What to Know About Best Friends Boarding in South Carolina

Best Friends Boarding operates pet care facilities across South Carolina where you can leave your dog, cat, or other pet while you travel or work

Best Friends Boarding runs multiple locations throughout South Carolina, each offering boarding services for dogs, cats, and sometimes other animals. The chain focuses on cage-free or spacious housing, daily exercise, and supervised play — though the exact setup, pricing, and available services vary by location. Before booking, you'll need to contact your nearest facility directly to confirm what they offer, what your pet's stay will cost, and what paperwork or health records they require.

The company operates as a private business, not a government program, so costs and policies are set by each individual location. Some facilities may offer additional services like grooming, training, or specialized care for senior or anxious pets, but these are not standard across all Best Friends Boarding locations in the state.

Key Takeaways

• Best Friends Boarding has multiple locations in South Carolina, and each one sets its own prices, hours, and policies.
• Most locations offer cage-free or large-pen boarding with daily exercise and play time, though you should confirm the specific setup at your chosen facility.
• You will need to provide vaccination records, proof of flea and tick prevention, and sometimes a signed health form before your pet can stay.
• Booking in advance — especially during holidays or peak travel seasons — increases your chances of securing a spot.
• Some locations offer add-on services like grooming or training, but these are not available at every Best Friends Boarding facility.

Finding a Best Friends Boarding Location Near You

Best Friends Boarding operates in several South Carolina cities, but the exact number and locations change over time. Your first step is to search online for "Best Friends Boarding" plus your city or county name, or visit the company's website if they maintain a central location directory. Many facilities have their own phone numbers, hours, and booking systems, so a direct call is often the fastest way to check availability and get pricing.

When you call, ask whether they currently have openings for your pet's breed and size, what dates they can accommodate, and whether they have any breed restrictions or size limits. Some locations may be fully booked weeks in advance, especially around holidays, so calling early matters.

What to Bring and What Records You'll Need

Best Friends Boarding locations typically require proof that your pet is up to date on vaccinations, particularly rabies and DHPP (for dogs) or FVRCP (for cats). You'll also usually need to show proof of current flea and tick prevention — many facilities require this before check-in to prevent infestations. Bring vaccination records with you or have your veterinarian send them directly to the facility.

Most locations ask you to fill out a health and behavior form that covers your pet's medical history, any medications they take, behavioral quirks, dietary needs, and emergency contact information. Bring any medications your pet needs in their original labeled bottles, along with clear written instructions on dosage and timing. If your pet eats a special diet, bring enough food for the entire stay rather than assuming the facility will have it on hand.

Daily Care and Exercise at Best Friends Boarding

Best Friends Boarding locations typically advertise cage-free or large-pen housing, meaning your pet is not confined to a small kennel all day. Most facilities offer group play time in a yard or play area, supervised by staff, so your pet gets exercise and social interaction with other animals. Some locations also provide individual attention, training sessions, or one-on-one time depending on what you pay for.

Ask your facility what the daily schedule looks like — how many times your pet goes outside, how long play sessions last, whether they're supervised the entire time, and what happens if your pet doesn't get along with other animals. If your pet is anxious, aggressive, or has special needs, tell the facility upfront so they can place your pet in an appropriate setting or let you know if they cannot accommodate those needs.

Pricing and Booking

Best Friends Boarding prices vary significantly by location, pet type, and length of stay. A single night for a dog might range from one price point to another depending on the facility's overhead, location, and amenities, but you cannot know your cost without contacting the specific location where you want to board. Some facilities offer discounts for longer stays, multiple pets, or returning customers.

Most locations require a deposit or payment in full at the time of booking to hold your reservation. Ask about their cancellation policy — some will refund your deposit if you cancel within a certain window, while others may keep it or charge a fee. Confirm the check-in and check-out times, and ask whether there are late fees if you pick up your pet after hours.

Health and Safety Considerations

Before boarding your pet, make sure they are in good health. If your pet has a chronic condition, is very old, or is recovering from surgery, discuss boarding with your veterinarian first — some facilities may not be equipped to handle medical emergencies or intensive care. Ask the facility what they do if your pet becomes ill or injured during their stay, and whether they have a veterinarian on call or a relationship with a nearby emergency clinic.

Confirm that the facility practices good hygiene — ask how often they clean pens, whether they separate sick animals from healthy ones, and what their policy is on contagious illnesses. A reputable facility should be willing to answer these questions and may even invite you to tour the premises before you book.

Preparing Your Pet for Their First Stay

If your pet has never been boarded before, a shorter first stay — like one or two nights — can help them adjust without overwhelming stress. Bring a familiar blanket, toy, or item that smells like home; many facilities allow this and it can comfort your pet. Leave detailed instructions about your pet's routine, favorite treats, and any calming techniques that work at home.

On drop-off day, stay calm and matter-of-fact during goodbye — pets pick up on anxiety. Avoid making a big emotional scene, which can increase their stress. Most facilities will contact you if something goes wrong, but you can also call to check in if you're worried, though some facilities discourage frequent calls because they can upset the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book Best Friends Boarding in advance?

Yes, especially if you're boarding during holidays, summer vacation, or weekends. Many locations fill up weeks ahead. Calling at least one to two weeks before your travel date gives you the best chance of getting a spot, though some facilities may accommodate last-minute bookings if they have availability.

What happens if my pet gets sick while boarding?

Ask your facility before you book what their protocol is for illness or injury. Most will contact you immediately and may take your pet to a veterinarian at your expense. Confirm whether they have a relationship with a specific clinic and whether you can authorize emergency care in advance or if they'll wait for your approval.

Can I bring my own food for my pet?

Yes, and many facilities prefer it. Bring enough food for the entire stay in a clearly labeled container with feeding instructions. If your pet eats a special diet or has food sensitivities, bringing your own food prevents digestive upset from a diet change.

Are there breed or size restrictions at Best Friends Boarding?

Some locations have restrictions on certain breeds or very large dogs, while others do not. Call your nearest facility to ask about their specific policies. If your pet is a restricted breed or unusually large, you may need to search for a facility that can accommodate them.

What should I do if my pet seems stressed after boarding?

Some pets take a day or two to settle back into their routine after boarding. Keep things calm, stick to their normal schedule, and give them extra attention. If stress persists or your pet shows signs of illness, contact your veterinarian to rule out a medical issue.