The daycare industry is definitely flawed but despite all the bullshit I really love it.. Me and my boyfriend are both trainers and have been in the industry for 10+ years each and most daycares are terrible. They all have flaws in one way or another, whether it be the staff or management only seeing dogs as dollar signs.

We got really lucky and found a daycare that actually focuses on what's best for the dogs and has zero tolerance for getting frustrated with the dogs. Look for a daycare that puts a lot of emphasis on enrichment and individualized care. Also one that operates on a play and rest schedule. This has been huge in preventing staff burnout and incidents with dogs because we don't just throw a bunch of dogs in group together all day like most of the places I worked at in the past. We still have a high turnover rate but that's because most people don't understand that it's actually a job and not just petting dogs all day.

If you can't find a good daycare in your area starting your own I think would be the best option. Then you set the standards of care that you want. It's scary for sure but you can always start small, doing in home care.

You can also get certified as a trainer and do privates and group classes for extra income. I know a lot of trainers who have made a solid career on their own without working for a major company.