Foolish Heart Kennels: Boarding and Care for Dogs in South Carolina
What Foolish Heart Kennels offers
Foolish Heart Kennels is a dog boarding facility in South Carolina that provides overnight care, daycare, and grooming services for dogs. The kennel operates as a private business rather than a shelter or rescue, meaning owners pay directly for services rendered. The facility focuses on dogs of all sizes and temperaments, with staff trained to handle animals with behavioral needs or medical requirements.
The kennel's core service is boarding—keeping your dog overnight or for multiple days while you travel, work extended hours, or handle personal matters. Daycare is available for owners who need daytime supervision but return home in the evening. Grooming services round out the offerings, though grooming availability and pricing vary by season and staff capacity.
Key Takeaways
- Foolish Heart Kennels boards dogs overnight and offers daycare for owners who need daytime supervision only.
- The facility provides grooming services alongside boarding, though availability depends on current staff and season.
- You will need to provide your dog's vaccination records, feeding instructions, and any medications before drop-off.
- Rates vary based on the length of stay, your dog's size, and any special services like grooming or medication administration.
- Reservations should be made in advance, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons when availability fills quickly.
How to prepare your dog for boarding
Before your first visit, contact Foolish Heart Kennels directly to discuss your dog's age, size, temperament, and any behavioral or medical concerns. Staff will ask about your dog's diet, exercise needs, and whether it takes medication. Bring this information in writing on drop-off day so nothing is missed during the handoff.
Pack your dog's regular food in a sealed container labeled with your name and your dog's name—the kennel will not substitute brands without your permission. Include any medications in their original bottles with clear dosing instructions. Bring vaccination records showing current rabies, DHPP (distemper/parvovirus), and any other vaccines the facility requires. Many kennels ask for proof of these within the past year.
If your dog has anxiety, aggression, or medical conditions, tell staff before drop-off. Some dogs do better with a familiar toy or blanket from home. Ask whether the kennel allows you to leave these items, as policies vary. Arrive early on your first visit so your dog has time to acclimate and staff can observe its behavior in the facility.
Pricing and payment
Foolish Heart Kennels charges by the night for boarding, with rates that typically increase for larger dogs or dogs requiring special handling. Daycare is usually priced hourly or as a daily flat rate, lower than overnight boarding. Grooming adds to the total cost and may be charged separately or bundled with boarding packages.
Contact the kennel directly for current pricing, as rates change based on season, demand, and the services you request. Many kennels offer discounts for extended stays or for customers who board regularly. Ask whether payment is due at drop-off or pickup, and what payment methods the facility accepts—most take cash, card, or check.
What to expect during your dog's stay
Dogs at Foolish Heart Kennels spend time in individual kennels or runs, with scheduled outdoor time for exercise and bathroom breaks. The facility typically provides water and food according to your instructions. Staff monitor dogs for signs of stress, illness, or injury and contact you if problems arise during your absence.
The kennel environment is different from home, and some dogs experience stress or behavioral changes during boarding. This is normal and usually resolves quickly. Staff are trained to handle anxious or reactive dogs, but they will contact you if your dog refuses to eat, becomes ill, or shows severe distress. Ask the kennel about their protocol for emergencies and whether they have a veterinarian on call.
Cancellation and pickup policies
Cancellation policies vary by kennel. Most require notice—often 24 to 48 hours—to avoid being charged for the full stay. If you must cancel, contact Foolish Heart Kennels as soon as possible to learn what refund or credit you may receive. Holiday periods often have stricter cancellation terms because demand is high.
Pickup time is usually set when you book. Late pickups may incur additional charges, often calculated hourly. Confirm the kennel's hours and whether they offer early morning or evening pickup on your return date. If you cannot pick up your dog yourself, ask whether the kennel allows a trusted person to collect your dog on your behalf and what authorization they need.
Finding Foolish Heart Kennels' location and hours
Foolish Heart Kennels operates at a physical location in South Carolina. To find the exact address, phone number, and hours, search online for "Foolish Heart Kennels" plus your city or region, or call local veterinary clinics—they often have referral lists for boarding facilities. The kennel's website or social media pages will show current hours, holiday closures, and whether they are accepting new boarders.
Many kennels close or reduce hours on major holidays, so plan ahead if you need boarding around Thanksgiving, Christmas, or summer vacation. Call ahead to confirm availability before making travel plans. Some facilities require a site visit before accepting your dog, so budget time for an initial tour and consultation.
Questions to ask before booking
Before committing to Foolish Heart Kennels, ask whether staff are trained in first aid and CPR for dogs. Find out what happens if your dog becomes ill or injured—will they contact your veterinarian, or will you be called to make that decision? Ask about their vaccination requirements and whether they accept dogs with behavioral issues or medical conditions.
Inquire about the kennel's cleaning and sanitation practices, especially if your dog has a compromised immune system or skin condition. Ask how often dogs are let outside, whether they have access to shade and water at all times, and whether they offer individual attention or play time. Request references from other dog owners who have used the facility, or read online reviews to understand what past customers experienced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring my dog's vaccination records?
Yes. Most kennels require proof of current rabies and DHPP vaccines, usually within the past year. Bring original records or a letter from your veterinarian. Without these, the kennel may refuse to board your dog to prevent disease spread among the animals in their care.
What if my dog has separation anxiety?
Tell Foolish Heart Kennels about this before booking. Some facilities have experience with anxious dogs and can provide extra attention or a quieter space. Others may decline to board dogs with severe anxiety. Staff can discuss your dog's specific needs and whether they can accommodate them.
Can I bring my dog's own food?
Yes, and most kennels prefer it. Bring your dog's regular food in a labeled container with clear feeding instructions. Do not switch brands suddenly, as this can upset your dog's stomach. If you want the kennel to feed something different, discuss this in advance.
What happens if my dog gets sick while boarding?
The kennel will contact you immediately. Ask before booking whether they will take your dog to a veterinarian on your behalf or wait for your authorization. Understand that emergency veterinary care is your financial responsibility, so consider pet insurance or ask about the kennel's emergency protocols.
How far in advance should I book?
Book as early as possible, especially for holidays, summer vacation, or weekends. Many kennels fill up weeks in advance during peak travel seasons. Booking early also gives you time to visit the facility and prepare your dog for the experience.