What to Know About RC's Dog Boarding in South Carolina

RC's Dog Boarding offers cage-free boarding and daycare for dogs in South Carolina, with locations designed around play, socialization, and individual attention rather than kennels.

RC's operates as a cage-free facility, meaning dogs spend their time in open play areas with other dogs and staff rather than in individual enclosures. The facility emphasizes group interaction during the day and provides separate rest areas at night. This setup appeals to owners who want their dogs to stay active and social while they are away, rather than confined to a single space for hours.

The business runs both boarding (overnight stays) and daycare (daytime drop-off and pickup) services. Boarding typically runs from morning drop-off through the following afternoon pickup, though exact hours depend on which location you use. Daycare operates during business hours and works for owners who need a few hours or a full day of care.

Key Takeaways

• RC's Dog Boarding operates cage-free facilities where dogs play together in groups rather than staying in individual kennels.
• The facility offers both overnight boarding and daytime daycare services, with pricing and hours that vary by location.
• Dogs must be current on vaccinations (rabies, DHPP, and bordetella) and pass a temperament assessment before their first stay.
• You will need to provide food, medications, and any comfort items your dog uses, along with emergency contact information and veterinary records.
• Reservations should be made in advance, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons when space fills quickly.

What to Bring and Prepare Before Drop-Off

Bring your dog's regular food in its original bag or container, since switching foods suddenly can upset their stomach. If your dog takes medication, bring it in the original labeled bottle with clear instructions on dosage and timing. Include any comfort items—a favorite toy, blanket, or bed—that will help your dog feel at home during the stay.

You will also need to provide your veterinarian's contact information, your emergency contact number, and any special instructions about your dog's behavior, fears, or routines. Let staff know if your dog has separation anxiety, resource guarding, or any other behavioral notes that will help them manage the group setting safely. The more detail you give, the better the staff can watch for signs of stress or discomfort.

Vaccination and Health Requirements

RC's requires proof that your dog is current on rabies, DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza), and bordetella (kennel cough) vaccines. These are standard requirements across most boarding facilities in South Carolina because they prevent the spread of contagious diseases in group settings. Your veterinarian can provide vaccination records, usually in the form of a certificate you can email or bring in.

Before the first stay, your dog will go through a temperament assessment—staff will spend time with your dog to see how they interact with other dogs and people. This is not a pass-or-fail test in the traditional sense, but rather a way for staff to understand your dog's personality and place them in compatible groups. Dogs with severe aggression or extreme anxiety may not be suited to a cage-free group environment, and staff will let you know if that is the case.

Pricing and How to Reserve

RC's pricing varies by location and service type. Overnight boarding typically costs more than daycare, and some locations offer discounts for multi-day stays or regular customers. Call the specific location you plan to use to ask about current rates, since prices can change seasonally and may differ between facilities.

Reservations are made directly with the facility by phone or through their website, depending on which location you choose. During holidays, school breaks, and summer vacation, space fills up quickly—booking two to three weeks in advance is common during peak times. If your preferred dates are full, ask about a waitlist or whether another nearby location has availability.

What Happens During a Boarding Stay

On drop-off day, staff will check in your dog, review any special instructions, and confirm your pickup time. Your dog will spend the day playing with other dogs in supervised groups, with breaks for meals, water, and rest. Most facilities rotate dogs between play groups to prevent fatigue and manage energy levels throughout the day.

At night, dogs typically move to quieter rest areas where they can sleep. Some facilities use separate rooms or sections; others use the same space with reduced activity and lighting. Staff monitor dogs during the night and are trained to spot signs of illness or injury. When you pick up your dog, staff will give you a brief report on how the stay went—whether your dog played well, ate normally, and any notable behavior or health observations.

Finding the Right Location for Your Needs

RC's has multiple locations across South Carolina, and each may have slightly different hours, pricing, and amenities. Some locations may have outdoor play areas, grooming services, or training options in addition to boarding and daycare. Check the specific location's website or call ahead to confirm what services are available and whether they match what your dog needs.

If you have never used a boarding facility before, consider starting with a short daycare visit or an overnight stay while you are still in town. This gives your dog a chance to adjust to the environment and staff in a lower-stress way, and it gives you confidence that your dog is comfortable before you leave for a longer trip. Many owners find that their dogs actually enjoy the social time and look forward to returning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my dog has never been boarded before?

Start with a daycare visit or a short overnight stay to help your dog adjust. Staff can work with you to ease the transition, and many dogs settle in quickly once they realize other dogs are there and play is happening. Bring a familiar toy or blanket to help your dog feel more at home.

Can I bring my own food, or does RC's provide it?

You bring your dog's regular food. This prevents digestive upset from sudden diet changes and ensures your dog eats what they are used to. Label the food clearly with your dog's name and bring it in the original bag or a sealed container.

What if my dog gets sick or injured during boarding?

Staff will contact you immediately using the emergency number you provided. RC's will not treat medical issues on-site; instead, they will take your dog to an emergency veterinary clinic if needed. Make sure your emergency contact is someone who can authorize veterinary care and that you have given staff permission to seek treatment.

Are there extra fees for dogs with special needs or behavioral issues?

Some facilities charge additional fees for dogs requiring medication administration, special diets, or extra attention due to anxiety or aggression. Ask about these costs when you call to reserve, and be honest about your dog's needs so staff can tell you upfront whether they can accommodate your dog and what it will cost.

How far in advance should I book for a holiday trip?

Book as soon as you know your travel dates, ideally four to six weeks before major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer vacation. During these peak times, facilities fill up quickly and may have waitlists. If your preferred dates are full, ask about alternative locations or dates that might work.