I see some mixed reviews for Paws by the Lake, but we had a good experience. The kennel is huge,…read morethere's really room for a lot of dogs, but I feel l like there was space for them to breathe. My dog is a solo boarder - we don't do The Thunderdome as I don't care who is in charge, 15 dogs in a pack is too much.
So.... boarding and reservations are pretty easy. There are an almost ridiculous amount of options, with variable price points. While they had some of the fancier kennels available, I went with the lower rent option, and added on a walk each day for my dog. One thing to keep an eye on.... they have upsell options on absolutely everything. Kennel size, CCTV/webcam, I think there's TVs for the dogs in one area, baths, grooming, playtime, walks, adventure walks.... everything. I would recommend reading over their pricing options BEFORE you go, and understanding/knowing what you're comfortable spending, and sticking to it. While the base prices are comparable to other kennels I've used, you could quite easily end up paying the equivalent of a room at the Hampton Inn for your dog. Of course, if that's your price point and vibe, they got you covered.
The check in staff are friendly. I got a one on one tour a couple of weeks before our reservation, and the guide was very sweet and pointed out everything. I saw every kennel room, the play rooms (even though we weren't using that), etc. Drop off was easy, as was pick up. They do use the standard slip leashes and hand your pet's gear back to you at drop off, so don't forget your leash and collar when you return! I did opt to bring her food, and her slow feeder, but they handed the bowl right back and told me they had the same one. Kora got regular walks, but I did decline the double priced adventure walk, though if she has to go for an extended stay, she might get the upgrade. There is an overnight kennel attendant, and the kennel is affiliated with the vet hospital across the street, so there is vet care available. I also found that, due to their larger size and staff, that they were much more generous with drop off/pick up times than average - any time that they are open, you can come.
Headcount was low the day I toured, but I do want to say, I think this is the least stinky kennel I've ever used. I opted for the price included wipe down before pick up, rather than an add on bath, but she came home smelling fine. I think we'll be repeat customers. I just wish it were a wee bit closer to my house!
