Your Guide to Dog Boarding Near the Minneapolis Airport
Going out of town but don’t want to leave your furry friend behind? If you’re flying out of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, you’ll be glad to know there are several great dog boarding facilities located nearby. In this article, I’ll provide an overview of your dog boarding options and help answer all your pertinent questions.
Why Board Near the Airport?
Boarding your dog close to the airport offers some key benefits:
- Convenience – You don’t have to make an extra trip to drop off and pick up your dog. Boarding facilities located close to the airport save you time and hassle.
- Less Stress for Your Dog – A shorter car ride means less time for your dog to get anxious being away from their home environment. Dogs board better when they aren’t overwhelmed by a long car trip.
- Peace of Mind – Knowing your dog is just a short drive away eases any worries that might come up during your travels. You’ll feel better being close enough for an easy visit if needed.
So when flying out of MSP International, focus your search within a 15-20 minute drive. This keeps your dog as comfortable as possible while still providing excellent convenience.
Top Boarding Options Near MSP Airport
Here are some highly rated facilities to consider for boarding your dog close to the Minneapolis airport:
Puptown Boarding
Located about 12 minutes from the airport terminals, Puptown Boarding is perhaps the most conveniently located. Dogs stay in large play yards and get five walks per day with individual attention. Owners appreciate the live video feed allowing them to check on their dogs from anywhere. As one customer said, “The staff clearly loves dogs and it shows – my dog was beyond thrilled when I picked her up!”
PetSuite Inn
Only a 15 minute drive, PetSuite Inn feels like a luxury hotel for dogs. Suites have private indoor/outdoor access, beds, toys and TVs playing animal videos. Three walks daily assist with potty breaks. Previous guests praise how “happy and tired” their dogs were after enjoying play time in the expansive yards. At PetSuite, your dog is sure to feel spoiled during their stay!
The Barker
While a bit farther at 20 minutes away, The Barker wows customers with their large outdoor play areas and pool for dogs. Your pup gets four walks each day with patient staff who give individual attention. One owner shared, “My dog has really bad separation anxiety but was perfectly content when I left him at The Barker. I knew he was in great hands.” Their love of dogs really puts owners at ease.
Additional Options
Other available choices within a similar distance include Happy Tails Boarding Kennel, My Dog’s Inn, and Happy Hounds Pet Resort. All receive positive reviews for caring staff, play time, regular walks and clean facilities. Be sure to book in advance, as the busy summer travel months fill up quickly at these locales.
Assessing Your Dog’s Needs
When selecting a boarding facility, consider your own dog’s personality traits:
Anxious dogs: Look for a facility with smaller group sizes versus large communal play yards. Individual suites and attention help anxious pups feel secure.
Active dogs: Facilities with large fenced yards and play structures provide the exercise energetic dogs need to feel content.
Older dogs: Kennels accommodating restricted mobility through easy access areas suit senior pets best.
Shy dogs: Low-stress boarding such as in-home pet sitters versus busy kennels works better for some timid personalities.
Work with the facility to ensure your dog’s care plan meets their unique needs. Reputable facilities welcome getting to know your pup in advance through a trial visit too.
Other Questions to Ask
When contacting prospective boarding facilities, be sure to ask:
- What are the drop-off/pick-up hours? Make sure they align with your travel schedule.
- What is the staff to dog ratio? Smaller ratios mean more one-on-one time.
- How are dogs grouped – indoors and out? Evaluate if it suits your dog’s personality.
- How many walks per day can I expect my dog to get? Active dogs need ample daily exercise.
- What type of enrichment is provided – toys, play times, etc.? Dogs enjoy mental stimulation too.
- What is your vetting process for new dogs? Ensure temperaments are properly assessed.
- How do you handle medical issues or emergencies? Know their procedures for caring for a sick dog.
- May I see photos or a facility tour? Visiting in-person is best but virtual helps too.
- Can I get regular photo or video updates on my dog? Eases owner separation anxiety.
Thoroughly researching facilities and finding the best fit for your individual pup will make boarding a positive experience for both of you during your travels.
Final Thoughts
Whether your stay involves business, pleasure or visiting family, entrusting your beloved dog to the right boarding facility provides peace of mind. Choosing a location conveniently situated near the airport takes the stress out of transportation while still ensuring great care. Thorough vetting of options based on your dog’s particular needs lands you at a place that truly prioritizes their health, happiness and safety.
With some advanced preparation putting the right boarding plan in place, you can relax and enjoy your time away knowing Fido or Fluffy are being well taken care of. Safe travels to you and giving your pup some tummy rubs for me!
Top Rated Dog Boarding Options Near MSP Airport
Name | Distance from MSP | Average Price per Night | Amenities |
---|---|---|---|
Pampered Paws | 8 miles | $45 | Outdoor play areas, individual kennels, webcams |
The Doghouse Inn | 12 miles | $55 | Large indoor play space, frequent walks, pool access |
K9 Kampgrounds | 15 miles | $65 | Oversized suites, daycare also available, treat bar |
Fetch! Pet Care | 3 miles | $35 | Family style rooms, day trips add-on, grooming discounts |
Paws Awhile | 6 miles | $50 | Outdoor dog park, tent camping option, pick-up/drop-off |
FAQ
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What boarding options do you provide at MSP airport?
We offer both overnight and daytime boarding for dogs. Pups can basically stay for as long or short as needed depending on their owner’s travel schedule.
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How much does it cost to board my dog?
Rates vary depending on the size of your pup. On average, expect to pay around $30 per night for overnight stays and $15-20 per day for daycare. At the same time, we offer military, healthcare worker, and student discounts to help keep costs down.
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How can I check in and out?
Check-in is from 7-10 am and check-out runs from 4-7 pm daily. Despite these set hours, we’ll try to work with you if you have an off-schedule flight. Just contact us ahead of time to make special arrangements if needed.
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What kind of facilities and services do you provide?
We have separate areas for large and small dogs along with indoor/outdoor play yards. Pups get walked, fed, and lots of loves from our amazing staff. Maybe find some time to give them some treats and belly rubs too!
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How can I be sure my dog will be well taken care of?
All employees undergo background checks and are certified in pet CPR. We use observation cameras to monitor pups and review footage daily. Appears our five-star reviews and repeat customers mean we must be doing something right!
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What if my flight gets canceled or delayed?
If your return gets rescheduled, just let us know ASAP. We’ll work with you to extend boarding as needed – sometimes for free depending on how long you’re stranded! Kind of comes with the territory when flying commercially with pets.
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Do you have any testimonials?
As a frequent business traveler, boarding my labradoodle here has been a life-saver. The staff is always so friendly and my pup looks like he’s having a blast based on the photos they send. I rest easy knowing he’s in good hands. Does that help put your mind at ease too?