Isle of Paws: Pet Boarding and Daycare in Charleston

What Isle of Paws offers

Isle of Paws is a pet boarding and daycare facility in Charleston that cares for dogs and cats while their owners are away or at work. The facility provides overnight boarding, day programs, and grooming services. Dogs stay in climate-controlled kennels and have access to indoor and outdoor play areas; cats are housed separately in a quiet environment designed to reduce stress.

The facility operates year-round and accepts both new and returning pets. Staff members monitor animals throughout the day and night, and the space includes amenities like water bowls, bedding, and toys. Isle of Paws also offers basic grooming—baths, nail trims, and brush-outs—either as standalone services or as add-ons to boarding stays.

Key Takeaways

• Isle of Paws provides overnight boarding, daycare, and grooming services for dogs and cats in a climate-controlled facility in Charleston.
• Dogs have access to indoor and outdoor play areas during their stay, while cats are kept in a separate, quieter environment.
• You will need to provide your pet's medical history, vaccination records, and any special dietary or behavioral information when you first book.
• Rates vary depending on the length of stay, the type of service, and whether your pet requires special care or has behavioral needs.
• The facility is open year-round, but availability fills quickly during holidays and peak travel seasons.

Boarding rates and what they include

Isle of Paws charges by the night for overnight boarding and by the hour or half-day for daycare. Overnight boarding includes a kennel, meals (you provide your pet's food, or the facility can supply standard options), water, and basic supervision. Daycare typically runs during business hours and includes playtime, water, and monitoring.

Grooming services—such as baths, nail trims, and brush-outs—are priced separately and can be added to a boarding stay or booked on their own. Prices vary based on your pet's size, coat condition, and the specific service. Contact the facility directly for current rates, as pricing changes seasonally and may differ for dogs with special needs or behavioral considerations.

What to bring and how to prepare your pet

Before your first visit, bring your pet's vaccination records, especially proof of rabies and DHPP (for dogs) or FVRCP (for cats). You will also need to provide any medications your pet takes, along with clear written instructions for administration. If your pet eats a specific brand or type of food, bring enough for the entire stay—the facility can supply standard kibble if you prefer.

Pack comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket to help reduce stress during the stay. Let staff know about any behavioral quirks, dietary restrictions, or medical conditions—for example, if your dog is anxious around other animals or if your cat requires a quiet space. The more information you provide upfront, the better the staff can care for your pet.

Booking and cancellation policies

You can book Isle of Paws by calling the facility or visiting in person. Many facilities require advance notice for boarding, especially during holidays and summer months when availability fills quickly. Ask about their cancellation policy—most require notice within a certain number of days to avoid a charge.

Peak travel seasons (Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, and summer vacation) book up weeks in advance. If you know you will need boarding during these times, contact the facility early. Some facilities offer a waiting list if their preferred dates are full.

Health and safety standards

Isle of Paws requires current vaccination records for all pets to prevent the spread of disease. Dogs must have proof of rabies and DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza); cats must have rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia). Some facilities also require bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination for dogs, especially if they will be in group play areas.

The facility maintains separate spaces for dogs and cats and cleans kennels between stays. Staff members watch for signs of illness or injury and can contact your veterinarian in an emergency. Ask about their protocol if your pet becomes sick or injured during a stay—specifically, whether they have a preferred veterinarian and how they handle emergency care costs.

Special services and add-ons

Beyond basic boarding and daycare, Isle of Paws offers grooming services that can be scheduled during a boarding stay or as a standalone appointment. Some facilities also provide training or behavioral support for anxious or reactive pets, though this may require advance discussion with staff.

If your pet has medical needs—such as medication administration, special diets, or mobility assistance—mention this when you book. The facility can tell you whether they can accommodate those needs and whether there are additional fees. Some pets benefit from extra attention or a quieter space; staff can often arrange this if you ask in advance.

Location and hours

Isle of Paws is located in Charleston and operates year-round. Hours vary by season and day of the week, so confirm their schedule before you visit or call to book. The facility typically has extended hours during peak travel seasons to accommodate drop-offs and pickups.

If you are planning a trip, check their website or call ahead to confirm availability and hours. Some facilities close on certain holidays or have reduced staffing on weekends, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I board a cat and dog together?

Cats and dogs are typically housed in separate areas to reduce stress and prevent conflict. If you have both pets, ask whether the facility can keep them in nearby spaces so they feel less isolated. Some facilities allow cats and dogs to interact if they are already bonded, but this is decided on a case-by-case basis.

What happens if my pet gets sick or injured during their stay?

Staff members monitor pets throughout the day and night and watch for signs of illness or injury. Ask the facility which veterinarian they contact in an emergency and whether you are responsible for emergency care costs. Get this information in writing before you drop off your pet so there are no surprises.

Do I need to provide my pet's food, or can the facility supply it?

You can bring your pet's regular food, or the facility can provide standard kibble. If your pet has dietary restrictions or a sensitive stomach, bringing your own food is usually the safest option. Let staff know about any food allergies or preferences when you book.

How far in advance should I book for holiday travel?

Holiday periods fill quickly—often weeks in advance. If you are traveling during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or summer vacation, contact the facility at least four to six weeks ahead. Calling early gives you the best chance of securing your preferred dates.

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

Many pets feel anxious during their first stay. Bring a familiar toy or blanket, and let staff know about your pet's temperament. Some facilities offer a short trial visit or daycare session before an overnight stay so your pet can adjust to the space and the people caring for them.