The Best Pet Daycares in Islesford, ME
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in Islesford 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 Tails Doggy Daycare & Boarding
Contact Information
1237 State Highway 102, Bar Harbor, ME
(207) 288-7387
Services
About
A highly-rated, full-service facility offering spacious indoor and outdoor play areas with climate-controlled comfort. Staff are trained in pet first aid and provide personalized attention. Located in Bar Harbor, just a short ferry ride and drive from Islesford.
Acadia Canine Country Club
Contact Information
21 Eagle Lake Road, Southwest Harbor, ME
(207) 244-7100
Services
About
A premier facility featuring a large outdoor turf play yard and a dedicated swimming pond for water-loving dogs. They focus on safe, supervised play and enrichment. Located in Southwest Harbor on Mount Desert Island, approximately 12 miles from the Islesford ferry.
Paws Inn
Contact Information
15 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor, ME
(207) 288-7297
Services
About
A well-established downtown Bar Harbor business providing cage-free daycare and comfortable boarding suites. They offer webcam access for owners to check on their pets. Located in Bar Harbor, easily accessible from the ferry terminal and about 10 miles from Islesford.
Nearby Cities
Explore pet daycares in cities near Islesford, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific requirements for my pet to attend daycare in Islesford?
Given Islesford's small, close-knit community and the need to transport pets by boat to the mainland for many services, requirements are strict for everyone's safety. Your dog must be up-to-date on rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations. A negative annual fecal test is also required. Due to limited veterinary services on the island, proof from a licensed vet is mandatory. All dogs must be spayed or neutered if over 6 months old.
How much does pet daycare typically cost in Islesford, and are there package deals?
Given the unique operational costs on an island, expect to pay slightly more than mainland rates. A full day of daycare typically ranges from $35 to $45. Many local providers offer discounted packages, such as a 10-day pass for $320-$400, which is helpful for residents who work on the mainland. Prices may be higher during the peak summer tourist season.
How do you handle transportation to and from the daycare, especially with the ferry schedule?
This is a key consideration for Islesford. Most daycare services are located on the mainland in Southwest Harbor or Northeast Harbor. Some providers offer a coordinated "pet taxi" service that meets specific early morning ferries to collect pets and return them on designated afternoon ferries. You must coordinate drop-off and pick-up times tightly with the ferry schedule, and a contingency plan for fog or weather-related ferry cancellations is essential.
What does a typical day look like for my dog at a Mount Desert Island area daycare?
Your dog will enjoy a mix of active play and rest. Mornings are usually for supervised group play in size- and temperament-matched groups. Midday involves a quiet nap or crate time with a provided lunch or treat. Afternoons feature more play, often incorporating enrichment activities. Many facilities on the mainland near Acadia National Park also offer nature walks on their wooded properties, providing a classic Maine outdoor experience for your pup.
What should I pack for my pet's daycare day, considering the coastal Maine environment?
Pack a labeled lunch if your pet eats during the day. Due to the cool, often damp coastal climate, a waterproof or quick-dry coat is highly recommended for outdoor play. Also, bring a familiar comfort item like a small blanket for nap time. Most importantly, ensure your pet is wearing a secure, well-fitting collar with an ID tag that has both your Islesford and mainland contact information, in case of any travel delays.
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 Islesford.