Keeping Our Play Yards Fun & Safe for Everyone!

At Camp Bow Wow®, our top priority is creating a safe and happy environment for every pup that walks through our doors. We know you trust us with your family members, and we take that responsibility seriously. It’s why we have certain policies in place, including our requirement that all dogs over seven months of age must be spayed or neutered to come to Camp.

We understand that spaying or neutering is a personal decision for every pet owner and there are many factors that go into that choice. Our policy is based on a safety standard we have set to ensure every pup has a positive experience at Camp. We know that every dog’s needs are unique and we encourage pet parents to consult with their vet to make the best choice for their pup.

Dogs who are unaltered (both male and female) naturally have higher and more variable hormone levels. These hormones can sometimes influence how dogs feel and interact with others, even when they’re friendly and well-mannered. In a group setting, these hormonal shifts can contribute to fluctuating behaviors or create tension and stress among other dogs.Sometimes, unaltered dogs may be perceived differently by their playmates, which can make them the target of extra attention, following, or posturing. This can be stressful for the unaltered dog as well as for others in the group. When stress builds, dogs are more likely to become defensive or reactive, which is what we work hard to prevent.

Additionally, if an unspayed female comes into or near her heat cycle, it can cause significant excitement and competition among nearby males, often disrupting the group’s calm, social balance.

Safe and happy play depends on predictable, comfortable interactions between dogs. Even with our skilled Camp Counselors™ monitoring every group, hormones can naturally change how dogs respond to one another. By requiring spay or neuter after seven months, we help keep playgroups consistent and fun for everyone.