New Clients With Dog Concern

[Pestle]

Licensing in my state doesn't permit dogs OR cats in the day care area. So when I get my next inspection before I'm licensed, I'm going to have to shut the cats up in the bedroom--how do you keep a cat on one side of a gate? ::

[laundrymom]

"It sounds like no answer I have will work for your needs. I wish you the best luck in finding a provider. "

[Blackcat31]

how do you keep a cat on one side of a gate? ::

by putting them on the opposite side of where you want them. ::

I have cats. Two. I've learned a long time ago it has to be THEIR idea.... I try unsuccessfully to get my female cat to come inside some times... I see her walking up the sidewalk towards the door and think "Oh, she wants to come inside." So I open the door. The minute I open the door, she turns and walks around the house to the back door and waits to get let in as if we were all ignoring her.

So the only way I've ever figured out to get a cat to do anything you want them to is to "expect" X and you'll get Y.

[Pestle]

I was all, "I have two cats but they're never in here," and they came howling into the room and tried to climb into her lap.

[Pepperth]

One of my clients had a similar concern when her child first started. I explained the dogs routine and left it in their court. They've turned into wonderful clients and haven't had any concerns since starting (that I know of.).

[Josiegirl]

Lots of good advice already. You just need to do what's comfortable for you as will the potential client. But my dogs are part of my daycare family. They all love each other. I do put my dogs in a bedroom when adults are here, simply because 1 of them is a jumper. I understand the liability of integrating dogs and shudder to think what could happen. BUT I also see the value of the kids being around animals, learning to take care of them, being gentle with them, and being part of their day here. Worst thing my dogs have ever done is chew up toys/books/puzzles/blocks, etc.
I am not stupid about it but do allow the kids and dogs to be together. I would not change a thing as to how you do things. And if dcf decides to come, definitely use your 6th sense during trial period to detect any possible issues. Did the family get to meet the dog and interact with it at all? Maybe that would help with the mom's fears.

[childcaremom]

I was all, "I have two cats but they're never in here," and they came howling into the room and tried to climb into her lap.

::

This is my cats. Never come out during daycare hours but an interview in progress.... they are right there. I always tell clients that they are not part of the program for the cats' protection. That's when they usually make their appearance. ::


As far as OP, I wouldn't sign them on. If they are afraid of dogs, nothing will reassure them and they should be looking for care where they are completely comfortable. In this case, I would suggest that they look for a dog-free home.