Pet Boarding

In order to make the boarding check in easier for new clients, you can find boarding forms and a new client form on the Client Forms page. Please provide both forms and proof of vaccine history 24 hours prior to your boarding stay. 

Please note that if your pet is receiving medications during their stay, we require that all medications are in the original packaging with clear instructions.  

 

FAQs 

What are your boarding requirements? 

  • Dogs are required to have rabies, distemper, bordetella, leptospirosis, canine influenza (H3N8/H3N2) vaccinations. In addition to the vaccines, we also require a negative fecal test every 6 months.
  • Cats need rabies and feline distemper vaccines. They also need to have a negative FIV/Leukemia test and negative fecal test every 6 months 

 

To protect your pet and others, all primary vaccines must be completed 10 days prior to boarding stay and boosters must be completed 5 days prior to boarding stay. 

Proof of vaccines will be required before completing a boarding reservation.  


Can I bring my pet's own food? 

Yes!  

Please make sure meals are measured in individually sealed plastic bag. 

We feed Purina EN as our house diet; it is available in dry kibble. Additionally, we offer Purina Savor in can pate.  

 

Can I bring my pet's personal items? 

Absolutely! 

We want your pet’s stay to feel like your second home. We will provide soft bedding and cots for all the dogs and cats. Extra blankets are provided so that every pet can rest comfortably. For your pet’s safety, no raw hide, please.  

 

When can I check in and pick up my pet? 

In order to decrease the waiting time, check in times will be scheduled Monday through Saturday.  

Pets can arrive and be picked up:  

  • Monday-Friday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm 
  • Saturday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm 
  • Sunday: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm (pick up only on Sundays) 

 

What can I expect during the boarding check in? 

We gather information about current medications, feeding routine, medical history and answer any concerns you may have.  

 

What additional services can be provided during my stay? 

Please note there is an additional charge for these services.  

 

Canine Bath & Nail Trim 

Canine baths are offered and include a nail trim.  

We do not offer feline bathing at this time. We are more than happy to trim your cat's nails during their stay. 
 
Available Services
  • For our feline friends boarding here, we offer spacious kitty condos and access to our sunroom with prime bird watching opportunities.   

    The feline boarding area is separated from the canine boarding area so that they aren't stressed out by barking pups. Additionally, we use Feliway and calming background music to keep the cats stress-free.... Read more

  • If you have to be away and cannot take your companion with you, we are happy to care for them in our climate controlled boarding facilities. We have a variety of housing options to suit all types of pets and really strive to make sure they are comfortable, happy, and well cared for while you are away.

    Ask a staff member for a tour and make sure your pets are up to date on their vaccinations, so you can sneak away for those last minute weekend outings.... Read more

  • Hi, everyone! Welcome to the boarding center at VCA Merrimac My name is Pocahontas and I'm a regular here so let me show you around I'm super friendly and I love to play! I can't wait to meet new friends so tell your human to call my human assistants at (757) 253-0812 to schedule a stay!... Read more