FAQs

  • Dog(gy) day care at The Country Mutt is a safe, supervised environment where dogs can play, socialise, rest and enjoy plenty of attention during the day.

    Set in the Wiltshire countryside, we focus on happy, well-balanced dogs - not overcrowded chaos!

  • Most dogs love day care, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. We consider age, temperament, energy levels and social confidence. Some dogs thrive in play, others enjoy quieter companionship - so we tailor the day accordingly.

    If you’re unsure, we’re always happy to chat it through. Contact us here.

  • Absolutely! We strongly believe in gradual settling-in, especially for new dogs. Initial visits help us understand your dog’s personality and ensure they’re comfortable and happy before attending regularly.

    You can book your dog in for a trial day, once we’ve indicated that’s suitable, following a completed enquiry form.

  • Dogs are supervised at all times by experienced, DBS-checked handlers trained in dog first aid and behaviour awareness. We carefully manage group sizes - in maximum group sizes of 8 per handler - and match dogs thoughtfully to keep play safe and positive.

  • We group dogs by temperament and play style rather than size alone. This helps ensure calmer dogs aren’t overwhelmed and more energetic dogs have appropriate outlets.

    We also make sure to have plenty of areas to separate dogs, so they can enjoy the day at their own pace - however they’re feeling on the day.

  • Rest is a really important part of the day - it’s most unnatural for dogs to be at constant play, and overstimulation is something we try to avoid at all costs. We provide calm indoor areas where dogs can relax, nap or enjoy some quiet time away from play.

  • We’re based just outside Chippenham in Draycot Cerne, near Junction 17 of the M4, in the Wiltshire countryside. Full directions can be provided once a visit or booking is arranged.

  • Opening hours vary depending on service and collection routes.

    Collection by our vans typically takes place between 08:00–10:00, with drop-off available by arrangement. Pick-up and delivery usually runs from 16:00–17:30.

    We’ll always confirm timings clearly with you.

  • Yes - all bookings are required in advance via our Client Portal - so we can manage numbers safely and ensure the best experience for every dog.

  • Yes - this one of The Country Mutt’s major benefits for clients! We offer a collection and delivery service in selected local areas, making daycare even easier for busy households.

    More on this service can be found here.

  • Absolutely. All our vans have been fitted with safety in mind for dogs.  Every van is fitted with comfortable, cushioned sections and large enough to reduce anxiety and cater for all sizes of pooch!  We want them to feel secure and not anxious.

    Our drivers all hold full UK driving licenses and are fully insured by Chippenham Animal Care Ltd (t/a The Country Mutt).  All our lovely dog handlers take great care on the roads knowing they have precious cargo on board.

  • Of course! Self drop-off and pick-up is always welcome if that works better for you. We simply ask that you help us by working around our Collection and Drop-Off times.

    For Morning Drop-Off, you can deliver your dog to our site after 0800.

    Afternoon Collections from daycare must be before 1730.

    * Our vans leave the site for Home Drop-Offs at 1600 prompt - so we have limited availability for on-site collection. A late collection fee of £5 per 10 minutes will be applied.

  • Our pricing depends on how many days per week your dog attends. Discounts are available for multiple days and for dogs from the same household.

    Full pricing can be found on our Services page.

  • Yes - many of our clients book regular weekly slots. This helps create routine for your dog and ensures availability.

  • Yes. All dogs must be fully vaccinated and up to date before attending. This helps keep every dog in our care safe and healthy.

  • Please let us know - whether it’s medical, behavioural or dietary. We’ll always be honest about what we can support and will only take dogs we’re confident we can care for properly.

  • Simply get in touch via our contact form or send us an email.

    We’ll talk through your dog’s needs, explain how everything works, and arrange next steps if we’re a good fit.

  • Yes, absolutely! Walk-round visits are by appointment only; so we can give you our full attention and show you around properly.

    You can book an initial walk-round visit here.

  • Because we care deeply about getting it right. We take time to know every dog, communicate openly with owners, and always put wellbeing first. If something isn’t working, we’ll talk to you - honestly and kindly.

    Happy dogs, relaxed owners. That’s the goal.