Why Local, Personalized Care Beats Big Chain Kennels
While chain stores offer convenience, Paws & Applause provides superior personalized care with NePoPo® certified trainers, 24/7 supervision, and a 12-dog maximum capacity that big chains can't match.
| Feature | Paws & Applause | PetSmart PetsHotel | Petco |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity & Attention | |||
| Maximum Dogs | ✅ 12 dogs only | ❌ 100+ dogs | ❌ 50-75 dogs |
| Staff-to-Dog Ratio | ✅ 1:4 ratio | ❌ 1:15-20 ratio | ❌ 1:10-15 ratio |
| Personal Attention | ✅ Know each dog by name | ❌ Assembly line care | ❌ Limited interaction |
| Staff Qualifications | |||
| Training Certification | ✅ NePoPo® Graduate | ❓ Basic training only | ❓ Varies by location |
| Professional Credentials | ✅ AKC & IACP certified | ❌ No required certs | ❌ No required certs |
| Owner Involvement | ✅ Owner on-site daily | ❌ Corporate managed | ❌ Corporate managed |
| Care & Supervision | |||
| 24/7 Supervision | ✅ Always staffed | ❓ Overnight varies | ❌ No overnight staff |
| Playtime Structure | ✅ Small supervised groups | ⚠️ Large play areas | ⚠️ Limited playtime |
| Special Needs Care | ✅ Customized care plans | ⚠️ Limited options | ⚠️ Basic only |
| Pricing & Value | |||
| Nightly Rate | 💰 $45/night | 💰 $41-55/night | 💰 $40-50/night |
| Hidden Fees | ✅ None - all inclusive | ❌ Playtime extra | ❌ Many add-ons |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent | ⭐⭐⭐ Average | ⭐⭐⭐ Average |
| Facility & Environment | |||
| Setting | ✅ Home-like atmosphere | ❌ Retail warehouse | ❌ Store environment |
| Noise Level | ✅ Calm & controlled | ❌ Often chaotic | ❌ Store noise |
| Outdoor Access | ✅ Natural outdoor areas | ⚠️ Limited concrete runs | ⚠️ Minimal outdoor |
Our NePoPo® certified trainer can handle any behavioral challenge - something chain stores simply can't offer with their high-turnover staff.
Started after losing a beloved dog to cancer, we provide the care we wished existed - not just a corporate profit center.
Someone is always awake and watching. Many chains leave dogs unattended overnight with just cameras.
Cozy, quiet, and calm - not a concrete warehouse attached to a noisy retail store.
"After a terrible experience at PetSmart where my dog came home stressed and exhausted, finding Paws & Applause was a blessing. Night and day difference!"
- Sarah M.
"My anxious rescue dog actually gets excited to go here. The small group size and personal attention made all the difference."
- John D.
Our $45/night rate is competitive with chains, but includes everything - no hidden fees for playtime, treats, or basic services like the chains charge.
While chains might have more availability due to size, our clients appreciate booking ahead for guaranteed personalized care rather than last-minute warehouse storage.
We have one location in Maryville, focusing on quality over quantity. Many clients drive from Knoxville because the superior care is worth the extra miles.
Our hours (7AM-7PM weekdays) are designed for working families. Unlike retail stores open for shopping, our hours focus on pet drop-off and pick-up needs.
Don't settle for warehouse boarding. Give your dog the personalized attention they deserve.