referrals. --- ## Careers Now hiring full-time Pack Leaders. $15-$17/hr in Calgary. Must be comfortable handling all breeds, able to conduct multiple 45-60 min daily pack walks. Previous daycare experience a plus but not required. Email jobs@pawsdogdaycare.ca with resume and cover letter. --- ## Calgary Neighbourhood Pages PAWS serves all Calgary communities from 1313 16 Ave SW: - **Downtown Calgary** (5 min): Perfect for condo dogs without yards. Drop off on the way to the office, pick up on the way home. - **SW Calgary / Sunalta** (3-5 min): Serves Sunalta, Bankview, Marda Loop, Killarney, Rosscarrock, Glendale, Lakeview, Signal Hill. - **NW Calgary** (5-12 min): Serves Kensington, Hillhurst, Parkdale, Banff Trail, University District, Varsity. Quick Bow River bridge crossings. - **Beltline** (2 min drive / 12-15 min walk): Ultra-close for Calgary's most dog-dense neighbourhood. Many clients walk dogs directly to facility. - **Mission** (5-7 min): Bikeable via Elbow River pathway. Community-oriented positioning matching Mission's active lifestyle. - **Kensington** (5 min): Dog-friendly community, 5-minute bridge crossing via 10 St NW or Peace Bridge. - **Hillhurst** (5 min): Closest NW inner-city neighbourhood. Single bridge crossing via 10 St NW. - **Marda Loop** (7 min): Via Crowchild Trail or 14 St SW. Pack walks explore River Park, Sandy Beach, Elbow River pathways. --- *This content is maintained by PAWS Dog Daycare Calgary. For the most current information, visit [pawsdogdaycare.ca](https://www.pawsdogdaycare.ca).*