Pawmetto Pet Inn: What to Know Before Boarding Your Pet

Pawmetto Pet Inn offers boarding, daycare, and grooming services in the Columbia area

Pawmetto Pet Inn is a pet boarding facility located in Columbia that takes dogs and cats for overnight stays, daytime care, and grooming. The facility operates as a private business—not a government program or nonprofit—and charges daily rates for its services. If you're looking for a place to leave your pet while you travel or work, Pawmetto can be one option to research alongside other local boarding facilities.

The facility has been operating in the Columbia area for years and serves pet owners across the Midlands. Like any boarding business, it has specific policies about what pets it accepts, how long stays can be, and what happens if your pet has medical or behavioral needs.

Key Takeaways

• Pawmetto Pet Inn boards dogs and cats overnight and offers daytime daycare for dogs in the Columbia area.
• The facility also provides grooming services, which may be added to a boarding stay or booked separately.
• Rates vary by pet size, length of stay, and services requested, so you'll need to contact the facility directly for current pricing.
• Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccinations and may have restrictions on aggressive behavior or untrained pets.
• Booking in advance—especially during holidays and summer travel season—increases the chance of securing your preferred dates.

What services Pawmetto Pet Inn provides

The facility offers three main services: overnight boarding, daytime daycare, and grooming. Overnight boarding means your pet stays at the facility while you're away, typically in a climate-controlled room or kennel. Daytime daycare is for pets whose owners work during the day or need a few hours of supervised care. Grooming services include baths, nail trims, and full grooming packages.

Dogs and cats are the primary animals accepted. The facility may have age restrictions for very young puppies or kittens, and some boarding facilities do not accept pets with certain medical conditions or behavioral issues. You'll need to ask directly about whether your specific pet can be accommodated.

How to contact Pawmetto Pet Inn and what information to have ready

To learn about availability, pricing, and policies, you'll contact the facility directly by phone or through their website. Have your pet's name, age, breed, and weight ready—boarding rates often depend on pet size. You'll also need to know your travel dates or the specific days you need daycare.

Most boarding facilities ask about your pet's medical history, current medications, dietary needs, and behavior around other animals. If your pet has anxiety, aggression, or special handling requirements, mention this upfront. The facility will let you know whether they can accommodate your pet's needs or whether you should look elsewhere.

Vaccination and health requirements

Nearly all boarding facilities in South Carolina require proof of current vaccinations before accepting a pet. For dogs, this typically means rabies, DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza), and sometimes bordetella (kennel cough). For cats, rabies and FVRCP (feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia) are standard.

You'll need to bring vaccination records or have your veterinarian send them directly to Pawmetto. Some facilities also require a health certificate from a vet dated within a certain timeframe—usually 10 to 14 days before boarding. If your pet is on medication, bring enough for the entire stay in the original labeled bottle, along with clear instructions on dosage and timing.

Pricing and booking your stay

Boarding rates at private facilities vary widely based on pet size, room type, and length of stay. Small dogs typically cost less than large dogs; cats may have a different rate than dogs. Some facilities offer discounts for longer stays or for customers who board regularly. Grooming services add to the total cost.

Rates change seasonally and may be higher during holidays, summer vacation, and school breaks when demand is highest. Contact the facility directly for current pricing, as rates are not always posted online. Many facilities require a deposit or payment in full at the time of booking, especially for holiday dates.

What to bring and what to expect on drop-off day

On the day you drop off your pet, bring vaccination records, any medications in original bottles with clear instructions, food your pet normally eats (if the facility doesn't provide it), and comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket. Some facilities ask you to bring a small amount of your own laundry—a shirt or blanket with your scent—to help anxious pets feel calmer.

Arrive during the facility's posted drop-off hours, which are usually in the morning or early afternoon. The staff will ask you to fill out a form with emergency contact information, your veterinarian's phone number, and any special instructions about your pet's behavior or care. Be honest about anxiety, aggression, or medical issues—this helps the staff keep your pet and other animals safe.

Picking up your pet and what happens after boarding

Pick-up times are usually scheduled in advance and may have specific windows—for example, between 4 and 6 p.m. on weekdays. Ask about the facility's policy if you need to pick up outside normal hours or if you're running late. Some facilities charge an additional fee for late pick-up.

When you arrive, the staff will give you a report on how your pet behaved, ate, and slept. They may mention any concerns—such as your pet not eating much or showing signs of stress. If your pet received grooming, you'll see the results at pick-up. Ask any questions about your pet's stay and whether the facility recommends anything for future visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book Pawmetto Pet Inn in advance?

Yes, especially during busy seasons like summer and holidays. Many boarding facilities fill up weeks ahead during peak travel times. Booking early increases your chances of getting your preferred dates and gives the facility time to discuss your pet's needs with you.

What if my pet has never been boarded before?

Tell the facility that your pet is new to boarding. Some facilities offer a trial day or shorter first stay to help your pet adjust. Bring comfort items and ask the staff for tips on easing separation anxiety. Your veterinarian can also suggest calming strategies before your pet's first stay.

Can I visit my pet while they're boarding?

Most boarding facilities do not allow visits during the stay, as it can upset pets and disrupt the facility's routine. Ask Pawmetto about their specific policy. Some facilities offer photo updates or video calls so you can see your pet while you're away.

What happens if my pet gets sick or injured during boarding?

Facilities typically have an emergency veterinarian on call or a relationship with a local emergency clinic. They will contact you immediately if your pet needs medical care. Make sure you provide a current phone number and authorize the facility to seek emergency treatment if you cannot be reached.

Are there alternatives if Pawmetto Pet Inn is fully booked?

Yes. Other boarding facilities in the Columbia area include private kennels, veterinary clinics that offer boarding, and pet sitters who care for pets in your home. You can also ask your veterinarian for recommendations or search online reviews to compare options in your area.