Where to Board Your Dog in Myrtle Beach

What dog boarding means and what to expect

Dog boarding is overnight or multi-day care where your dog stays at a facility, kennel, or someone's home while you travel or are away. Unlike pet sitting, where a caregiver visits your home, boarding means your dog lives somewhere else for the duration of your trip. Most boarding facilities in Myrtle Beach operate year-round, though rates and availability shift with the tourist season—summer and holidays book up faster than winter weekdays.

When you board your dog, the facility typically provides a sleeping space, meals, water, and some level of exercise or play. Some places offer basic kennels with outdoor time; others provide climate-controlled suites, group play areas, or webcam access so you can watch your dog during the day. The cost varies widely depending on the facility's amenities, your dog's size, and how long you need care. A single night at a basic kennel might run $25 to $40, while a premium facility with play groups and individual attention could charge $60 to $100 or more per night.

Key Takeaways

• Boarding facilities in Myrtle Beach range from basic outdoor kennels to luxury suites with climate control and group play, and prices reflect those differences.
• Most facilities require proof of current vaccinations—especially rabies and DHPP—before your dog can stay, so contact them at least two weeks before your trip.
• Summer and holiday weeks fill up quickly in Myrtle Beach, so book early if you need care during peak tourist season.
• Many facilities offer a meet-and-greet visit before your first stay so your dog can see the space and staff can note any behavioral or health concerns.
• Ask whether the facility has a veterinarian on call or nearby, and get the name and phone number in case your dog needs emergency care while you are away.

Finding boarding facilities in Myrtle Beach

The Myrtle Beach area has several established boarding kennels and pet care businesses. Pawsitive Paws, located on North Kings Highway, operates a kennel with indoor and outdoor runs, and offers group play time for dogs that are comfortable with other animals. Coastal Pet Resort, also in the Myrtle Beach area, provides climate-controlled suites and webcam monitoring so owners can check in on their dogs remotely. Paws & Claws Boarding offers both kennel and suite options depending on your budget and your dog's needs.

Beyond established kennels, some local pet sitters and dog walkers also offer boarding in their homes or have partnerships with facilities. Searching "dog boarding Myrtle Beach" or "kennels near me" will show current options, but calling ahead is essential—facilities often have limited space, especially during summer months and around holidays. Ask whether they have openings for your dates, what their vaccination requirements are, and whether they offer a tour or meet-and-greet before your dog's stay.

Vaccination and health requirements

Nearly all boarding facilities in Myrtle Beach require proof of current vaccinations before your dog can stay. The most common requirement is rabies vaccination, which must be current and documented. Many facilities also require DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza), which is typically given annually or every three years depending on the vaccine type. Some facilities ask for proof of bordetella (kennel cough vaccine), especially if your dog will be in group play areas.

Contact your veterinarian at least two weeks before your boarding dates to confirm your dog's vaccinations are current and to get written proof. Bring those records with you when you drop your dog off, or email them to the facility in advance. If your dog is on medication—for anxiety, allergies, or a chronic condition—bring enough for the entire stay in the original labeled bottle, and provide clear written instructions on dosage and timing. Let the facility know about any behavioral quirks, dietary sensitivities, or health issues so staff can watch for problems.

What to bring and how to prepare your dog

Pack your dog's regular food in a sealed container or bring bags from home, since switching food suddenly can upset their stomach. Include any treats your dog is used to, medications in original bottles with clear labels, and a favorite toy or blanket that smells like home—familiar items can help reduce stress. Bring a recent photo of your dog in case they escape or get lost, and leave your cell phone number and an emergency contact number with the facility.

If your dog has never been boarded before, ask the facility whether you can visit beforehand so your dog can see the space and meet the staff. A short visit or a trial overnight stay can help your dog adjust. Some dogs experience stress or anxiety in new environments, so mention any signs of nervousness to the facility—they may be able to place your dog in a quieter area or offer extra attention. Avoid making a big fuss when you drop off or pick up your dog, as emotional goodbyes can increase anxiety.

Costs and what affects the price

Boarding costs in Myrtle Beach depend on several factors: the facility's amenities, your dog's size, the length of stay, and the season. A basic outdoor kennel with twice-daily feeding and outdoor time might cost $25 to $40 per night for a small dog, while a large dog in the same facility could run $35 to $50 per night. Climate-controlled suites, group play time, and individual attention typically add $20 to $40 per night. Premium facilities with webcam access, training sessions, or grooming services may charge $75 to $150 or more per night.

Myrtle Beach's peak season—May through August, plus Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks—often means higher rates and limited availability. Booking during slower months (January through April, September through November) can save money and may provide a spot. Ask whether the facility offers discounts for longer stays, multiple dogs, or off-season bookings. Some facilities charge extra for special services like medication administration, grooming, or behavioral monitoring, so clarify what is included in the base rate before you book.

Emergency care and what happens if your dog gets sick

Before you board your dog, ask the facility whether they have a veterinarian on staff or on call, and get the name and phone number of their emergency vet clinic. Most facilities in Myrtle Beach work with local emergency clinics like Myrtle Beach Animal Care Hospital or Coastal Carolina Veterinary Specialists if your dog needs urgent care. Ask what their policy is: do they contact you first, or do they take your dog to the vet and bill you later? Make sure you understand the costs and your liability.

Leave clear instructions about what to do if your dog shows signs of illness or injury—vomiting, diarrhea, limping, excessive panting, or behavioral changes. Provide the name and number of your regular veterinarian so the facility can call with questions. Some facilities require you to sign a form authorizing emergency veterinary care if they cannot reach you. Review this carefully and make sure your emergency contact information is correct and that someone you trust can make decisions on your behalf if you are unreachable.

Choosing between boarding and other options

Boarding is one option for pet care while you travel, but it is not the only one. Pet sitting—where someone visits your home to feed, walk, and spend time with your dog—can be less stressful for dogs who are anxious in new environments or who have medical needs. In-home boarding, where a caregiver watches your dog at their home, offers a middle ground: your dog is in a home setting rather than a kennel, but not in their own home. Dog walking services can supplement boarding if you want your dog to get extra exercise during a longer stay.

Consider your dog's temperament, age, and health when deciding. Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with anxiety or medical conditions may do better with pet sitting or in-home boarding. Dogs that are social and enjoy other animals often thrive in group play environments at boarding facilities. If you have multiple dogs, ask whether the facility can keep them together or whether they prefer to separate them. Your choice depends on your dog's needs, your budget, and how long you will be away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book boarding in advance?

Yes, especially during summer and holidays. Most facilities fill up weeks or months ahead during peak season. Booking at least two to four weeks early gives you the best chance of getting your preferred dates and facility. Off-season bookings (winter and early spring) often have more availability and may offer lower rates.

What if my dog has never been boarded before?

Ask the facility whether you can do a meet-and-greet or a trial overnight stay. Many facilities offer this so your dog can adjust to the space and staff. Bring a familiar toy or blanket, and avoid making a big emotional goodbye—keeping drop-off calm can help reduce stress.

Can I visit my dog while they are boarding?

Most facilities discourage visits during the stay because it can upset the dog when you leave again. However, many now offer webcam access so you can watch your dog during the day. Ask about this option when you book, and check whether there is an extra fee.

What happens if my dog does not get along with other dogs?

Tell the facility about your dog's temperament during the booking call or meet-and-greet. They can place your dog in a kennel without group play, or schedule individual exercise time instead. Some facilities have separate areas for dogs that need to be alone.

How much should I tip the boarding staff?

Tipping is not required, but many owners give $5 to $20 depending on the length of stay and the level of care. If your dog had a great experience or the staff went above and beyond, a tip is a nice way to show appreciation.