Thanksgiving Travel Plans? Why Now is the Time to Book Your Dog's Holiday Boarding in Maryville

October 23, 2025 5 min read Maryville, TN
Limited Spots Available!

Thanksgiving is Just 5 Weeks Away

We limit boarding to 10 dogs for personalized care. Don't wait until it's too late!

Reserve Your Spot Now
Maddie Van Fleet - Paws & Applause Owner

Written by Maddie Van Fleet

Owner of Paws & Applause LLC | NePoPo® Silver Graduate

5+ Years Experience Woman & Veteran Owned Maryville Native

As a Maryville native, I know how important family gatherings are during Thanksgiving. Let us care for your furry family member while you enjoy yours!

If you're like most East Tennessee families, you're already starting to plan your Thanksgiving travel. Whether you're heading to Nashville to see family, flying out to visit relatives, or taking that long-awaited vacation, there's one important detail you can't afford to overlook: booking your dog's boarding reservation NOW.

Why Thanksgiving Boarding Books Up So Fast in Maryville

Every year, we receive frantic calls the week before Thanksgiving from pet parents who just realized they need boarding. Unfortunately, by then, we're completely booked. Here's why Thanksgiving is our busiest season:

  • McGhee Tyson Airport sees 3x normal traffic during Thanksgiving week
  • University of Tennessee students heading home create additional demand
  • Maryville families traveling to see relatives across Tennessee and beyond
  • Limited quality boarding options in Blount County mean the best facilities fill first
  • We cap at 10 dogs to maintain our personalized care standards

📅 Your Thanksgiving Boarding Timeline

  • Now (Late October): Book your reservation - spots still available!
  • Early November: Confirm dates and provide vaccination records
  • Mid-November: Schedule a meet & greet if first-time client
  • Week Before: Pack your dog's food and comfort items
  • Drop-off Day: Relax knowing your dog is in loving hands

What Makes Thanksgiving Special at Paws & Applause

We know the holidays can be stressful for dogs when their families travel. That's why we go extra mile to make Thanksgiving feel special, not lonely, for your furry family member:

🦃 Thanksgiving Week Activities

  • Turkey Time Treats: Special vet-approved turkey-flavored snacks (no real turkey - we keep it safe!)
  • Gratitude Photo Sessions: Adorable Thanksgiving-themed photos sent to you daily
  • Extra Play Sessions: More outdoor time in our secure Maryville facility to enjoy the fall weather
  • Cozy Movie Nights: Yes, we really do have movie time with dog-friendly films!
  • Individual Attention: With only 10 dogs maximum, every pup gets personal cuddle time
"We were so worried about leaving Bella for Thanksgiving, but the daily photos of her playing with friends and wearing a little pilgrim hat made our day! She was so happy we almost felt guilty for worrying."
- Sarah M., Alcoa resident

Why Choose Professional Boarding Over Alternatives?

We understand you have options when it comes to holiday pet care. Here's why professional boarding at a licensed, insured facility is your best choice:

✅ Advantages Over Friends/Family Pet-Sitting:

  • Professional training: Our NePoPo® certified staff handle any situation
  • 24/7 supervision: Someone is always here, unlike drop-in pet sitters
  • Emergency preparedness: Direct line to Maryville vets if needed
  • No guilt or favors owed: This is what we do and love!
  • Structured routine: Maintains your dog's schedule and reduces anxiety

Local Travel Statistics That Should Motivate Early Booking

According to AAA, over 2.5 million Tennesseans will travel during Thanksgiving week. In Blount County alone:

  • An estimated 15,000+ households will travel out of town
  • There are only 5 licensed boarding facilities in Maryville
  • Combined, these facilities can accommodate roughly 200 dogs
  • With over 30,000 dogs in Blount County, space is extremely limited

The math is simple: Quality boarding spots will be gone by early November. Don't be part of the last-minute scramble!

What You Need to Know Before Booking

📋 Boarding Requirements Checklist

  • ✅ Current Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccinations (must be given 7+ days before boarding)
  • ✅ Flea/tick prevention current
  • ✅ Emergency contact information
  • ✅ Any medications with clear instructions
  • ✅ Your dog's regular food (we provide bowls)
  • ✅ Optional: favorite toy or blanket from home

Thanksgiving Boarding Rates & Savings

We believe in transparent, fair pricing - even during peak seasons. Unlike many facilities, we don't add holiday surcharges:

  • Single Dog: $55/night (same as our regular rate!)
  • Multiple Dogs: 10% discount on additional dogs from same family
  • Extended Stays: Staying 5+ nights? Ask about our extended stay discount
  • Add-On Services: Grooming available so your dog comes home holiday-ready!

The Peace of Mind Factor

When you board with Paws & Applause, you're not just getting a place for your dog to stay. You're getting:

  • 165 five-star reviews from satisfied Maryville families
  • Woman and veteran-owned business with military precision and care
  • Licensed and insured for your complete protection
  • Daily photo updates so you can enjoy your turkey knowing your pup is happy
  • Local ownership - we're your neighbors, not a corporate chain

Don't Wait - Book Your Thanksgiving Boarding Today!

Last year, we were fully booked by November 5th. Don't risk being stuck without quality care for your beloved pet. Even if your travel plans aren't 100% confirmed, reserve your spot now - you can always adjust dates later.

🦃 Reserve Your Thanksgiving Boarding Spot

Only accepting 10 dogs total for personalized holiday care.
Don't wait until it's too late!

Book Boarding Now Call (865) 300-5988

Questions? We're here to help! Call or text us anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Boarding

Q: How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 3-4 weeks before Thanksgiving. However, the sooner the better! Early November is when we typically reach capacity.

Q: Can I tour the facility before booking?

Absolutely! We encourage all new clients to schedule a free tour and meet & greet. Call (865) 300-5988 to schedule your visit. See why Maryville families trust us with their pets!

Q: What if my dog has never been boarded before?

No worries! We specialize in making first-time boarders comfortable. Our NePoPo® training methods help anxious dogs relax. We recommend a trial day or overnight before Thanksgiving to help them adjust.

Q: Do you offer pick-up and drop-off on Thanksgiving Day?

Yes, we have limited holiday hours on Thanksgiving Day for pick-ups and drop-offs. Specific times are arranged when you book to accommodate travel schedules.

Q: What areas do you serve?

We're located in Maryville and serve all of Blount County including Alcoa, Louisville, Friendsville, and Townsend. We also welcome clients from Knoxville and surrounding areas.

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