Pawliday Inn
Handing your dog over to someone else, even for a weekend, takes trust. Websites all look friendly, so the real test is what you see and hear when you visit and ask questions. This checklist will help you choose dog boarding in Houston with confidence, whether you end up with us or somewhere else. For each point, we have noted how Pawliday Inn handles it so you can compare.
Before you visit: decide what matters most
Every dog is different. Before you start calling around, jot down your dog's needs:
- Their size, energy level and how they do with other dogs
- Any medication, diet or health issues
- Behavior quirks, such as fear of storms, escape attempts or separation anxiety
- How long you will be away, and whether it is a holiday
- How far you are willing to drive for drop off and pick up
That list tells you which questions matter most on a tour. If you are still deciding whether boarding is right at all, our comparison of dog boarding and a pet sitter may help.
The checklist: how to choose dog boarding in Houston
1. Who is there overnight?
This is the most important question, and it is worth asking directly. Some facilities have staff on site through the night. Others lock up after closing and check in the next morning. Neither answer is hidden if you ask, but you need to know which one you are getting.
At Pawliday Inn: we are staffed 24/7.
2. What does a normal day look like?
Ask how often dogs go outside, when they eat, and whether they get play time or stay in a kennel most of the day. A clear, specific answer is a good sign. A vague one is worth a follow-up question.
At Pawliday Inn: overnight guests get breakfast and dinner, three scheduled potty breaks a day separate from daycare, and free yard play.
3. What vaccines and prevention do they require?
A facility that asks for very little may be easier to book, but it also means the other dogs may not be protected. Look for clear rules on core vaccines and parasite prevention, and for a policy on turning away sick dogs.
At Pawliday Inn: current Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccinations, plus regular flea, tick and intestinal parasite prevention. We may refuse service to pets that do not meet requirements or that show signs of illness or a contagious condition. Read more about the vaccines required for boarding and daycare.
4. Do they ask about your dog's behavior?
A good facility wants to know about your dog before they arrive. If nobody asks about aggression, fear or escape attempts, that is worth noticing.
At Pawliday Inn: we ask owners to disclose known behavior, including aggression, fearfulness, resource guarding, separation anxiety, escape tendencies, and prior bites or injuries.
5. Can you bring things from home?
Familiar food and a blanket that smells like home help many dogs settle. Ask what you can bring.
At Pawliday Inn: we encourage you to bring your dog's own food, toys and blankets. Our packing list for dog boarding covers the details.
6. Is the space the right size?
Ask about kennel sizes and which one your dog would be in. A big dog in a small space is uncomfortable, and a small dog can feel lost in a huge one.
At Pawliday Inn: small, medium and large kennels.
7. What are the booking and cancellation rules?
Read the fine print before you need it. Ask about deposits, cancellation windows, holiday rules, minimum stays and late pick up fees.
At Pawliday Inn:
| Policy | Details |
|---|---|
| Deposit | Required for boarding, with the balance at pick up |
| Standard cancellation | More than 48 hours ahead for a deposit refund |
| Holiday reservations | Seven-day cancellation window and a deposit for the full stay |
| Weekends | Two-night minimum |
| Late pick up | A fee applies after 6:30 p.m. |
A card on file is required for all bookings. Full details are on our policies page.
8. Do the hours work for your trip?
Check drop off and pick up hours against your flight times, especially for weekends.
At Pawliday Inn: boarding is available seven days a week. Hours are Monday to Friday 7:00 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, and Sunday by appointment.
9. Is the location practical?
Houston is big, and traffic can turn a short drive into a long one. A facility on your side of town makes drop off before an early flight much easier.
At Pawliday Inn: we are at 11206 Cedarhurst Dr in southwest Houston, near Meyerland, Westbury, Willow Meadows and Brays Oaks, with easy access from the South Loop, US-90A South Main, Fondren and Hillcroft.
Things to notice on a tour
Beyond the answers, trust your senses:
- Smell. Some dog smell is normal. A strong, lingering odor is not.
- Sound. Barking happens. Constant, frantic barking may mean stressed dogs.
- Staff. Do they seem to know the dogs? Do they answer questions easily?
- Security. Look for secure gates and double doors where dogs could slip out.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important question to ask a boarding facility?
Ask who is with the dogs overnight. At Pawliday Inn, the answer is staff on site 24/7.
Should I do a trial stay first?
A short stay before a long trip can help your dog get used to a new place. Daycare is another way to let your dog get to know the building and team.
How far ahead should I book?
As early as you can, and especially for holidays. Read our guide to booking holiday dog boarding early.
Where can I see prices?
Current rates are on our homepage. Rates change, so we keep them in one place.