How to Choose the Best Dog Boarding Facility in Knoxville
Mar 13
3 min read
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By Maddie, Owner of Paws & Applause, LLC
As a lifelong dog lover and the owner of Paws & Applause, LLC, I understand how important it is to find the perfect place for your pup when you need to be away. Whether it’s for a vacation, work trip, or just a weekend getaway, your dog deserves a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment. But with so many options, how do you choose the best boarding facility in Knoxville? Let’s dive into what truly matters when selecting a home away from home for your furry friend.
Safety & Cleanliness Come First:
One of the most important things to consider when boarding your dog is how clean and safe the facility is. A high-quality boarding facility should prioritize:
✔ Secure fencing & gated areas to prevent escapes
✔ Climate-controlled indoor spaces for comfort
✔ Regular cleaning and sanitation protocols
✔ An emergency plan for medical situations.
At Paws & Applause, we go the extra mile to ensure every dog’s safety and well-being. Our facility is regularly cleaned, and we have a structured system in place to monitor dogs throughout their stay.
Experienced & Caring Staff Matter:
The people caring for your dog play a huge role in their experience. A reputable boarding facility will have trained professionals who understand dog behavior, know how to handle different temperaments, and are equipped to respond in case of emergencies. Here are some key questions to ask:
How many staff members are on-site during the day and overnight?
Are staff trained in pet first aid and CPR?
What is their experience with handling various breeds and temperaments?
At Paws & Applause, we intentionally keep our boarding numbers small so every pup receives personalized care and attention. Your dog isn’t just another guest—they’re part of our extended family.
A Routine That Feels Like Home:
Every dog is unique, and a good boarding facility should offer personalized care to match each dog’s needs. Some pups thrive in social playgroups, while others prefer one-on-one attention. A structured daily routine should include:
✔ Supervised playtime & enrichment activities
✔ Individualized feeding schedules
✔ Medication administration if needed
✔ Comfortable rest areas for downtime
We tailor every stay at Paws & Applause to ensure your dog feels at home. Whether they love a good game of fetch or prefer a quiet cuddle session, we make sure they have the best experience possible.
Reputation & Reviews Speak Volumes:
Before booking, take time to check online reviews. Google, Facebook, and local pet forums are great places to see what other pet parents are saying. Look for:
✔ Consistently positive feedback about care and cleanliness
✔ Stories of happy, well-adjusted dogs after their stay
✔ Responsive and professional communication from the business
We’re incredibly proud of the reviews we’ve received from our amazing clients. Seeing dogs wag their tails as they return for another stay is the best testimonial we could ask for!
Schedule a Tour & Ask Questions:
The best way to know if a boarding facility is the right fit is to visit in person. Pay attention to how the dogs are treated, the cleanliness of the environment, and whether the staff is warm and welcoming. A good facility will always be transparent and encourage visits.
At Paws & Applause, we welcome pet parents to schedule a tour, meet our team, and see firsthand how we care for our boarding guests.
VIP Pick-Up & Drop-Off for Busy Pet Parents:
For pet parents with packed schedules, a boarding facility that offers pick-up and drop-off services can be a lifesaver. This extra convenience ensures that even the busiest pet owners can provide their dogs with top-notch care without the stress of drop-offs and pick-ups.
We offer a VIP pick-up and drop-off service to make your life easier—because quality pet care should be convenient, too.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the best dog boarding facility in Knoxville is about more than just finding a place to leave your pup—it’s about finding a second home where they will be safe, happy, and well cared for. By focusing on safety, staff experience, personalized care, and reputation, you can confidently choose a facility that meets your dog’s needs.
At Paws & Applause, LLC, we provide luxury, personalized boarding with structured care so you can have peace of mind while you’re away. If you’d like to learn more or book a stay, feel free to reach out, schedule a tour, or contact us today!
🐶 Happy tails, Maddie Owner, Paws & Applause, LLC
