What to Expect at Sheba's Doggy Day Camp in South Carolina

Sheba's Doggy Day Camp offers supervised play and care for dogs during business hours

Sheba's Doggy Day Camp is a day program where your dog spends the day in a group setting with trained staff and other dogs, then goes home with you at the end of the day. Unlike overnight boarding, day camp is designed for owners who work, run errands, or need a few hours of structured activity and socialization for their dog. The facility provides play sessions, supervision, and basic care throughout the day.

The camp operates during standard business hours and focuses on keeping dogs active and engaged in a controlled environment. Dogs are grouped by size, age, and temperament to ensure safe interactions. Staff monitor play, manage conflicts, and provide breaks and water throughout the day.

Key Takeaways

• Sheba's Doggy Day Camp is a daytime program where your dog returns home each evening, not an overnight boarding facility.
• Dogs are grouped by size and temperament to ensure safe play and appropriate supervision.
• The facility operates during business hours, typically Monday through Friday, though specific hours vary by location.
• You will need to provide vaccination records, proof of current rabies protection, and information about your dog's behavior and medical needs before the first visit.
• Day camp costs are usually charged per day or as part of a package, and rates depend on your dog's size and the program length you choose.

What Your Dog Does During a Day Camp Visit

A typical day at Sheba's includes supervised group play, individual attention from staff, and scheduled rest periods. Dogs play indoors and outdoors depending on weather and the facility's setup. Play sessions are broken up with water breaks and quiet time to prevent exhaustion and overheating.

Staff watch for signs of stress, injury, or conflict and separate dogs if needed. Some facilities also offer optional add-ons like training sessions, swimming, or grooming services. Your dog will have access to water throughout the day and may be offered treats or meals depending on what you arrange in advance.

What You Need to Bring and Provide

Before your dog's first day, you will need to provide current vaccination records, including proof of rabies protection. Most facilities also require a veterinary health certificate dated within the past year. You should bring your dog's regular food if you want them fed during the day, or let staff know if they should provide their own.

Bring any medications your dog takes, clearly labeled with your dog's name and dosage instructions. Include emergency contact information, your veterinarian's phone number, and details about your dog's behavior—whether they are nervous around other dogs, have any aggression triggers, or need special handling. Some facilities ask you to fill out a behavior form so staff know how to work with your dog safely.

Hours, Location, and How to Register

Sheba's Doggy Day Camp operates during business hours, typically Monday through Friday. Hours and exact location depend on which Sheba's facility serves your area—South Carolina has multiple locations. Contact the facility nearest you directly to confirm their specific hours, whether they offer weekend or holiday hours, and how far in advance you need to book.

Registration usually involves a phone call or online form where you provide your dog's name, age, breed, and health information. Many facilities ask you to bring your dog in for a brief meet-and-greet before the first full day so staff can assess temperament and your dog can see the space. Ask about their cancellation policy and whether they offer trial days or introductory rates.

Cost and Payment Options

Day camp fees are typically charged per day, with rates varying by your dog's size and the facility's location. Larger dogs may cost more than smaller ones. Many facilities offer discounts for multiple days per week or monthly packages. Some also offer drop-in rates for single visits and reduced rates for regular customers.

Ask whether the facility accepts credit cards, checks, or automatic payments, and whether they require payment in advance or at pickup. Some offer trial days at a reduced rate so you can see if day camp is a good fit before committing to regular visits. Confirm what is included in the base price and what costs extra—grooming, training, or special meals may be add-ons.

Safety and Health Policies

Reputable day camps require vaccination records and health certificates to protect all dogs in the facility. Staff should be trained in dog behavior and first aid. Ask about their sick dog policy—most will not accept dogs showing signs of illness like coughing, diarrhea, or fever, and they should have a clear protocol for what happens if a dog becomes ill during the day.

Inquire about their injury and conflict response. How do they handle disagreements between dogs? Do they separate dogs immediately, or do they let them work it out? What happens if your dog is injured? A good facility will have a veterinarian on call or nearby and will contact you right away if anything serious occurs. Ask for references from other dog owners who use the facility.

Is Day Camp Right for Your Dog?

Day camp works well for dogs that enjoy socializing with other dogs and need mental stimulation or exercise during the day. It is especially useful if you work full-time and want your dog to have company and activity rather than spending eight hours alone. Dogs with separation anxiety often benefit from the social environment.

Day camp may not be ideal for dogs with severe aggression toward other dogs, very old or very young puppies, dogs with serious health conditions, or dogs that are extremely anxious around strangers. Some dogs simply prefer one-on-one attention or a quieter environment. Talk to your veterinarian or a trainer if you are unsure whether your dog would do well in a group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my dog has never been to day camp before?

Most facilities offer a trial day or a shorter first visit so your dog can adjust gradually. Bring your dog in for a tour and meet-and-greet before committing to a full day. Start with one or two days per week rather than five, and give your dog time to settle into the routine.

Can I pick my dog up early if they seem upset?

Yes, you can usually pick up your dog anytime during business hours. However, staff often recommend giving your dog at least a few visits to adjust before pulling them out early, as some anxiety on the first day is normal. Ask the facility about their policy on early pickup and whether there are additional fees.

What happens if my dog gets injured at day camp?

The facility should contact you immediately if your dog is injured. Ask about their liability policy and whether they cover veterinary costs for injuries that occur during camp. Get this in writing before your dog's first day so you know what to expect.

Do I need to provide my dog's food, or does the facility feed them?

This varies by facility. Some ask you to bring your dog's regular food, others provide meals, and some offer both options. Confirm the feeding policy when you register and ask whether they can accommodate special diets or food allergies.

How often should my dog attend day camp?

That depends on your dog's age, energy level, and social needs. Some dogs do well going once or twice a week, while others benefit from more frequent visits. Ask staff for their recommendation based on your dog's behavior and temperament during the first few visits.