This was our second time using the Escondido location, and it confirmed that this facility is not…read moreequipped or operated to responsibly manage large or anxious dogs, despite advertising itself as a professional daycare.
During our first experience in May 2024 (boarding), our dog, Chika, was labeled anxious and given a "first strike" for snapping at other dogs. We had never received this sort of feedback before and were concerned. She was placed in private care for the remainder of that stay, and no further issues occurred.
Between May 2024 and December 2025, Chika attended numerous daycare facilities in social play without incident.
We gave the Escondido location another opportunity on December 20, 2025. Within three hours, we received a voicemail from Daniel (manager) stating that Chika was digging at and jumping on the walls and that the Escondido facility's walls are not as sturdy as those at the Miramar location. We were also told that she would NOT be welcome back at Escondido after that day.
We do not dispute Chika's behavior, but the problem was the lack of management. We are paying customers and expect staff to actively handle the situation, not simply report it and escalate to removal or ban. There was no indication that reasonable steps were taken (removal from the area, breaks, walks, or calming measures) before contacting us. Notifying the customer is appropriate and appreciated; failing to attempt resolution is not.
Chika was eventually placed in a cage for the remainder of the day, which was acceptable. However, communication did not indicate that efforts were made to reduce her stress or ensure her comfort.
We paid $60 per dog (two dogs; our other dog's behavior was deemed acceptable) and expected professional supervision and care.
There are serious safety and operational concerns. The facility has thin, easily damaged walls, is understaffed (per the manager and owner), and staff are not consistently present in dog areas. Dogs are sometimes monitored via cameras rather than in-person supervision, according to Daniel (manager). This location also maintains a low number of dogs, which aligns with how quickly dogs are removed or banned instead of being managed. According to the daycare, Chika may react this way because calmer areas stress her and busier areas keep her mind occupied--interpret that as you will.
Interactions with Daniel (manager) and Brian (owner) were unacceptable. Brian called us on December 21st, which we initially appreciated as a chance to discuss the situation. However, the conversation quickly became hostile and dismissive, with Brian stating they "could bill you for the damage, but aren't," telling me to "take some introspection," and calling me "rude" and "ridiculous for asking for a refund." He also said, "open your own daycare and manage it how you want." All phone calls with management are recorded, so there is a record of these interactions. No accommodation was offered. Had a partial refund been provided, this review would not exist!
The only professional interaction was with Whitney at the front desk.
We love the Miramar location, and it's disappointing that our experience at Escondido came to this. Owners of large or anxious dogs should proceed with caution. This location does not actively manage stressed dogs or work toward resolution.
