Boneyard Boutique and Spa: Full-Service Grooming and Boarding in Charleston

What Boneyard Boutique and Spa Offers

Boneyard Boutique and Spa is a full-service grooming and boarding facility in Charleston that handles everything from basic baths and nail trims to breed-specific cuts and spa treatments. The business operates as both a day groomer and an overnight boarding kennel, so you can drop your dog off for a groom, a stay, or both on the same visit. They work with dogs of all sizes and coat types, and their staff includes certified groomers trained in handling anxious or senior dogs.

The facility sits on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston and combines grooming suites with climate-controlled boarding kennels. Unlike a groomer who works out of a salon chair, Boneyard operates as a dedicated space where dogs can be bathed, dried, and groomed on-site, then either picked up the same day or moved to a boarding area if you need overnight care. This setup means your dog stays in one place throughout the process rather than being transported between locations.

Key Takeaways

• Boneyard offers grooming services ranging from basic baths to full breed cuts, plus spa add-ons like paw treatments and aromatherapy.
• The facility provides overnight boarding in climate-controlled kennels, so you can combine grooming and boarding in a single drop-off.
• Staff are trained to work with anxious, senior, and special-needs dogs, not just routine appointments.
• Pricing varies by dog size and service type, so calling ahead with your dog's breed and grooming needs gives you an accurate quote.
• Hours and availability change seasonally, especially during summer heat and holiday periods, so confirm your preferred date before booking.

Grooming Services and Pricing

Boneyard's grooming menu includes standard services—baths, nail trims, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression—as well as full grooming packages tailored to breed standards. A Poodle or Doodle cut, for example, involves full body clipping and shaping, while a terrier groom follows different lines. They also offer hand-stripping for breeds that require it, though this is a specialty service that takes longer and costs more than clipping.

Spa add-ons include paw pad treatments, aromatherapy baths, and conditioning treatments for dogs with dry or sensitive skin. Pricing depends on your dog's size, coat condition, and the specific cut or treatment you choose. A small dog's basic bath and nail trim costs less than a large dog's full groom, and matted coats may incur an additional de-matting fee. Call ahead with your dog's breed, current coat condition, and the look you want to get a quote that reflects your actual needs rather than guessing from a menu.

Boarding Accommodations and Care

Boneyard's boarding kennels are climate-controlled and sized to give dogs room to move and rest comfortably. The facility does not use cages or crates during boarding—dogs stay in individual kennels with bedding and climate control. Staff check on boarding dogs regularly throughout the day and evening, and dogs are let out for bathroom breaks and supervised time in a play area.

Boarding rates are charged per night and vary slightly by dog size. If you board your dog and add grooming on the same visit, you typically pay for both services separately, though some packages combine them at a slight discount. Boneyard accepts dogs that are up to date on vaccinations (rabies, DHPP, and bordetella), so bring proof of vaccination when you drop off. Dogs with behavioral issues or medical conditions should be discussed with staff before booking to make sure the facility can safely accommodate them.

Drop-Off, Pick-Up, and Scheduling

Drop-off hours are typically morning appointments, usually between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m., though exact times vary by season and current demand. You'll need to provide your dog's name, your contact information, any special instructions (dietary needs, medication, behavioral notes), and emergency contact details. If your dog is boarding overnight, let staff know your expected pick-up time so they can plan feeding and care accordingly.

Pick-up is usually in the late afternoon or early evening on the day of grooming, or on your chosen checkout day if boarding. Boneyard's schedule fills up during peak seasons—spring, summer weekends, and holidays—so booking at least a week in advance is wise. You can call to check availability and reserve your spot, or ask about their online booking system if they offer one. If you need grooming on short notice, call to see if they have same-day or next-day openings.

Special Services for Anxious and Senior Dogs

Boneyard's staff are trained to work with dogs that are nervous, reactive, or have had bad grooming experiences. They can adjust handling techniques, take breaks during grooming, and use calming strategies to keep stress low. If your dog has a history of anxiety at the groomer, mention it when you book so staff can plan extra time and use a quieter grooming suite if available.

Senior dogs and those with medical conditions also receive modified care. Staff can accommodate dogs that need frequent bathroom breaks, have mobility issues, or require medication during their stay. If your dog is on medication, bring it in its original labeled bottle and provide clear written instructions on timing and dosage. Discuss any health concerns—arthritis, incontinence, heart conditions—with staff before drop-off so they can adjust boarding setup and handling to keep your dog safe and comfortable.

Location, Hours, and Contact Information

Boneyard Boutique and Spa is located on Meeting Street in downtown Charleston. Hours typically run Monday through Friday, with limited Saturday availability and Sunday closures, though this can shift seasonally. Summer hours may be adjusted to avoid the hottest parts of the day, and holiday hours often change. Call ahead to confirm current hours and to book your appointment.

You can reach Boneyard by phone to ask questions about services, pricing, availability, and any special needs your dog has. Having your dog's breed, age, current coat condition, and any behavioral or medical notes ready when you call will help staff give you accurate information and find the best appointment time for your situation.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Bring proof of current vaccinations (rabies, DHPP, and bordetella) when you drop off your dog. If your dog is on medication, bring it in the original labeled bottle with clear instructions. Pack any special food your dog eats if boarding overnight—Boneyard can feed your own food rather than providing their own. Include a favorite toy or blanket if it helps your dog feel calmer during boarding.

Before your first appointment, bathe your dog at home if possible to remove loose hair and dirt, which makes the groomer's job easier and faster. If your dog has mats or tangles, let staff know when you book so they can plan extra time or discuss de-matting options. Trim your dog's nails at home if you're comfortable doing it, or let the groomer handle it as part of the service. The more information you give staff about your dog's temperament, health, and grooming history, the better they can tailor the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does grooming take?

Basic services like a bath and nail trim take one to two hours. Full grooming with breed-specific cuts takes two to four hours depending on your dog's size and coat condition. Matted coats take longer because staff must carefully work through tangles. Call ahead to ask how long your specific dog's appointment will take so you know when to plan pick-up.

Can I stay and watch my dog being groomed?

Most groomers ask owners to leave during the appointment because dogs behave differently when their owner is present, which can make grooming harder and longer. Boneyard's policy on this may vary, so ask when you book. If your dog has severe anxiety, discuss it with staff—they may allow you to stay for part of the appointment or use other calming strategies.

What if my dog has never been groomed before?

Let staff know when you book so they can plan extra time and use a gentle approach. A first groom is often shorter and simpler—a bath, dry, and light trim—to help your dog get used to the process. Positive early experiences make future grooming easier, so staff will work at your dog's pace rather than rushing.

Do you board dogs with behavioral issues?

Discuss any behavioral concerns—aggression, anxiety, excessive barking—with staff before booking. Boneyard can often accommodate dogs with anxiety or mild reactivity, but dogs that are a safety risk to staff or other dogs may not be a good fit. Honesty about your dog's behavior helps staff decide if they can safely care for your dog and plan appropriate handling.

What happens if my dog gets sick during boarding?

Staff monitor dogs throughout the day and will contact you immediately if your dog shows signs of illness. Ask for the name of the veterinarian Boneyard works with in case emergency care is needed. Provide your emergency contact information and authorize staff to seek veterinary care if necessary. Discuss any chronic health conditions or medications when you book so staff know what to watch for.