Hollycrest Bed & Biscuit: Boarding and Grooming for Dogs and Cats in the Midlands

What Hollycrest Bed & Biscuit offers

Hollycrest Bed & Biscuit is a pet boarding and grooming facility in Irmo, South Carolina, serving the greater Columbia area. The business boards dogs and cats overnight or for extended stays, and offers grooming services including baths, haircuts, and nail trims. The facility operates as a family-run operation focused on keeping pets comfortable while their owners travel or manage other obligations.

The boarding side of the business provides kennels for both dogs and cats, with daily feeding and water changes. Pets stay in individual spaces rather than group play areas, which matters if your animal is anxious around other pets or has specific health needs. The grooming services run separately, so you can board your pet without grooming, groom without boarding, or combine both.

Key Takeaways

• Hollycrest boards both dogs and cats in individual kennels for overnight or multi-day stays in the Irmo area near Columbia.
• Grooming services include baths, haircuts, and nail care, available as a standalone service or paired with boarding.
• The facility is family-operated and keeps pets in separate spaces rather than group environments.
• You will need to provide your pet's food, vaccination records, and any medications or special care instructions when you drop off.

Boarding rates and how long you can stay

Hollycrest charges by the night for boarding, with rates varying based on the size of your pet and the length of your stay. Overnight boarding is available for single nights or consecutive days. The facility accepts both dogs and cats, though you should confirm current pricing by contacting them directly, as rates change seasonally and may differ between species or size categories.

Most boarding facilities in the Midlands region charge between $25 and $50 per night for dogs, depending on size and amenities, though Hollycrest's specific pricing should be verified before you book. Longer stays sometimes come with discounted nightly rates. If you need boarding for an extended period—such as a two-week vacation—ask whether the facility offers weekly or multi-week pricing.

What to bring and how to prepare your pet

When you drop off your pet for boarding, bring enough food for the entire stay. Hollycrest does not provide food; you supply what your pet normally eats to avoid digestive upset from diet changes. Pack the food in a labeled container so staff can portion it correctly. If your pet takes medication, bring it in its original bottle with clear instructions on dosage and timing.

Bring vaccination records, particularly proof of rabies and DHPP (for dogs) or FVRCP (for cats). Most boarding facilities require these before accepting a pet, and Hollycrest is no exception. If your pet has behavioral quirks, anxiety, or special handling needs, write them down and discuss them with staff during drop-off. Bring a familiar toy or blanket if it helps your pet feel secure in a new environment.

Grooming services and what to expect

Grooming at Hollycrest includes baths, haircuts, and nail trims. A full groom typically takes two to four hours depending on your pet's coat type, size, and condition. If your pet's coat is matted or severely tangled, grooming may take longer or cost more, so mention this when you call. The groomer will bathe your pet, dry and brush the coat, trim nails, and cut hair to your specifications.

You can drop off your pet in the morning and pick up the same day, or schedule grooming as part of a boarding stay. If you board your pet and want grooming done during the stay, confirm the grooming date and time when you drop off so staff knows to have your pet ready. Grooming prices vary by pet size and coat condition; call ahead for a quote based on your specific pet.

Hours, location, and how to contact them

Hollycrest Bed & Biscuit is located in Irmo, which sits about 15 minutes northwest of downtown Columbia. The facility operates during standard business hours, though exact hours vary by day of the week. Call ahead to confirm when they open and close, especially if you need to drop off or pick up outside typical weekday times.

To reach Hollycrest, contact them by phone to discuss your pet's needs, ask about current rates, and schedule boarding or grooming. They will ask about your pet's age, size, breed, health status, and any behavioral concerns. Having this information ready when you call speeds up the conversation. If you are a first-time customer, they may ask you to come in person to drop off your pet rather than using a third party, so plan accordingly.

What makes Hollycrest different from larger chains

Hollycrest operates as a family business rather than a corporate chain, which often means more personalized attention and flexibility. Staff know their regular customers and their pets by name, and they can adjust care based on individual needs rather than following a rigid protocol. If your pet has anxiety or behavioral issues, a smaller facility may be better equipped to handle them than a high-volume operation.

The trade-off is that a smaller facility may have fewer staff members and less availability during peak travel seasons. Booking early—especially around holidays or summer vacation—increases your chances of getting the dates you need. If the facility is full, ask whether they can refer you to another trusted groomer or boarder in the area.

Preparing for your first visit

Before your first drop-off, call Hollycrest to introduce your pet and ask any questions about their specific policies. Ask whether they have experience with your pet's breed, age, or any health conditions. Mention if your pet is anxious, aggressive, or has special dietary needs. The more information you provide upfront, the better they can prepare.

Arrive for drop-off with time to spare so you can complete paperwork and discuss your pet's routine with staff. Bring a list of emergency contact information and your veterinarian's phone number. If your pet has never been boarded before, a short first stay—one or two nights—helps them adjust before you commit to a longer trip. Stay calm during drop-off; pets pick up on owner anxiety, so a quick, matter-of-fact goodbye works better than a prolonged farewell.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to provide my own food, or can Hollycrest feed my pet?

You must bring your pet's own food. Hollycrest does not provide meals, so pack enough for the entire stay in a labeled container. This prevents digestive upset from sudden diet changes and ensures your pet eats what they are used to.

What vaccinations does my pet need before boarding?

Most boarding facilities require proof of rabies vaccination and DHPP (dogs) or FVRCP (cats). Bring vaccination records with you at drop-off. If your pet's vaccines are not current, contact your veterinarian before your boarding date to get them updated.

Can I pick up my pet early if my plans change?

Yes, but call ahead to confirm staff will be available. If you need to pick up outside normal hours, ask whether they can accommodate an early or late pickup. Some facilities charge a fee for after-hours pickups, so ask about this when you book.

What happens if my pet gets sick or injured while boarding?

Bring your veterinarian's contact information at drop-off. If your pet becomes ill or injured, Hollycrest will contact you and your vet. You are responsible for emergency veterinary bills. Ask whether the facility has a preferred emergency vet clinic in case your regular vet is closed.

How far in advance should I book boarding?

Book as early as possible, especially during holidays and summer. Peak travel seasons fill up quickly, and a small facility may have limited availability. Calling two to four weeks ahead gives you the best chance of securing your preferred dates.