Percepção dos clientes e avaliação do bem-estar em creches para cães

The pet sector has been growing in recent years, driven by the increasing recognition of pets as family members. As a result, the demand for services that promote animal well-being, such as pet daycares, has increased. This study evaluated pet owners’ perceptions of these daycares in Montes Claros, Minas Gerais (Brazil), using an online questionnaire. Most respondents were young adults, and their dogs, of various sizes, attended daycare one to three times a week. The main criteria for choosing a facility were structure, safety, and animal well-being. Owners reported improvements in their dogs’ behavior, highlighting the importance of recreational activities, socialization, and environmental enrichment. However, they also pointed out challenges, such as the lack of professional training among staff and limited environmental enrichment offerings. These findings suggest the need for more effective communication between daycare centers and pet owners. In conclusion, dog daycares play a significant role in promoting the physical and emotional well-being of pets and supporting owners’ routines. However, there is still a need to improve staff qualifications and raise awareness on animal welfare to ensure continuous service improvement.