The Best Pet Daycares in Columbia, VA
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in Columbia is easier than ever. We’ve researched and curated the top 3 pet daycares based on quality of care, services offered, customer reviews, and safety standards. Whether you need daily daycare, boarding, grooming, or training services, these trusted facilities provide exceptional care for your beloved pets.
Happy Hounds Daycare & Boarding
Contact Information
1325 Scottsville Rd, Charlottesville, VA
(434) 284-2833
Services
About
Located in Charlottesville, just 22 miles from Columbia, Happy Hounds offers a large, climate-controlled indoor play area and secure outdoor yards. Their staff is trained in pet first aid and CPR, providing a safe and engaging environment with separate playgroups for different sizes and temperaments.
Ruffner's Boarding Kennel
Contact Information
3781 Red Hill Rd, Charlottesville, VA
(434) 293-4819
Services
About
A family-owned and operated facility located in Charlottesville, approximately 25 miles from Columbia. Ruffner's provides a home-away-from-home experience with spacious indoor/outdoor kennels and plenty of individual attention. They focus on personalized care and a comfortable, low-stress environment for pets.
Old Dominion Canine
Contact Information
1875 Jefferson Hwy, Palmyra, VA
(434) 589-9400
Services
About
Located in Palmyra, just 10 miles from Columbia, Old Dominion Canine is a premier facility featuring 10,000 sq ft of indoor play space and 1.5 acres of secured outdoor turf. They offer structured daycare with trained supervisors, luxury boarding suites, and a wide range of training programs.
Nearby Cities
Explore pet daycares in cities near Columbia, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the vaccination requirements for my dog to attend daycare in Columbia?
Most reputable daycares in Columbia and Fluvanna County require proof of up-to-date vaccinations for Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Some facilities may also recommend or require the Canine Influenza vaccine. It's best to contact the specific daycare for their complete list, as they will need to see records from your local veterinarian before your pet's first day.
How much does dog daycare typically cost in Columbia, VA?
In the Columbia area, you can expect to pay between $20 and $30 for a full day of daycare. Many facilities also offer half-day options for around $15 to $20. Multi-day packages or monthly memberships are often available at a discounted rate. Prices can vary based on the facility's amenities, so it's a good idea to call for specific quotes.
What should I bring for my pet's first day of daycare?
For a smooth first day, bring your dog on a secure leash and collar with ID tags. You should also provide your pet's food in pre-portioned bags if they will be there during a mealtime. While toys from home are often discouraged to prevent resource guarding, feel free to bring any required medication with clear instructions. Given Columbia's rural setting, some daycares have outdoor play areas, so discussing flea and tick prevention with the staff is also a good idea.
Do you offer services for pets other than dogs?
While dog daycare is the most common service in the area, a few facilities may offer limited cat boarding. However, dedicated daycare for cats, small mammals, or exotic pets is not widely available in Columbia itself. For these services, you may need to look at providers in larger nearby cities like Charlottesville. It's always best to call and inquire directly about your specific pet's needs.
How do you handle emergencies or need for veterinary care?
A trustworthy daycare in Columbia will have a clear emergency protocol. They will typically have a relationship with a local veterinary clinic, such as the Columbia Veterinary Clinic or an emergency hospital in Charlottesville for after-hours care. Upon enrollment, they will have you sign a release form authorizing emergency treatment and providing your preferred vet's contact information. Be sure to ask any potential daycare about their specific emergency plans during your tour.
Ready to Find Your Pet’s Perfect Daycare?
Contact any of these top-rated pet daycares directly to schedule a tour and give your furry friend the quality care and socialization they deserve in Columbia.