How to choose a dog daycare in Beverly, MA
How to choose a dog daycare in Beverly, MA
Finding the right dog daycare is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your four-legged family member. With a growing number of options across the North Shore, it can be hard to know where to start. After more than 20 years caring for dogs in Beverly, MA, we've seen what makes a great daycare — and what to watch out for.
1. Visit before you commit
Any reputable dog daycare should welcome a visit before your dog's first day. At Bone-Anza Doggie Day Care, we always offer a free in-home meet and greet for local families — so we can learn about your dog's personality, energy levels, and social needs before they arrive. If a facility won't let you visit or meet the staff, that's a red flag.
2. Check the space
Size matters — your dog needs room to move, play, and rest comfortably. Bone-Anza has 3,300 square feet of temperature-controlled indoor space in the heart of Beverly. Ask any daycare how many dogs they take at once and whether the space feels calm or chaotic. A crowded, noisy environment isn't relaxing for most dogs.
3. Ask about outdoor time
Dogs need fresh air and exercise — not just indoor play. At Bone-Anza, every dog goes on at least two guided neighbourhood walks every day. Unlike some facilities that rely on indoor bathroom habits (a habit that can be very hard to break!), we always take dogs outside when nature calls. Ask your prospective daycare how often dogs go outside and whether walks are supervised.
4. Look for experienced, attentive staff
The quality of a dog daycare comes down to the people running it. Owner Joe Bellanti has over 20 years of experience in animal care and is on the floor with the dogs every day — this isn't a drop-off facility where dogs are left to their own devices. Ask about staff-to-dog ratios and whether the owner is hands-on.
5. Find out how they handle special needs
Does your dog need medication during the day? A senior dog who needs extra rest? A puppy who needs extra supervision? A good daycare should accommodate these needs without extra charges. At Bone-Anza, medication, feeding, and extra care are all included at no additional cost.
6. Check reviews — and ask for references
Word of mouth is everything in the dog daycare world. Check Google reviews, ask your vet, and talk to other dog owners in Beverly and Danvers. Bone-Anza has been trusted by North Shore families for over two decades — many of our dogs have been coming since they were puppies.
Ready to find out if Bone-Anza is right for your dog?
Give Joe a call at (978) 314-3753 or email joe@boneanzadoggiedaycare.com. We serve families across Beverly, Danvers, and the wider North Shore of Massachusetts — and we'd love to meet your dog.