Gibson Kennels: Boarding and Care for Dogs in South Carolina

What Gibson Kennels Offers

Gibson 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 where owners can leave their dogs while traveling, working, or managing other commitments. The facility houses dogs in individual kennels and offers supervised time, feeding, and basic care during the owner's absence.

The kennel serves as an alternative to leaving a dog at home alone or relying on informal pet-sitting arrangements. Unlike a pet sitter who visits your home, Gibson Kennels provides a facility-based environment where your dog stays overnight or during the day with staff present.

Key Takeaways

• Gibson Kennels provides overnight boarding, daycare, and grooming services for dogs at a physical facility rather than in-home care.
• The kennel houses dogs in individual kennels and includes feeding and supervised time as part of standard boarding.
• Owners should contact the facility directly to learn about current rates, availability, hours of operation, and any requirements for their dog's stay.
• Boarding facilities like Gibson Kennels require vaccination records and health information before accepting a dog, so gather these documents before calling.
• Daycare and overnight boarding serve different needs—daycare works for shorter absences during business hours, while overnight boarding covers extended trips or overnight commitments.

Boarding Versus Daycare at a Kennel

Overnight boarding means your dog stays at the facility for one or more nights. This option works for trips out of town, overnight work shifts, or any situation where your dog cannot stay home alone. The kennel provides a bed, food, water, and supervised time in a controlled environment.

Daycare is a shorter-term option where you drop your dog off during business hours and pick them up the same day. This suits owners who work full-time, have appointments during the day, or need a few hours of supervised care. Daycare rates are typically lower than overnight boarding because the facility does not provide overnight housing or feeding.

Some owners use both services depending on the situation—daycare for a regular work week and overnight boarding for vacations or longer absences.

What to Bring and Prepare

Before your dog's first stay, contact Gibson Kennels to ask what you need to bring. Most kennels require vaccination records, especially proof of current rabies and DHPP (distemper) vaccines. Some facilities also ask for proof of a recent negative heartworm test or current heartworm prevention medication.

Bring your dog's regular food if the kennel does not provide it, or confirm in advance that they can feed the brand you use. Pack any medications your dog takes, clearly labeled with your dog's name, dosage, and instructions. Include a collar and leash, and consider bringing a familiar toy or blanket to reduce stress during the stay.

Write down your dog's feeding schedule, any behavioral notes (such as anxiety or aggression toward other dogs), and emergency contact information. The more detail you provide, the better the staff can care for your dog.

Health Requirements and Vaccination Records

South Carolina does not have a statewide law requiring kennels to verify vaccinations, but most private boarding facilities do so as a safety measure. Rabies vaccination is the most commonly required record because it protects both your dog and the staff. DHPP (which covers distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza) is also standard at most facilities.

Call Gibson Kennels directly to ask which vaccines they require and whether they need original records, copies, or a letter from your veterinarian. Some facilities accept records from your vet's office via email or fax if you cannot bring them in person. If your dog's vaccines are not current, your veterinarian can update them before your boarding date.

Heartworm prevention is less commonly required but increasingly requested, especially in South Carolina where heartworm is common. Ask whether the kennel needs proof of current prevention or a recent negative test.

Grooming Services at the Facility

Many kennels, including boarding facilities, offer grooming as an add-on service. This can be convenient if you want your dog bathed, brushed, or trimmed during their stay. Grooming services typically cost extra and may need to be scheduled in advance, especially during busy seasons.

Ask Gibson Kennels whether grooming is available, what services they offer (bath only, full groom, nail trim, etc.), and whether they can accommodate your dog's coat type and size. Some facilities have in-house groomers; others contract with a groomer who visits on certain days. Confirm the cost and how it will be added to your boarding bill.

Contacting Gibson Kennels and Planning Your Stay

To learn about rates, availability, and specific policies, contact Gibson Kennels directly by phone or visit in person if possible. Ask about their hours of operation, drop-off and pick-up times, and whether they have availability for your intended dates. Boarding facilities often fill up during holidays and summer vacation, so book early if you need care during peak times.

Confirm the total cost, including any fees for daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, or medication administration. Ask whether they offer discounts for multiple-day stays or regular customers. Understand their cancellation policy in case your plans change.

Visit the facility before your dog's first stay if possible. This lets you see where your dog will be housed, meet the staff, and ask questions in person. Your dog may also feel less anxious on the first day if they have seen the space before.

Alternatives to Kennel Boarding

If kennel boarding does not work for your situation, other options exist. In-home pet sitters visit your house to feed, walk, and spend time with your dog while you are away. This keeps your dog in a familiar environment and may reduce stress, though it costs more than kennel boarding and requires trusting someone with house keys.

Dog walkers provide midday exercise and bathroom breaks for dogs whose owners work long hours, without overnight care. Friends or family members can also watch your dog, though this depends on availability and your comfort level.

Some owners use a combination—for example, a pet sitter for short trips and a kennel for longer vacations. Choose based on your dog's temperament, your budget, and how long you need care.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does overnight boarding cost at a kennel?

Rates vary by facility, location, and dog size. Contact Gibson Kennels directly for their current pricing. Most South Carolina kennels charge between a set amount per night, with discounts sometimes available for longer stays or multiple dogs.

Can I board my dog if they have not been vaccinated?

Most kennels will not accept unvaccinated dogs because of disease risk to other animals. If your dog's vaccines are not current, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian before your boarding date. Some vets can see you quickly if you explain the timing.

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

Ask Gibson Kennels in advance what their emergency protocol is. Most facilities have a relationship with a local veterinary clinic and will contact your emergency vet or their own if your dog needs care. You will be responsible for veterinary bills. Provide your vet's contact information and authorize emergency treatment in writing before drop-off.

Do I need to bring my dog's food, or does the kennel provide it?

This varies by facility. Some kennels provide standard dog food; others ask you to bring your dog's regular brand. Ask Gibson Kennels what they offer and whether you should bring food from home. If you do bring food, label it clearly with your dog's name and feeding instructions.

Can I visit my dog while they are boarding?

Policies differ. Some kennels allow brief visits; others prefer not to because it can upset dogs when owners leave again. Ask Gibson Kennels about their visitation policy before your dog's stay. If visits are allowed, ask when and for how long.