What to Expect at Wags and Whiskers Stay and Play in South Carolina

Wags and Whiskers Stay and Play offers boarding and daycare for dogs and cats across multiple South Carolina locations

Wags and Whiskers Stay and Play operates pet boarding and daycare facilities in South Carolina where you can leave your dog or cat while you travel or work. The facility provides overnight boarding, daytime care, and play programs designed around your pet's age and temperament. Staff assess each animal on arrival to match them with appropriate playgroups or individual care, depending on whether your pet does well in group settings or prefers quieter supervision.

The chain has expanded across South Carolina with multiple locations, each offering similar core services but with some variation in amenities and capacity. Before booking, you'll want to confirm which location is nearest to you and what specific services that branch offers, since not every facility has identical programs.

Key Takeaways

• Wags and Whiskers operates multiple locations across South Carolina, so you'll need to contact your nearest branch directly for pricing, availability, and specific services offered.
• The facility assesses your pet's personality and energy level to place them in appropriate playgroups or individual care during their stay.
• Overnight boarding, daytime daycare, and play programs are available, but hours and amenities vary by location.
• You'll need to provide your pet's vaccination records, dietary information, and any behavioral notes when you book or drop off.
• Advance booking is recommended, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons when capacity fills quickly.

What happens when you drop off your pet

When you arrive for drop-off, staff will ask you to complete intake paperwork that covers your pet's name, age, medical history, and any medications or special dietary needs. Bring vaccination records—most facilities require proof of current rabies and DHPP (distemper) vaccines for dogs, and rabies and FVRCP for cats. If your pet is on medication, provide it in its original labeled container with clear instructions on dosage and timing.

Staff will observe your pet's behavior during check-in to determine whether they're comfortable in a group play environment or if they need a quieter space. If your dog is anxious around other animals or has a history of aggression, let the staff know upfront—they can adjust the care plan accordingly. The same applies if your cat is stressed by noise or prefers to stay in a private area rather than a communal space.

Boarding versus daycare: which service fits your needs

Overnight boarding means your pet stays at the facility while you're away, typically checking in during business hours and picking up the next day or later. Your pet will sleep in an individual space and receive meals and bathroom breaks according to the facility's schedule. Daycare is drop-off care during the day—you bring your pet in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon or early evening, similar to a dog daycare or cat boarding day program.

Play programs are structured group activities during daycare hours, usually for dogs who enjoy socializing. Cats typically stay in quieter areas during daycare since most are less interested in group play. If you're traveling for a weekend or longer, overnight boarding is your option. If you work full-time and want your pet to have company and activity during the day, daycare or a play program may suit you better.

Pricing and booking information

Rates for boarding and daycare vary by location and by the services you choose. Overnight boarding typically costs more than daytime daycare, and some locations may charge differently for dogs versus cats or for pets with special needs. Play programs may have an additional fee beyond standard daycare rates. Contact your nearest Wags and Whiskers location directly for current pricing, as rates can change seasonally and may differ between branches.

Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially around holidays, summer vacation season, and major travel weekends. Many locations fill up quickly during peak times and may have limited availability if you call the day before or day of your trip. Some branches may offer online booking or require a phone call—check the facility's website or call ahead to learn their reservation process.

What to bring and what the facility provides

Bring your pet's regular food if they eat a special diet or have a sensitive stomach, since switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Pack any medications in their original containers with clear labels. You can also bring a familiar toy or blanket to help your pet feel more comfortable, though not all facilities allow this—ask when you book.

Most facilities provide basic care including meals, fresh water, bathroom breaks, and supervised rest time. Some locations have climate-controlled play areas, outdoor spaces for exercise, or enrichment activities like puzzle toys or interactive play. Ask what's included at your specific location so you know what to expect and whether you need to bring anything extra.

Health and safety practices at the facility

Vaccination requirements exist to protect all animals at the facility from contagious diseases. Current rabies and DHPP vaccines for dogs and rabies and FVRCP for cats are standard. Some facilities may also require bordetella (kennel cough) vaccine or proof of a recent fecal exam for parasites. Ask your veterinarian about these vaccines before your pet's first stay so you have documentation ready.

Facilities should maintain clean spaces, provide fresh water daily, and monitor pets for signs of illness or injury. If your pet becomes sick or injured during their stay, staff should contact you immediately. Confirm the facility's emergency protocol and whether they have a veterinary partner they work with if your pet needs urgent care while you're away.

Finding your nearest Wags and Whiskers location

Wags and Whiskers has multiple branches throughout South Carolina. To find the one closest to you, search online for "Wags and Whiskers Stay and Play" plus your city or region, or visit their website if they have a location finder. Each branch may have slightly different hours, services, and amenities, so confirm details with the specific location you plan to use.

Call ahead to ask about current availability, pricing, hours of operation, and any special services they offer. This is also a good time to ask whether you can tour the facility before booking, so you can see where your pet will stay and meet the staff who will care for them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to vaccinate my pet before boarding?

Yes. Most facilities require proof of current rabies and DHPP vaccines for dogs, and rabies and FVRCP for cats. Bring vaccination records from your veterinarian when you drop off your pet. If your pet's vaccines are not current, contact your vet before your boarding date to get them updated.

What if my pet has never been boarded before?

Tell staff during check-in that this is your pet's first stay. They can place your pet in a quieter area if needed and monitor them closely for signs of stress. A shorter first stay—like a single night or a few hours of daycare—can help your pet adjust before longer trips.

Can my pet stay if they're on medication?

Yes. Bring medication in its original labeled container with clear written instructions on dosage and timing. Confirm with staff that they can administer it and ask how often they'll give it. Some facilities charge an additional fee for medication administration.

What should I do if my pet has behavioral issues or aggression?

Mention this to staff before or during drop-off. They may place your pet in individual care rather than group play, or they may not be able to accommodate your pet if the behavior poses a safety risk. Being upfront helps staff plan appropriate care and keeps all animals safe.

How far in advance should I book?

Booking at least one to two weeks ahead is wise, especially during holidays and summer. Peak times fill quickly. If you need last-minute boarding, call your nearest location to ask about same-day or next-day availability, though options may be limited.