Southport Kennel Co: Boarding and Daycare for Dogs in Coastal South Carolina

What Southport Kennel Co offers

Southport Kennel Co is a dog boarding and daycare facility located in Southport, North Carolina, just across the state line from coastal South Carolina. The kennel operates as a full-service facility for dogs, offering overnight boarding, day care, and grooming services. If you're traveling from the Lowcountry or planning a trip and need somewhere to leave your dog, Southport Kennel Co sits close enough to make it a practical option for pet owners in the Charleston area and surrounding communities.

The facility houses dogs in individual kennels and also offers play areas where dogs can socialize during their stay. Boarding rates and specific amenities vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose—standard kennels, larger runs, or climate-controlled spaces. The kennel also provides grooming services, which some owners use in combination with boarding to have their dog cleaned up before pickup.

Key Takeaways

• Southport Kennel Co is located in Southport, North Carolina, making it accessible for pet owners in coastal South Carolina who need boarding or daycare services.
• The facility offers overnight boarding, day care, and grooming services with different accommodation options depending on your dog's needs and your budget.
• Dogs have access to play areas and socialization opportunities during their stay, not just individual kennel time.
• You will need to provide vaccination records and information about your dog's behavior and dietary needs when you book.
• Rates and availability change seasonally, especially during summer vacation periods and holidays, so contacting the facility directly is necessary to confirm pricing and reserve space.

How to book boarding or daycare

Contact Southport Kennel Co directly by phone or visit in person to discuss your dog's needs and check availability. The facility will ask about your dog's age, size, temperament, and any special dietary or medical requirements. You'll need to provide proof of current vaccinations, typically rabies and DHPP (distemper/parvovirus), before your dog can stay.

Rates depend on the length of stay, the type of accommodation, and whether you add grooming services. Ask about their current pricing when you call, as costs vary by season. Many kennels offer discounts for extended stays or for regular customers, so mention if you plan to use the facility multiple times.

What to bring and prepare

Pack your dog's regular food if they eat a special diet or if you prefer not to switch brands during their stay. Bring any medications your dog takes, along with clear instructions on dosage and timing. Include a familiar toy or blanket if your dog has separation anxiety—some kennels allow comfort items, though policies vary.

Write down your dog's routine, including feeding times, any behavioral quirks, and what commands they respond to. Let the staff know if your dog has never been boarded before or has had negative experiences in kennels. This information helps the kennel staff keep your dog calm and comfortable while you're away.

Vaccination and health requirements

Southport Kennel Co requires proof of current rabies vaccination and DHPP (the combination vaccine for distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza). These are standard requirements at nearly all boarding facilities because they prevent the spread of contagious diseases in a group setting. Your veterinarian can provide vaccination records, and many vets can email or fax them directly to the kennel.

If your dog is due for vaccines or if records are outdated, schedule a vet visit before your boarding date. Some facilities will not board dogs without current records, and others may require a health certificate from your vet if your dog has a chronic condition or takes medication. Call ahead to confirm what documentation the kennel needs.

Pickup and drop-off logistics

Confirm the facility's hours for drop-off and pickup when you make your reservation. Most kennels have set times—for example, drop-off in the morning and pickup in the afternoon or evening—so plan your travel accordingly. If you need early drop-off or late pickup, ask whether that's possible and whether there's an additional fee.

Arrive a few minutes early on drop-off day so you have time to complete paperwork and brief the staff about your dog. On pickup day, expect to pay your bill and receive any grooming or additional services you ordered. Ask the staff how your dog behaved during the stay—this information is useful if you board regularly and want to track your dog's comfort level.

Alternatives if Southport Kennel Co is full

If Southport Kennel Co doesn't have availability, several other boarding options exist in the Lowcountry. Charleston and surrounding areas have independent kennels, veterinary clinics that offer boarding, and pet-sitting services that care for dogs in their own homes. Some pet sitters will visit your house multiple times a day to feed, walk, and play with your dog while you travel, which can be less stressful for anxious dogs than a kennel environment.

Ask your veterinarian for recommendations, or search online reviews for facilities near you. If you're booking during a busy season—summer vacation, holidays, or special events—reserve space several weeks in advance. Many facilities fill up quickly during peak travel times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, especially during summer and holiday periods. Call Southport Kennel Co as soon as you know your travel dates to check availability and reserve space. Last-minute bookings may not be possible if the facility is full.

What if my dog has never been boarded before?

Tell the kennel staff this when you book. They can often accommodate nervous dogs by placing them in a quieter area or allowing shorter initial stays so your dog can adjust. Bring a familiar toy or blanket if the facility allows it, and ask staff for updates during your dog's stay.

Can I visit my dog while they're boarding?

Policies vary by facility. Some kennels allow brief visits, while others discourage them because it can upset dogs when owners leave again. Ask Southport Kennel Co about their visitation policy when you call to book.

What happens if my dog gets sick while boarding?

Most kennels have a relationship with a local veterinarian and will seek emergency care if your dog becomes ill. You'll be contacted immediately, and you'll be responsible for veterinary bills. Make sure the kennel has your phone number and the name of your regular vet.

Are there extra charges for grooming or special services?

Yes. Grooming, special diets, and medication administration typically cost extra. Ask for a complete price breakdown when you book so there are no surprises when you pick up your dog.