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What to Expect at Lakeside Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel in Myrtle Beach

Lakeside Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel serves pets in Myrtle Beach with veterinary care and overnight boarding

Lakeside Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel is a full-service veterinary practice located in Myrtle Beach that combines medical care for dogs and cats with on-site boarding facilities. The hospital handles routine wellness visits, vaccinations, dental work, and surgical procedures, while the kennel side allows pet owners to board their animals overnight or for extended stays. Both services operate from the same location, which means your pet's medical records stay in one place and staff familiar with your animal's health history can monitor them during boarding.

The facility is independently owned and staffed by veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Because boarding and veterinary services are under one roof, the hospital can observe boarding animals for signs of illness or injury and respond immediately if a health issue arises during a stay.

Key Takeaways

  • Lakeside Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel offers both routine and surgical veterinary care plus overnight and extended boarding for dogs and cats.
  • The combined facility means your pet's medical team can monitor them during boarding stays and respond quickly to any health concerns.
  • The hospital handles preventive care like vaccinations and dental cleanings, as well as spay and neuter procedures.
  • Boarding rates and availability vary by season and length of stay, so contacting the facility directly is necessary to check current pricing and reserve space.

Veterinary Services Available

The hospital side of Lakeside provides preventive care, diagnostics, and surgical services. Routine visits include physical exams, vaccination updates, parasite prevention, and microchipping. The facility also offers dental cleaning and extractions for pets with tooth disease or decay.

Surgical procedures include spay and neuter operations, mass removals, and other soft-tissue surgeries. The hospital has diagnostic equipment on-site, including digital radiography (X-rays) and laboratory capabilities, so many test results come back the same day rather than requiring a referral to an outside lab.

Emergency or after-hours care is not provided at this location. If your pet needs urgent care outside regular business hours, you will need to contact an emergency veterinary clinic in the Myrtle Beach area.

Boarding Facilities and What to Bring

The kennel accommodates dogs and cats in separate areas. Boarding stays range from overnight to multi-week arrangements, which is useful for pet owners traveling during the busy Myrtle Beach season or taking extended trips. The facility provides food, water, and shelter, though many owners bring their pet's own food to avoid digestive upset from a diet change.

When you board your pet, bring any medications your animal takes regularly, along with clear written instructions on dosage and timing. If your pet has behavioral quirks, anxiety, or special handling needs, tell staff in advance so they can prepare. Bring a familiar toy or blanket if it helps your pet feel more at home during the stay.

Vaccination records are required before boarding. The facility needs proof that your dog or cat is current on rabies vaccination and, for dogs, on bordetella (kennel cough) protection. This policy protects all animals in the kennel from contagious disease.

Location and Hours

Lakeside Animal Hospital & Boarding Kennel is located in Myrtle Beach. The facility operates during standard business hours, though exact hours and holiday schedules should be confirmed by calling ahead, as hours may vary seasonally or change without notice.

Parking is available on-site. The building is designed to accommodate both walk-in veterinary visits and boarding drop-offs and pickups, so you can complete both transactions in one trip if needed.

How to Schedule a Visit or Boarding Stay

To schedule a veterinary appointment, call the facility directly. New patients are usually accommodated, though during peak season (summer months and holidays) wait times for appointments may be longer. Have your pet's medical history and vaccination records available when you call, or let staff know if this is your pet's first visit to the hospital.

Boarding reservations should also be made by phone. Ask about current rates, which may differ based on the season and the length of your stay. Confirm the check-in and check-out times, cancellation policy, and any special services the facility offers (such as exercise time or grooming add-ons). Many facilities fill up during summer vacation season and holiday weekends, so booking in advance is wise.

What Happens During a Boarding Stay

When you drop off your pet, staff will review any medications, dietary needs, and behavioral notes you provide. They will also confirm emergency contact information and your preferred veterinarian if your pet needs medical attention during the stay. Your pet will be housed in a kennel or run appropriate to their size and temperament.

During the stay, animals receive food and water according to their normal schedule. Most facilities provide basic exercise and socialization, though the exact level of activity depends on your pet's age, health, and behavior. If your pet becomes ill or injured during boarding, the on-site veterinarian can examine and treat them immediately, which is a significant advantage of boarding at a facility with veterinary services.

When you pick up your pet, staff will give you a brief report on how the stay went. If any health or behavioral issues arose, the veterinarian may recommend follow-up care or discuss observations with you.

Cost and Payment

Pricing for veterinary services and boarding varies. Routine visits, vaccinations, and preventive care have standard fees that the hospital can quote over the phone. Surgical procedures, dental work, and diagnostic tests cost more and depend on the specific procedure and your pet's condition. Boarding rates depend on the animal's size, the length of stay, and the season.

Contact the facility directly for current pricing. Many veterinary practices accept cash, credit cards, and pet insurance. Some offer payment plans for larger procedures, though this varies by practice. Ask about these options when you call to schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I board my cat at Lakeside Animal Hospital?

Yes, the facility boards both dogs and cats in separate areas. Cats have their own space to reduce stress and prevent mixing with dogs. Bring your cat's regular food and any medications, and provide vaccination records showing current rabies protection.

What if my pet needs medication while boarding?

Bring all medications in their original labeled bottles with clear written instructions on dosage and timing. Staff will administer medications as directed. If your pet develops a new health issue during the stay and needs medication, the on-site veterinarian can prescribe and provide it.

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

The facility provides food, but many owners bring their pet's own food to avoid digestive upset. If you bring food, make sure it is clearly labeled with your pet's name and any special instructions. Ask staff whether they prefer you to bring food or if they have a preferred brand.

What happens if my pet gets sick during boarding?

The on-site veterinarian will examine your pet and provide treatment if needed. Staff will contact you to report the issue and discuss next steps. Because the veterinary team is right there, your pet can be seen immediately rather than waiting for transport to another clinic.

How far in advance should I book boarding?

During summer and holiday weekends, the facility often fills up weeks in advance. Booking at least two to three weeks ahead is recommended during peak season. Off-season bookings may have more flexibility, but calling ahead to confirm availability is always the safest approach.