DOGGY DAY CAMP

MADISON

Hey there, fellow dog lover! Got a furry friend who’s itching for some new adventures?

Well, look no further than our Doggy Day Camp (DDC) in Madison!

It's the ultimate doggy destination where your medium or big pup (30 lbs. and up) can have a super fun time!

Picture this: your dog spending the day surrounded by new pals, playing in the fresh air, and soaking up the sunshine. At our camp, it's all about fun in a safe and supervised environment.

We've got tons of toys, agility gear, and even pools for those hot summer days. And don't worry about the weather – our indoor area is equipped with AC and heat, plus cozy blankets for those post-playtime naps.

But wait, there's more! By enrolling your pup in Doggy Day Camp, you're not just treating them to a day of fun – you're also helping support animals in need at our shelter. It's a win-win!

Here’s what some of our camp parents have to say!

“For our dog Major, DDC has been a positive game changer in so many ways!  Not only have we seen some much-needed weight loss due to increased activity but his interactions with other dogs have improved dramatically during walks.  In addition, the staff is wonderful and the APP so easy to use.  We are thrilled to have DDC be part of our life!!” - Bert A.

“My dog, Cassidy, has been attending DDC one day a week for the past 5 years — ever since she was 6 months old. She loves attending DDC and, thankfully, loves coming home with me. She’s been well taken care of and gets as much stimulation as she wants.” -Kathleen L.

“I can’t think of many things that Guinness loves more than DDC. On days he has camp, he follows me around the house waiting for me to mention the word ‘camp’ or for a sign he is going to camp (getting his food ready or reaching for his camp collar). Guiness is very important to us and we live that camp makes him so happy. We also like that he gets to socialize with other dogs and comes home dog tired (pardon the pun).” -George T.

Ready to sign up?

Just make sure your dog meets our requirements:

  1. 30 lbs or heavier.

  2. At least six months old.

  3. Up to date on vaccinations like Distemper, Rabies, Bordetella, and Leptospirosis (proof required).

  4. Up to date on flea and tick prevention.

  5. They're spayed or neutered.

And for the best camp experience:

  1. Collars are a must – but leave those prong collars, chains, and flea/tick collars at home.

  2. Give us a heads up about any physical conditions, disabilities, or allergies that might affect your dog's playtime.

  3. No sick pups or those showing aggressive behavior toward humans or other dogs are allowed.

Still have questions? Check out our FAQs or contact us. We're so excited to meet you and your furry BFF – let the adventures begin!

Hours and Pricing


BUSINESS HOURS

Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm

services and pricing

Don’t forget, all tuition goes right back into our programs and shelter animals at St. Huberts!

Full Day: Any time between 7:30am - 6:00 pm| $50

Mid-Day: Any time between 8:00 am - 4:00 pm| $45

Half-Day AM: Any time between 8:00 am - 12:00 pm| $35

Half-Day PM: Any time between 2:00pm - 6:00pm| $35

*If you have multiple dogs, the rate per dog is $45 for Full Day, $40.50 for Midday and $31.50 for Half-Day AM and PM.

**There is a crated nap time from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm for Full Day and Mid-Day services.

Contact Us

Doggy Day Camp can be found directly to your right when you pull into St. Hubert’s driveway. You will see our field and Doggy Day Camp Cabin.

LOCATION: 575 Woodland Avenue, Madison, NJ 07940

PHONE: 973-524-9098

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

SEND US AN EMAIL and we’ll get right back to you! DDC@sthuberts.org 

Enroll your dog today!

If Doggy Day Camp sounds like fun for your dog(s), and they meet the participation criteria, please complete the application.

After submitting an application, DDC Staff will contact you to set up a date and time for a meet-and-greet. There will be a $15 cash donation for the meet-and-greet, which goes towards toys and equipment for the dogs.

Thank you for considering DDC in Madison, and we hope to see you soon!

FAQ

What is the daily Doggy Day Camp schedule?

DROP-OFF (7:30AM, 8AM OR 2PM): The Doggy Day Camp Cabin is located near the end of the St. Hubert’s driveway on the right-hand side. When dropping off your dog, ring the doorbell and wait for a staff member to receive you. For safety reasons please do not enter the door or gate labeled “Staff Only”.

PLAYTIME (7:30AM-12PM): Your dog will enjoy supervised playtime with their doggy friends from the moment they arrive. We have a large variety of toys, agility equipment, and pools during the summer for them to play with. While Doggy Day Camp is mostly outdoors, the dogs also have the freedom to go in and out of the cabin, which has air-conditioning and heat.

LUNCH BREAK/NAP TIME (12PM-2PM): If your dog is attending our mid-day or full-day sessions, they will take a break from 12 pm - 2 pm. During the break, they will be crated with fresh water and a lunchtime treat. You are welcome to bring your own labeled food or treats for your dog. In the foyer of the Cabin, there is a set of cubbies where you can drop off any food or treats you would like us to give to your dog.

PLAYTIME (2PM-6PM): After their much-deserved break your dog will resume play with their canine pals until pick-up.

PICK-UP (12PM, 4PM OR 6PM): For noon pick-ups for half-day AM sessions, we often send the dogs out through the “catch pen” gated area. For pick-ups after 2PM, ring the Cabin’s doorbell and your dog will be handed to you at the door. Late fees will be assessed for late pickups.

How do I schedule a camp session?

Reservations for camp are scheduled through our app Paw Partner. After a successful meet and greet the manager will show you how to book them on your phone or computer. We prefer clients to book out a month in advance and send reminders in the middle of each month. But you are free to book last minute as well—with the understanding we may not have enough space. You may book services at any time and will get a confirmation or denial if there is space for your pup.

If you need to change, cancel, or add a session please let us know in as soon as you can. We only take a limited number of dogs each day, and for this reason, we require 24 hours’ notice for a cancellation. If you cancel in less than 24 hours or do not show up to your appointment, you will be charged in full. Requests to change your dog’s appointment type may also be made on the app if you decide you’d rather they do a Mid-Day instead of half or so on.

Do you offer drop-ins?

We do NOT offer drop-ins. All dogs must provide vaccines, complete a meet-and-greet and book reservations on Paw Partner prior to attending camp. However, if your dog is already an approved camper you can request a reservation on Paw Partner the same day. We just ask you wait for confirmation of that appointment before showing up!

How often should my dog come to camp?

This depends on the dog’s age, personality, and energy level. We prefer our campers come at least one day a week on a regular schedule, though we do allow clients to come on a more sporadic as-needed basis. Together, we can help you build a camp schedule that will provide your dog with appropriate exercise and stimulation, while making sure that they are comfortable and happy.

Do I have to bring my dog the same day of the week, every week?

No. We have some campers that come on a regular schedule the same days of the week, as well as those who come sporadically on different and with various service types, or just a few times a year.

How many dogs are in the camp?

We never have more than 30 dogs at camp at the same time, but we have about three times as many clients who come on different schedules.

How many staff members do you have watching the dogs?

We are proud to say we have a 1:10 handler to dog ratio. This is significantly lower and safer than most daycares who will often have one handler with 20, 30 or even 40 dogs at a time.

What methods of payment are accepted?

Our preferred method of payment is by credit cards that are uploaded to your Paw Partner account. You will be charged with the click of a button every time you pick up your dog. We also accept cash or checks. Please make checks payable to St. Hubert’s Doggy Day Camp. Checks and cash can be deposited in the cash box located in the foyer of the Doggy Day Camp Cabin.

Can I drop off/pick up my dog from Doggy Day Camp whenever I want?

Dogs can be dropped off picked up anytime during their scheduled session’s hours except for during their break period from 12 pm - 2 pm. If there is a specific instance where you need to pick up or drop off your dog between 12 pm - 2 pm, just let us know and we will try to accommodate accordingly.

Where does my dog go when it rains/snows?

While many of us humans don’t particularly enjoy the rain or snow, dogs tend to not mind or even love it. Many of them will play in the elements and are free to go in and out of our air-conditioned/heated Cabin to seek shelter as they please. In cases of extreme cold, heat, or dangerous storms, Doggy Day Camp may close for the day. If this is the case, we will send you an email the night prior to let you know. If there is a thunderstorm, the dogs are taken indoors until 20 minutes after the last thunderclap. If your dog has a particular aversion to rain/snow/thunder and you would like to keep them home, we advise you keep an eye on the weather so you can cancel with more than 24 hours’ notice.

Why do the dogs take a break from 12 pm - 2 pm?

Just like kids, dogs need to take a break after running and playing all day. After an especially playful morning we often find our dogs napping before we even ask them to! Each dog has their own crate and blanket to rest in during this time. They also have a fresh bucket of water and get a yummy treat to snack on. If you would like to bring your own food or snack for your dog, feel free!

What is a meet-and-greet?

Meet-and-greets happen after you fill out your Doggy Day Camp application. They are how we observe how your dog interacts with the other campers and the staff. Depending on the dog, they typically last around 30 minutes. If your dog shows any very concerning behaviors that may put them or the other dogs at risk, we will remove them sooner and call you to pick them up.

Are there shelter dogs at camp?

No. While we have many St Hubert’s alumni at the DDC, only owned dogs are accepted into camp.

Do you have any breed restrictions?

No. As long as a dog is 30 lbs. or over, they will be evaluated as an individual, not as a member of a breed.

Can my dog with special needs participate?

For their own safety, we cannot accept any dogs with seizure disorders, diabetes, and severe cardiac or orthopedic issues. If your dog is a Heartworm survivor, we are willing to accept them two months post-final treatment with a note from their veterinarian approving them as a camper. If your dog has recently had pneumonia or a severe respiratory infection, they will also only be accepted 4-6 weeks post-treatment with an approval note from their veterinarian. Admittance of dogs with any other special needs is evaluated on a case-to-case basis.

Do you allow intact dogs if they are under one year old?

No. All dogs who are old enough (6 months) to attend camp must be neutered. If you choose to delay your dog’s neuter, we respect your decision and encourage you to apply for camp once the procedure is complete.

Why did my dog not “pass” the Meet-and-Greet?

If your dog does not “pass” the Meet-and-Greet, it does not mean that they are a “bad dog”. It simply means that Doggy Day Camp is not the right environment for them. Just like some people may not like wild parties and prefer to stay home with a book or familiar friend, many dogs prefer to be home alone or just with one familiar dog for company. Being around many dogs at once is not an ideal environment for every dog. For some it can be extremely overwhelming which can lead to stress, hyperarousal, aggression, or emotionally shutting down. It’s not always a question of behavior, but also personality. If they aren’t a good fit for camp, your dog may prefer private playtime with you or a few friends in our SniffSpot (link) or a training class (link) instead. As an animal welfare organization, we care about your dog’s happiness more than anything. If we see that your dog is not adjusting appropriately or enjoying themselves, we will let you know.

Do you offer discounts for multiple dogs?

Yes. If you send more than one dog to camp you will receive a 10% discount on each service they attend together.

My friend/relative’s dog is visiting. Can they come to camp with my dog?

As long as you complete the full on-boarding process with the “guest” dog (application, proof of vaccines, and passing the meet and greet) they are welcome to come to camp during their visits.

Why don’t you allow dogs under 30 lbs.?

With our current set-up and building restrictions, we are only able to have one space for the dogs. For their safety, we cannot allow small dogs under 30 lbs. to mix with the larger ones. If you have a small dog and want to attend camp, we would love for you to apply to our all-size sister camp in Branchburg.

Are you open on weekends? Do you do overnight boarding?

No. We are only open Monday thru Friday from 7:30 am to 6 pm.

Do you offer discounts for multiple dogs?

Yes. If you send more than one dog to camp, you will receive a 10% discount on each service they attend together.

My friend/relative’s dog is visiting. Can they come to camp with my dog?

As long as you complete the full onboarding process with the "guest" dog (application, proof of vaccines, and passing the meet and greet), they are welcome to come to camp during their visits.

Why don’t you allow dogs under 30 lbs.?

With our current setup and building restrictions, we are only able to have one space for the dogs. For their safety, we cannot allow small dogs under 30 lbs. to mix with the larger ones. If you have a small dog that you want to attend camp, we would love for you to apply to our all-size sister camp in Branchburg.

Are you open on weekends? Do you do overnight boarding?

No. We are only open Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6 PM.

Happy Campers Maggie and Tess!