What to Expect at Fur Ever Friends Pet Resort and Spa in South Carolina

Fur Ever Friends offers boarding, grooming, and daycare under one roof in the Midlands

Fur Ever Friends Pet Resort and Spa is a full-service facility in Columbia that combines overnight boarding, professional grooming, and daytime care in a single location. The resort handles dogs and cats, with separate areas designed to keep animals comfortable during their stay. If you need your pet groomed before a trip, boarded while you travel, or watched during the workday, this is a place to call rather than coordinate across multiple providers.

The facility operates as a resort rather than a traditional kennel, meaning the environment emphasizes space and enrichment alongside basic care. Pets stay in climate-controlled areas, and the grooming salon operates on-site so you can drop off a dog for both a bath and a trim on the same visit if needed.

Key Takeaways

• Fur Ever Friends provides boarding, grooming, and daycare services, so you can handle multiple pet needs in one location rather than driving to separate businesses.
• The facility keeps dogs and cats in separate, climate-controlled areas designed to reduce stress during overnight stays.
• Grooming appointments can be scheduled independently or combined with boarding, depending on your pet's needs and your timeline.
• First-time customers should contact the resort directly to discuss their pet's age, health, behavior, and any special requirements before booking.

Boarding options for dogs and cats

Overnight boarding at Fur Ever Friends separates dogs and cats into different sections of the facility. Dogs typically stay in individual runs or suites depending on the package you choose, while cats have their own quieter area. The resort maintains climate control year-round, which matters in South Carolina summers when outdoor kennels can become dangerously hot.

Boarding rates vary based on the size of your pet and the type of accommodation. Standard runs cost less than premium suites, which may include extra space or additional amenities. Multi-day stays often have per-night pricing that is lower than single-night rates, so longer trips can be more economical. You will need to provide your pet's food, vaccination records, and any medications or special instructions when you drop off.

The resort requires proof of current vaccinations, particularly rabies and DHPP for dogs and FVRCP for cats. If your pet has behavioral issues, medical conditions, or dietary restrictions, discuss these when you call to book. Some facilities will not board animals with certain health or temperament concerns, so confirming ahead prevents a wasted trip.

Grooming services and what to bring

The on-site grooming salon handles baths, haircuts, nail trims, ear cleaning, and other standard grooming tasks. Groomers work with dogs of all sizes and coat types, from short-haired breeds that need basic maintenance to long-haired dogs requiring full trims. Cat grooming is available but less common; call ahead if you need a cat bathed or groomed, as some facilities limit feline services.

Grooming appointments should be scheduled in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer. Turnaround time depends on how busy the salon is and how much work your pet needs—a simple bath and nail trim might take an hour or two, while a full haircut can take several hours. Ask when you book whether your pet will be ready the same day or if you need to pick up the next morning.

Bring your pet's grooming history if you have it—information about previous cuts, any skin sensitivities, or reactions to products helps the groomer customize the experience. If your dog is anxious about grooming, mention that when you call; some groomers can work with nervous pets more effectively if they know what to expect.

Daycare and drop-in services

Fur Ever Friends offers daytime care for pets whose owners work full shifts or need supervision during the day. Daycare typically runs during business hours and allows dogs to socialize in group play areas or stay in individual spaces depending on temperament and your preference. This service is useful for puppies that need frequent bathroom breaks, senior dogs that should not be left alone for eight hours, or any pet that benefits from midday attention.

Daycare pricing is usually per day or per half-day, and some facilities offer package rates if you need care multiple days per week. Drop-off and pick-up times are fixed, so confirm the facility's hours before you commit. If you are frequently late picking up your pet, ask about late fees upfront.

How to book and what information to have ready

Contact Fur Ever Friends directly by phone or visit in person to discuss your pet's needs and get current pricing. Have your pet's name, age, breed, weight, and any medical or behavioral information available when you call. If your pet takes medication, eats a special diet, or has anxiety or aggression issues, mention these details so the staff can determine whether they can accommodate your animal.

Booking typically requires a deposit or credit card to hold the reservation, especially for boarding during busy weekends or holidays. Ask about cancellation policies—some facilities charge a fee if you cancel within a certain window, while others are more flexible. Confirm the drop-off and pick-up times, and ask what happens if you are running late.

Bring vaccination records, any medications in their original bottles, your pet's regular food (or confirm the facility has what your pet eats), and written instructions for feeding, medications, or behavioral concerns. Leave a contact number where you can be reached, and provide the name and number of your veterinarian in case of emergency.

Preparing your pet for their first visit

If your pet has never been boarded or groomed before, a first visit can be stressful. Some facilities allow a short tour or trial visit so your pet can see the space and meet staff. This is especially helpful for anxious dogs or cats that have never been away from home. A brief, positive introduction can make the actual boarding or grooming appointment less frightening.

Bring a familiar item like a blanket or toy that smells like home—this can comfort your pet during an overnight stay. Avoid bringing expensive toys or collars that might get lost or damaged. If your pet is on anxiety medication prescribed by your veterinarian, ask whether you should give it before drop-off or whether the facility can administer it during the stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my pet's own food, or does Fur Ever Friends provide it?

Most facilities ask you to bring your pet's regular food to avoid digestive upset from a diet change. If you forget or do not have enough, call ahead to see whether the resort stocks common brands or can work with what you provide. Always confirm this when you book, especially if your pet eats a prescription or specialty diet.

What if my pet gets sick or injured while boarding?

Fur Ever Friends will contact you immediately if your pet shows signs of illness or injury. Have your veterinarian's contact information and your own phone number clearly written on the boarding paperwork. Ask the facility whether they have a preferred emergency vet clinic and whether they will transport your pet or wait for you to pick them up and take them yourself.

Can I visit my pet while they are boarding?

Most boarding facilities discourage visits because they can upset pets and disrupt the routine. Ask the resort's policy when you book. Some allow brief visits if your pet is struggling, while others prefer you stay away so your pet adjusts more quickly.

How far in advance should I book grooming or boarding?

Booking at least one to two weeks ahead gives you more appointment options, especially for grooming. Boarding during holidays or summer weekends fills quickly, so book as soon as you know your travel dates. Last-minute bookings may be possible if the facility has availability, but do not count on it during peak seasons.

What should I do if my pet has never been groomed before?

Tell the groomer when you book that this is your pet's first experience. A groomer experienced with first-timers can work slowly, use positive reinforcement, and keep the session shorter to build confidence. Avoid scheduling a full, complicated groom for a first visit—a simple bath and nail trim is better for introducing your pet to the process.