Tallyho Kennels: A Full-Service Grooming and Boarding Facility in South Carolina
What Tallyho Kennels offers
Tallyho Kennels is a grooming and boarding facility that serves dogs and cats across South Carolina. The facility provides professional grooming services, boarding accommodations, and daycare options for pets whose owners need care while traveling or working. The kennels operate as a private business, not a government program, and handle both routine maintenance grooming and specialized coat work.
The grooming team works with various coat types and breeds, offering services like bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and full grooming packages. Boarding guests stay in climate-controlled kennels, and the facility typically includes feeding, water, and basic care as part of the boarding rate. Daycare allows owners to drop off pets during business hours for supervised play and socialization.
Key Takeaways
- Tallyho Kennels provides grooming, boarding, and daycare services for dogs and cats at a single location.
- Grooming services range from basic baths and nail trims to full breed-standard cuts and specialty work.
- Boarding includes climate-controlled housing, feeding, and water; rates vary by pet size and length of stay.
- Daycare is available for owners who need daytime supervision and socialization for their pets.
- You should contact the facility directly to confirm current hours, pricing, and availability before your visit.
Grooming services and what to expect
When you bring a pet in for grooming, the staff will discuss your preferences for coat length, style, and any special handling needs. If your dog has matting, skin sensitivities, or behavioral concerns, mention these upfront so the groomer can plan accordingly. Most grooming appointments take a few hours depending on the pet's size and coat condition.
Nail trimming, ear cleaning, and anal gland expression are often available as add-ons to a full groom or as standalone services. If your pet has never been groomed professionally before, a first visit may take longer as the groomer assesses the coat and temperament. Prices vary based on the pet's size, coat type, and the specific services requested.
Boarding your pet overnight or longer
Boarding at Tallyho Kennels works best when you book in advance, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons when space fills quickly. When you drop off your pet, bring any medications, special food, and written instructions about feeding schedules or behavioral quirks. The facility provides water and standard meals, though you can bring your own food if your pet has dietary restrictions.
Climate control keeps the kennels comfortable year-round, which matters in South Carolina's heat and humidity. Staff check on boarded pets regularly, and most facilities of this type allow owners to call for updates. Ask about the facility's policy on exercise time, outdoor access, and how they handle pets that are anxious or aggressive with other animals.
Daycare and socialization options
Daycare is useful if you work full-time or need a few hours of supervised care without an overnight stay. Pets typically spend time in group play areas or individual runs depending on their temperament and the facility's setup. This option works well for young dogs that need exercise and mental stimulation, or for pets whose owners want to avoid leaving them alone all day.
Ask whether daycare includes outdoor time, what the staff-to-pet ratio is, and how they manage dogs with different energy levels or social styles. Some facilities separate dogs by size or temperament to reduce stress and prevent injuries. Pricing for daycare is usually lower than boarding and is often charged by the hour or half-day.
How to contact and book with Tallyho Kennels
Call the facility directly to ask about current hours, pricing, and availability. You can also visit in person to see the kennels, meet the staff, and get a sense of how your pet would be cared for. Many pet owners find it reassuring to tour the facility before leaving their animal in someone else's care.
When you call, have your pet's name, age, breed, and any medical or behavioral information ready. Ask about their cancellation policy, payment methods, and whether they require proof of vaccinations (most reputable facilities do). If you need grooming and boarding together, ask whether they offer package rates or can schedule both services back-to-back.
What to bring and how to prepare your pet
For boarding, pack your pet's regular food in a labeled container, any medications in their original bottles, and written feeding instructions with times and amounts. Bring a familiar toy or blanket if it helps your pet feel secure. Include your veterinarian's contact information and your own phone number so staff can reach you in an emergency.
For grooming, bathe your pet the night before if possible to remove loose hair and make the groomer's job easier. Brush out any mats or tangles so the groomer doesn't have to spend extra time on them. If your pet is anxious about grooming, let the staff know so they can work at a comfortable pace or suggest calming strategies.
Questions to ask before your first visit
Beyond hours and pricing, ask about the facility's experience with your pet's breed or any special needs. Find out what happens if your pet gets sick or injured while in their care, and whether they have a relationship with a local veterinarian. Ask how they handle pets that are fearful, aggressive, or have never been boarded before.
Inquire about their vaccination requirements—most facilities require proof of rabies, DHPP (for dogs), and FVRCP (for cats). Ask whether they accept pets on medications and how they administer them. If your pet has separation anxiety or behavioral issues, discuss whether the facility has experience managing those situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my pet's vaccination records?
Most reputable boarding and grooming facilities require proof of current vaccinations, especially rabies and core vaccines. Call ahead to confirm what records Tallyho Kennels needs. Having these documents ready speeds up the check-in process and protects all the animals at the facility.
Can I bring my own food for my pet while boarding?
Yes, most facilities allow you to bring your pet's regular food if they have dietary restrictions or sensitivities. Pack it in a labeled container with clear feeding instructions. Let staff know about any allergies or digestive issues so they can monitor your pet during the stay.
How much does grooming typically cost?
Grooming prices vary based on your pet's size, coat type, and the services you request. Small dogs with short coats cost less than large dogs with long or curly coats. Call the facility for a quote based on your specific pet, or ask about pricing ranges for common services.
What should I do if my pet has never been boarded before?
Start with a short stay—a few hours of daycare or one night—so your pet can adjust gradually. Bring a familiar toy or blanket with your scent. Tell the staff about your pet's anxiety so they can offer extra attention and reassurance during the first visit.
Can I pick up my pet early if I return from my trip sooner than planned?
Most facilities allow early pickup, though you may still be charged for the full day or night depending on their policy. Call as soon as you know your return date so staff can plan accordingly. Confirm the facility's pickup hours and any fees for early release.