Have you ever wondered what life is like for a puppy at PetCenter? It might seem like it’s all fun and games, but caring for these little puppies actually requires a lot of hard work. At PetCenter Old Bridge, our goal is make sure these precious pups receive the best care while they’re at our store. To do that, we employ an entire team of dedicated, expert staff working full-time.

“It’s like being in a room full of children!” said kennel tech Jessica Middleton, who has been part of the PetCenter Old Bridge team since August 2015. Along with the store’s consulting veterinarian, Jessica and her team have the special responsibility of caring for the puppies’ medical and health needs.

Many employees, including Jessica, have unique backgrounds that make them well suited for their jobs. Prior to joining the PetCenter team, Jessica interned at a veterinarian’s office and received on-the-job training on administering medications and vaccines.

Breakfast and Morning Clean-up

Rise and shine! When the kennel team arrives bright and early in the morning, they get straight to work.

First up on the to-do list is serving breakfast. The kennel team works closely with the store’s consulting veterinarian so each puppy receives a nutritionally balanced meal. This ensures the active puppies grow up to be healthy and strong.

After breakfast, the team cleans the kennels top to bottom. Immediately, the staff cleans and disinfects each play and visitation room, making sure no spot is overlooked. The store uses a state-of-the art system designed by a team of animal welfare experts which can be easily deconstructed. They also clean all of the pup’s dishes for a fresh start every morning after breakfast.

Throughout the Day: Routine Checkups

Over the course of each day, the kennel team weighs the puppies and takes their temperatures. The team also gives them medicine, preventative treatments and vaccinations as directed by the store’s consulting veterinarian.

Puppy Playtime and Socialization

Every puppy gets to interact with staff and customers throughout the day. Working with the store’s pet counselors, the kennel team ensures each of them is getting just the right amount of play and socialization. “For puppies, there is such a thing as having too much fun,” Jessica said. “It’s important that they have plenty of time to take naps, relax and rest.”

Spa Time

The PetCenter Old Bridge staff also make time to bathe and groom each puppy during the busy day. They trim nails and brush fur so everyone looks and smells great. The puppies even get their teeth brushed and their ears cleaned, daily.

Good Night

Before it’s time to say goodnight, the puppies eat dinner. The kennel staff also clean out the rooms one last time to make sure everyone is ready for a good night’s rest.

Hard Works Pays Off

Since joining the PetCenter Old Bridge team, Jessica said she has learned so much about puppies and their needs. “I’ve always been a dog lover, but I understand now that dogs aren’t just dogs. They have feelings and needs.”