Looking for a good pet hotel nearby felt like finding a needle in a haystack. The prices tell quite a story – some places charge as little as $14 per night, while others ask up to $39, not counting taxes and fees.
Pet parents have several choices in Austintown. Budget-friendly Evans Kennel starts at $14 per night, and premium spots like The Dog Stop – Boardman charge more. The quality varies by a lot between places. The sort of thing i love about top-rated spots like Home2 Suites by Hilton is their solid track record – they keep ratings of 9.2 out of 10 from hundreds of real guest reviews.
Let me guide you through picking the perfect spot for your furry friend. We’ll look at prices, check out facilities, and figure out what makes a pet hotel worth every penny.
Understanding Different Types of Pet Hotels
“Your Pet’s Home Away from Home” — PetSmart, Major pet supplies retailer and services provider
Pet owners need to understand what makes each boarding option unique. Looking for a “pet hotel near me” has taught me that facilities differ in their care levels, amenities, and expertise. Here’s a breakdown of the main pet accommodation types to help you choose the right one.
Traditional Kennels vs. Luxury Pet Resorts
Traditional kennels serve as the standard pet boarding option with individual enclosures for pets during their owner’s absence. Each dog gets an 8×8-foot individual run, and trained staff take pets out several times daily. These facilities prioritize safety, cleanliness, and simple needs like feeding, watering, and waste removal.
Luxury pet resorts lift the boarding experience with premium amenities similar to human hotels. These upscale facilities offer:
- Spacious private suites with comfortable bedding, TVs and webcams
- Recreational areas with outdoor play spaces and swimming pools
- Individual-specific attention and customized care plans
- Better socialization through supervised group play
The difference between traditional kennels and luxury resorts shows in their approach. Traditional kennels use a practical model—dogs stay in their kennels most of the time with scheduled breaks for exercise and bathroom needs. Luxury resorts follow an “all-day play” philosophy where pets spend less time in their accommodations, mainly sleeping and eating.
Prices reflect these differences. Traditional kennels are budget-friendly, while luxury pet resorts charge more for their premium services and amenities. Some luxury facilities offer special packages with grooming, training, and spa treatments like massages and aromatherapy.
Veterinary Boarding Facilities
Veterinary boarding facilities give peace of mind through professional oversight, especially when you have pets with special medical needs. These places work best for pets who:
- Need medication administration, including injections
- Live with chronic health conditions that need monitoring
- Recover from surgery
- Must have quick access to medical care
Dogs stay in large runs while cats occupy cages in veterinary boarding facilities. The biggest advantage comes from having trained veterinarians and staff who can give medications and handle health concerns quickly.
Many veterinary boarding places go beyond medical supervision. Lake Forest Animal Hospital shows this by offering separate areas for dogs and cats, heated flooring in dog runs, and spacious cat condos. These facilities maintain strict vaccination rules, including rabies, distemper/parvovirus, and Bordetella for dogs.
In-Home Pet Boarding Options
Pets stressed by new environments benefit from in-home pet boarding. Your pet stays in a caregiver’s home, which means fewer animals around, more playtime, and extra attention.
In-home boarding benefits include:
- Care that matches your pet’s routine
- Less stress from the home-like setting
- Fewer illness risks from other animals
- More flexible scheduling than facilities
You should think about some important factors with in-home boarding. These services often operate without the regulatory oversight of commercial facilities since state licensing requirements don’t apply to them. In-home boarders might not have the same training as professional facility staff.
The core team needs a full check before choosing in-home boarding. Ask about their pet experience and check references. Make sure you know if other pets will stay there too.
PetSmart Pet Hotel Near Me: What to Expect
PetSmart runs over 1,500 stores nationwide with PetsHotel services in many locations, making them a familiar chain option. Their PetsHotel concept serves both overnight boarding and daycare needs for dogs and cats.
PetSmart PetsHotels come with these features:
- 24/7 care from trained pet specialists
- Dog guests get individual ID collars at check-in
- Video monitoring throughout
- Double-door keypad entry for security
- Separate air systems for dogs and cats
Dogs can choose between standard Atrium rooms and upgraded suites. They get supervised playtime, chances to socialize, and treats like dog-safe soft-serve ice cream. Cats stay in “Kitty Cottages” with dedicated staff attention time.
PetSmart PetsHotel charges $23-$36 nightly for dogs based on room type, while Doggie Day Camp costs $20-$25. Cat boarding costs $14 per night and $12 for day care. Add-on services range from $3-$16.
Your pets need specific vaccinations to stay at a PetSmart PetsHotel, including rabies and bordetella every 6 months. This matches industry standards for pet safety and health in boarding settings.
Each PetsHotel location employs 20-25 associates in a 5,000-7,000 square foot space. These facilities can handle over 200 pets at full capacity. PetSmart’s store locator tool helps you find PetsHotel services nearby.
Essential Features to Look for in a Quality Pet Hotel
“Caring for Pets, Creating Peace of Mind” — PetSmart, Major pet supplies retailer and services provider
My experience with pet hotels has taught me something important – the gap between average and exceptional care comes down to specific features that really matter. After visiting dozens of facilities and talking to veterinarians, I’ve identified what makes top-tier pet hotels stand out from the rest.
Safety Protocols and Supervision
Pet safety is non-negotiable. The best pet hotels use multiple protection layers to keep your pet secure during their stay. These safety features form the foundation of quality care:
- Extra-high fencing (8-10 feet tall) to prevent escape attempts
- 24/7 surveillance cameras monitoring all areas
- Advanced fire protection systems with sprinklers
- Temperature alarms to maintain comfortable climate and alert staff to sudden changes
- Secure gates reinforced with carabiners to prevent accidental openings
Quality supervision goes beyond physical safety measures. Staff members walk through all pet accommodations every hour to check on the animals. The best places use hospital-grade cleaning products daily to keep disease risks low.
I always check vaccination requirements before booking a pet hotel. Good establishments need core vaccinations including rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (for dogs) to protect all guests. This practice shows their dedication to maintaining a healthy environment.
Accommodation Size and Comfort
Space isn’t just about comfort—it directly affects your pet’s well-being during their stay. Animal welfare standards require accommodations that let each adult dog:
- Turn about freely
- Stand, sit, and lie down in comfortable positions
- Walk around normally
Dog enclosures need to be at least 6 inches taller than the tallest dog’s head. The minimum floor space calculation starts by measuring the dog from nose to tail base, adding 6 inches, then squaring that number.
The best pet hotels go beyond these minimums. They offer roomy spaces with cozy bedding and good airflow. I look for places with raised bed cots that keep pets off the ground, making things more comfortable and cleaner. Ceiling fans and climate control systems keep temperatures steady whatever the season.
Exercise and Playtime Opportunities
Exercise isn’t optional—your pet’s physical and emotional health depends on it. Quality pet hotels build structured activity into each day.
Playtime helps pets cope with being away from home. Research shows that interactive play helps ease anxiety and stress from separation. Physical activity keeps pets at a healthy weight and supports their overall health.
The best facilities typically offer:
- Group play sessions with pets of similar size and temperament
- Individual playtime with staff members
- Interactive toys and enrichment games for mental stimulation
Good facilities have both indoor and outdoor play areas with proper supervision. I make sure the hotel runs structured programs with multiple daily exercise sessions, which high-energy breeds really need.
Staff Qualifications and Pet-to-Staff Ratio
The people caring for your pet make all the difference in their experience. Staff qualifications aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. I check if the facility has:
- Certified animal handlers trained in behavior management
- Staff with pet first aid and CPR certification
- Professionals who know how to give medications properly
Fewer pets per staff member means more personal attention. Staff can quickly spot and respond to any signs of distress or illness.
Premium pet hotels often have different levels of pet care professionals. The Professional Animal Care Certification Council has three tiers: Providers for daily animal care, Managers for daily operations, and Operators who run the entire business. Having certified staff shows they take professional standards seriously.
Medical Care Capabilities
Medical care sets great pet hotels apart from basic boarding places. This matters especially for pets with ongoing conditions, those needing medicine, or older companions who need extra care.
Medical boarding provides specialized supervision by trained professionals who can:
- Know your pet’s medical history
- Give medications correctly, including shots
- Change doses if needed
- Spot warning signs based on your pet’s condition
I always check if a pet hotel can handle special needs. The best places ask you to bring your pet’s prescribed medications and usually their regular food, especially if it’s a special diet.
Good hygiene practices are part of quality medical care. The best pet hotels keep things clean to reduce infection risks. Some even have separate areas for sick pets, showing they think ahead about health management.
These five key features help me choose places that will keep my pet safe, comfortable, and happy while we’re apart. Finding the right pet hotel takes some homework, but knowing what to look for makes everything easier.
How to Research Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Me
Looking for the perfect pet accommodations takes a careful look at several sources to get that ideal “pet hotel near me.” A simple internet search isn’t enough. My research shows that mixing different ways to look things up leads to better results in finding quality care.
Using Online Directories and Apps
Pet travel directories list options that cater to pet owners’ needs. BringFido stands out as a great resource with over 500,000 pet-friendly accommodations in all 50 states and more than 100 countries. The platform’s Canine Concierge service makes sure pets get assigned to pet-friendly rooms during booking.
These specialized directories give helpful details:
- PetHotels.com lets you search by location and facility type (kennels, pet resorts, cat hotels)
- BringFido members get the lowest hotel rates without booking fees
- Most platforms let you filter specific amenities like outdoor space or pet sitting services
Looking for a “hotel pet friendly near me” means checking if the platform checks its listings or just takes information from businesses. Checked directories usually give more accurate details about pet policies, fees, and services.
Reading and Interpreting Reviews
Reviews are a great way to get real insights about potential pet places. They often show important details that official descriptions miss. The numbers tell us that annual spend on boarding a dog averages $226 and $78 for a cat based on APPA survey data.
My review analysis of any “petsmart pet hotel near me” or other facility looks at:
- Regular mentions of cleanliness and staff attention
- Real stories about stays instead of general praise
- Latest reviews that show how things work now
- How management handles negative feedback
People’s stories in reviews point out things to watch. To cite an instance, some reviewers say PetSmart’s daycare looks fun, but boarding might stress some pets. Local pet hotels often get better reviews than chain options because they give individual-specific experiences.
Requesting Virtual Tours
Pet boarding places now offer virtual tours because owners want to see where their pets will stay. These digital views let you check out the facility without bothering current animal guests.
Quality facilities show photographic or 360° virtual tours on their websites. You’ll see:
- Indoor/outdoor pet areas
- Sleeping spaces
- Play zones
- Grooming spots
Whispering Pines Pet Resort now only does virtual tours to keep their pet guests calm. This shows their steadfast dedication to a peaceful environment.
No virtual tour online? The facility staff will usually set up a personal virtual walkthrough if you ask, since they might be busy taking care of pets during regular hours.
Asking for Recommendations from Veterinarians
Vets know local pet care options well through their clients’ feedback. They hear first-hand stories about boarding places and can suggest options that fit specific pet needs.
The International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA) suggests specific questions for recommendations. Vets usually know about:
- Places that handle medical needs
- Staff numbers compared to pets
- How clean places are and how they prevent disease
- Rules about shots that match what vets recommend
This helps especially if your pet needs special care or has health issues during boarding.
Pre-Booking Visit Checklist
After finding good “pet friendly hotel near me” options, a full picture before booking helps collect all needed info. PetSmart’s PetsHotel says filling out forms early makes check-in faster.
My booking preparation includes:
- Facility questions: Staff training, watching hours, and emergency plans
- Pet-specific inquiries: Exercise times, feeding rules, and medicine giving
- Documentation needs: Shot records, including rabies and bordetella (needed every 6 months at many places)
- Dietary considerations: Your pet’s food (usually best) or their food (might cost extra)
- Special instructions: Written details about your pet’s habits and behavior
Starting this research several weeks before travel gives enough time to check multiple “pet hotel near me” options thoroughly. This leads to the best choice for your pet.
Comparing Costs and Value of Local Pet Boarding Options
Pet boarding prices can swing wildly based on several factors. I looked into many local options while planning my recent vacation and found that knowing the costs helps you find the sweet spot between great care and reasonable prices.
Understanding Pricing Structures
The cost to board a dog ranges from $22 to $60 per night. The national average sits at $35 for standard accommodations. These simple prices usually include daily playtime with other dogs and overnight supervision. Looking at different facility types shows a clear price pattern:
- Traditional kennels: $25-55 per night (most affordable option)
- Veterinary boarding: $30-60 per night
- Boarding with a sitter: $25-45 per night
- Home boarding: $45-75 per night
- Overnight daycare: $55-80 per night (premium option)
Your pet’s size substantially affects the price. Facilities often charge more for bigger dogs because they just need larger spaces and use more resources. Many places add about $10 to their base rate for large-breed dogs.
Additional Services and Their Costs
The simple boarding rate covers the basics like accommodation, feeding, and quick bathroom breaks. Facilities also offer extra services that can quickly add up:
- Playtime sessions: About $10 per extra activity
- Medication administration: $5-15 extra per night
- Transportation services: $10-20 per drop-off or pickup
- Grooming services: $30-100 depending on package
- Extended care (early drop-off/late pickup): Adds 50% to beginning/end of stay
Suite Paws shows this tiered service approach well. They offer extras like staff playtime, pool sessions, hair brushing, and cuddle time—each with its own price to customize your pet’s stay. Pet owners often see value in these add-ons despite the cost. The peace of mind from knowing their pets get extra attention makes it worth it.
Seasonal Price Variations
Holiday periods drive up pet boarding costs. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer vacation times usually see higher prices due to increased demand. While public data on specific seasonal rates is limited, most facilities charge premium rates during these busy times.
Where you live makes a big difference in price. To cite an instance, Washington DC’s average is about $80 per day for standard boarding, while Mississippi’s average is much lower at $31 per day. City prices are almost always higher than rural areas—something to think about when looking up “pet hotel near me” options.
Loyalty Programs and Discounts
Regular customers should look into loyalty programs that offer great savings. Pet Paradise shows this well with their “Furever Loyal Rewards Program.” Members earn one point per dollar spent and can use them for discounts:
- 250 points = $5 off
- 500 points = $25 off
- 1,000 points = $75 off
Their “Top Paw” program gives special benefits to customers who spend $3,500+ yearly, including quarterly digital rewards. Many places also offer multi-pet discounts from 10% to 50% off for additional pets. This helps make family vacations more affordable.
Hotel Pet Friendly Near Me Budget Options
Budget-conscious pet parents have several choices beyond specialized boarding facilities. Regular hotels with pet-friendly policies are often affordable, though they charge extra pet fees. Here’s what you’ll find in South Bend, Indiana:
- Motel 6 welcomes two pets of any size with no extra fee
- Super 8 allows two pets up to 60 pounds for $25 per pet nightly
- Quality Inn takes two pets up to 40 pounds for $20 per pet nightly
Longer stays usually give you better value. Many kennels offer weekly packages between $140-175 instead of the $175-385 you’d pay at regular nightly rates. This saves you about 20-30% on longer bookings.
Preparing Your Pet for Their Hotel Stay
Good preparation can make the difference between a stressful and successful boarding experience. I found the perfect pet hotel near me and always follow these steps to get my furry friend ready for their stay.
Required Vaccinations and Health Records
Quality boarding facilities have strict vaccination requirements to protect all guests. Dogs need these vaccines:
- Rabies (required by law and boarding facilities)
- DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
- Bordetella (kennel cough) – needed every 6 months
Cats need these standard vaccines:
- Rabies
- FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia)
The timing of vaccines matters – pets should get their shots at least 2 weeks before boarding to ensure they work. Pet hotels near me ask for proof of vaccination during check-in, so I keep these records handy.
Packing Essentials for Your Pet
Identification items come first – collars with ID tags are crucial. Here’s what else I pack:
Food and medication – Your pet’s regular food prevents stomach issues that come with sudden diet changes. Pack medications in original containers and write clear instructions.
Comfort items – A familiar blanket, toy, or shirt with your scent helps your pet feel secure and less anxious. These items bring the comfort of home to new surroundings.
Extra supplies – I pack 20% more food in case my stay runs longer than planned, plus any daily supplements my pet needs.
Acclimation Strategies for Anxious Pets
Short visits help pets deal with anxiety. I take my pet for quick “practice” visits before their first full boarding stay. These visits let them:
- Explore the environment
- Meet staff members
- Get used to the sights and sounds
Crate training at home builds confidence when you slowly increase alone time. I stay calm during drop-off since pets pick up on their owner’s emotions. Quick, cheerful goodbyes keep your pet from getting anxious.
Special Instructions for Caregivers
Clear instructions ensure consistent care. My documentation includes:
- Feeding schedule – Exact amounts, timing, and dietary restrictions
- Medication details – Full dosing instructions with timing, method, and special handling
- Behavioral information – Anxiety triggers, fears (like vacuum cleaners), and comfort routines
- Emergency contacts – My information plus local contacts who can make decisions if I’m unavailable
Staff can better maintain home routines when they know your pet’s commands. This setup helps recreate familiar patterns and makes the stay more comfortable.
These preparations help my pets adapt quickly to any hotel pet friendly near me, and they end up having a great time with minimal stress.
Comparison Table
| List Item | Main Focus/Purpose | Key Features | Cost Range | Requirements/Prerequisites | Notable Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Understanding Different Types of Pet Hotels | A guide to boarding choices | – Traditional Kennels (8×8-foot runs) – Luxury Pet Resorts – Veterinary Boarding – In-Home Boarding – PetSmart PetsHotel | $14-39 per night (varies by type) | Vaccination requirements (rabies, distemper, Bordetella) | Options that match your pet’s needs and your priorities |
| Simple Features to Look for | What makes a quality facility | – Safety protocols – Accommodation size – Exercise opportunities – The core team’s qualifications – Medical care capabilities | Not specified | – Extra-high fencing (8-10 feet) – Core vaccinations – Proper ventilation systems | Improved pet safety and comfort during their stay |
| How to Research Pet Hotels | Smart ways to find and evaluate | – Online directories – Review platforms – Virtual tours – Vet recommendations | $226 annual average for dogs, $78 for cats | Pre-booking visit checklist completion | Better decisions through multiple research channels |
| Comparing Costs and Value | Understanding pricing options | – Simple boarding – Additional services – Seasonal variations – Loyalty programs | $22-80 per night (location dependent) | Size and breed restrictions may apply | Flexible pricing options for every budget |
| Preparing Your Pet | Getting ready for boarding | – Vaccination records – Essential supplies – Acclimation visits – Care instructions | Not specified | – Required vaccinations – Health records – Identification items | Easier transition and less anxiety for your pet |
Conclusion
You need to look at several things when choosing a pet hotel – from the type of facility to the costs involved. My experience has taught me what makes a quality pet hotel tick. The best ones have solid safety measures, rooms of the right size, and qualified staff watching over the pets. These features create a safe and cozy space for our four-legged friends.
Money matters, but there’s more to it than just the daily rate. Extra services, different prices for peak seasons, and member discounts can substantially change what you end up paying. I’ve found that time spent checking online listings, reading what others say, and asking your vet for suggestions helps find the perfect match for your pet and wallet.
Good preparation is vital for a successful boarding stay. Get those vaccine records ready, pack your pet’s favorite things, and write down detailed care instructions. These steps, along with picking the right facility, set the stage for a great experience.
The right pet hotel should give you professional care, comfort, and good value that fits your needs. Book your spot now to feel confident that your pet will get excellent care. With the right homework and preparation, you can trust your furry friend will be in good hands.
FAQs
Q1. Is it safe to leave my dog at a pet hotel? Yes, reputable pet hotels can provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your dog. They offer professional care, socialization opportunities, and secure environments. However, it’s important to research and choose a facility that meets high standards for safety, cleanliness, and pet care.
Q2. What should I look for in a quality pet hotel? Key features to consider include robust safety protocols, spacious and comfortable accommodations, regular exercise opportunities, qualified staff, and medical care capabilities. Also, check their vaccination requirements and cleanliness standards to ensure a healthy environment for all pets.
Q3. How much does pet boarding typically cost? The cost of pet boarding can vary widely, typically ranging from $22 to $60 per night, with an average of around $35 for standard accommodations. Prices can be higher in urban areas and during peak seasons. Many facilities offer additional services and amenities that can increase the overall cost.
Q4. How can I prepare my pet for a hotel stay? To prepare your pet, ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date, pack familiar items like toys or blankets, and provide detailed care instructions to the staff. Consider short “practice” visits to the facility before a longer stay to help your pet acclimate. Remain calm during drop-off to avoid transferring anxiety to your pet.
Q5. Are there alternatives to traditional pet hotels? Yes, alternatives include in-home pet sitting services, where a sitter stays at your home or your pet stays at theirs. Some pet owners also opt for pet-friendly hotels that allow pets to stay in the room. These options can be particularly suitable for pets that don’t do well in traditional boarding environments.