Yes! In fact, we prefer that you do—especially if you're planning to book group daycare. A visit gives your pup the chance to familiarize themselves with the environment, take in the smells, and even meet our dogs before their first official day. This helps make their first drop-off much smoother and more relaxed. Before arranging a daycare visit, we ask that you first enrol your dog. This helps us get to know them better before they arrive, ensuring we can make their introduction to group play as comfortable as possible. We also require that your dog remains on a lead while in the car park and is only let off once we are fully inside the daycare. To arrange a visit, please contact us via email. We look forward to meeting you both! Alternatively, you’re welcome to book a solo session (our private dog park) and we can meet you during that time. It’s the perfect way to explore the space with your dog at your own pace—while also giving us the chance to meet you, show you around, and have a quick chat in person. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure option that ticks off both the introduction and a fun visit in one go.

Your dog's day at Whinnleys will begin when you drop them off at our the daycare between the allocated drop of times. Once they arrive, your pup will be guided out to the paddock where the fun and games begin. Depending on their personality, their day may include swimming in the dam, playing with sticks and chasing tennis balls, chasing other dogs, or going on a sniffing adventure. After the excitement of the morning, they may choose to take a midday nap under our shelters or trees. If your dog is anything like ours, they'll get a second wind after an hour's rest and go right back to exploring and playing, until 3-5pm, when it is time for you to collect them from daycare. Once home, you can count on them sleeping soundly!

The cost for group daycare is $70. Solo Sessions (Private Dog Park) is $35/hour

Yes of course! This is currently our only option. Drop off: 7am - 9am Pick up: 3pm - 6pm

Group Daycare – Multi-Dog Discount Yes! We understand this is a luxury, and just because one dog can go, the other shouldn't have to miss out! You’ll receive 25% off each additional dog added to a group daycare booking, as long as all dogs are from the same household. Please note: This discount is only for dogs from the same household—no carpooling with friends! When adding an additional dog to your booking, we’ll require proof of registration or ownership to apply the discount. This helps keep things fair while still offering an affordable way for all your pups to enjoy the day together. Solo Sessions – Bring All Your Dogs For solo sessions (our private dog park), you’re welcome to bring as many of your own dogs as you like—no extra fees apply! It’s your time, your space. Please remember: All dogs must still be vaccinated (C5). Dogs must be from the same household, and we’ll require proof of ownership if bringing multiple. It’s a great way to give all your pups some off-leash fun together—especially if they’re not suited to group play.

Breed Safety Policy (Applies to Daycare Only) Due to requirements set by our public liability insurance provider, Whinnleys Rural Dog Daycare is unable to accept certain dog breeds deemed high-risk under our policy. The following policy applies only to dogs attending group daycare sessions at Whinnleys. Breed restrictions do not apply to dogs booked into our Solo Dog Park sessions, where no other dogs or staff are present, and you retain full responsibility for your own dog(s). This includes (but is not limited to): Staffordshire Bull Terrier Greyhound American Staffordshire Terrier Bull Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier Dingo Dogo Argentino Perro de Presa Canario Cane Corso Japanese Tosa Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) Rottweiler Boerboel Dogue de Bordeaux Bullmastiff Neapolitan Mastiff Akita Shar Pei Chow Chow Belgian Malinois Kangal / Anatolian Shepherd Giant Schnauzer These restrictions apply to purebred dogs, as well as mixed breeds that involve restricted breeds. In cases where a dog is a cross between two restricted breeds (e.g., Staffy x Pitbull), or where the second breed is unknown or undocumented, the dog will be classified as a "purebred equivalent" for policy purposes. To be considered a true mixed breed and exempt from these restrictions, the second breed must be clearly identified and documented, such as appearing on a veterinary vaccination certificate. Even in cases where exemption applies, dogs will still be assessed on a case-by-case basis for temperament, play style, and physical suitability for group care. This policy is not a reflection on any individual dog or owner—it is simply a requirement we must follow to maintain insurance coverage and operate legally and responsibly. In addition to insurance conditions, we must also consider the practical realities of group play environments. Breeds with extreme muscle mass, high arousal thresholds, and strong bite force can pose a serious safety risk in the unlikely event of aggression. These dogs can be extremely difficult to physically restrain or separate, which increases the potential for injury to other dogs and to staff. This decision has been made with ongoing consultation with our insurer, safety advisors, and local veterinary clinics who understand the risks associated with high-energy group environments. We understand this may be disappointing, especially to those with loving and well-trained companions. This policy was made with careful consideration and in line with industry standards and professional guidance. We’re happy to refer owners to alternative care providers who may offer one-on-one, in-home, or breed-specific services better suited to these dogs’ needs. Alternatively, Whinnleys offers private Solo Dog Park sessions where these breed restrictions do not apply, allowing you to safely enjoy our facility with your dog(s) in a one-on-one setting.

Yes! We believe dogs of all sizes should socialize together.

At the end of the day, the term 'socialising' your dog doesn't just refer to them playing with their doggy mates. It also refers to them being comfortable and co-existing in the same space as them - which in itself can take up alot of energy for a dog! So yes, they will make friends and find those who they have the same play style as, but other who they can lay around and relax with.

GROUP DAYCARE Yes—for group daycare, our general policy requires dogs over 6 months of age to be desexed. However, we currently offer limited options for undesexed dogs: Undesexed males over 6 months are welcome on Thursdays only. Undesexed females over 6 months are welcome on Mondays to Wednesdays. These arrangements allow dogs who are not yet desexed to still enjoy daycare under controlled circumstances. SOLO SESSIONS (PRIVATE DOG PARK) Desexing status is not relevant for solo sessions. As long as your dog is otherwise eligible, they are welcome to enjoy the facility—whether or not they have been desexed. Solo sessions are a great option for dogs who aren’t suited to group play, or who are still entire but want to safely enjoy outdoor freedom. LEGAL NOTE – SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DESEXING LAWS Under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA), it is compulsory in most cases to desex your dog by the age of 6 months, effective from 1 July 2018. Exemptions apply if: Your dog is a registered show or breeding dog, or You have a veterinary certificate granting exemption or delayed desexing for health/developmental reasons.

Group Daycare Conditions Dogs must be at least 16 weeks of age. Must be up to date with C5 vaccinations. Your dog needs to be up to date with flea, worming, and heartworm prevention. This not only keeps your dog safe, but protects other dogs as well. Keeping your dog groomed is also very important. This is an outdoor doggy daycare, which means they may run into a little dust, mud, or the occasional grassy prickle! A simple brush or pat down will do the trick. Your dog must not be aggressive or overly anxious. If you know your dog struggles in these areas, placing them in a group environment could lead to stress or unsafe situations for themselves, other dogs, and staff. Your dog’s mental health is very important to us. Solo Session (Private Park) Conditions Dogs must be at least 16 weeks of age. Must be up to date with C5 vaccinations. Your dog needs to be up to date with flea, worming, and heartworm prevention. Regular grooming is encouraged to keep your dog comfortable while playing outdoors. Reactive or anxious dogs are welcome for solo sessions. In fact, we encourage this option for dogs who aren’t suited to group play. Solo sessions allow them to enjoy the same enriching environment—at their own pace and without the pressure of other dogs around.

26 Timmins Road, Nairne, SA

Whinnleys Rural Dog Daycare – Hot Weather Policy At Whinnleys Rural Dog Daycare, the health and safety of all dogs in our care is our top priority. South Australian summers can bring extreme heat, and we take proactive steps to keep all dogs cool, comfortable, and safe. Temperature Guidelines & Adjustments Up to 30°C – Normal daycare operations with increased hydration and shaded rest areas. 30°C to 35°C – Activities adjusted to reduce strenuous exercise, with extra cool-down breaks and water play. 35°C+ At 1:00 PM (or as soon as the temperature reaches 35°C, whichever comes first), all dogs are moved into our air-conditioned indoor space. Dogs will have scheduled, controlled access to the lagoon for short, supervised play sessions. 37°C+ (Half-Day Schedule) Daycare operates from 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM at a reduced rate of $50. If the temperature reaches 35°C before 12:00 PM, all dogs will be moved into the air-conditioned indoor space immediately. Controlled, scheduled access to the lagoon will continue until 12:00 PM for cooling-off purposes. If an early pickup is not suitable, the booking will be canceled and fully refunded. 40°C+ or Catastrophic Fire Danger Days Daycare will be canceled, and all bookings fully refunded.

No, unfortunately we can't take food to give your dog that day. We recommend having your dog skip breakfast that day, then feeding them a bigger meal afterwards.

No, we currently only provide daycare opportunities for your pooch. If you are unable to pick up your dog on time, please do your best to communicate that early with us. If you are late and we are not informed, we will drop your dog at your residence and there will be a $30 transport fee invoiced.

To enroll your dog, visit our enrollment page and complete the application form, attaching all required documents. We will review your submission and determine if your dog is eligible for our daycare. If approved, we will send you a link to our booking page, allowing you to schedule your dog's visits at your convenience.