Finding the Perfect Pet Care in Austin: A Comprehensive List

Why Finding the Right Dog Care in Austin Matters

Austin dog care services come in many forms, from overnight boarding and doggy daycare to in-home sitting and dog walking. Here’s a quick look at what’s available:

• Dog Boarding: Overnight care in a home-like or ranch setting
• Doggy Daycare: Supervised play and socialization during the day
• In-Home Pet Sitting: A sitter comes to your home for feeding, walks, and companionship
• Dog Walking: Mid-day exercise and bathroom breaks
• Grooming & Training: Bath services, nail trims, and obedience programs
• Pet Taxi: Transportation to vet appointments or grooming

If you’re a dog owner in Austin, you know the feeling. You’re heading out of town for work or a long-overdue vacation, and that familiar worry sets in: Is my dog going to be okay? It’s not just about finding a place to leave them—it’s about finding care you can trust. Austin is packed with options, from sprawling ranch-style facilities to in-home sitters and busy daycare centers. But with so many choices, how do you know which one is right for your four-legged family member?

Peace of mind starts with transparency. You want to know your pup is safe, happy, and getting the hands-on attention they deserve—without hidden fees or impersonal treatment. Whether you’re looking for a calm, boutique doggy daycare, a wide-open ranch adventure for boarding, or a trusted local sitter, the best care is rooted in genuine love for dogs and a commitment to treating them like family.

At Pet Caddy, we’re a locally owned Austin-area business offering dog boarding on our 5-acre ranch, doggy daycare in small, supervised groups, and partnerships with trusted in-home sitters. Our pricing is straightforward, and all-day play and hands-on human interaction are always included—no extra charges. This guide will walk you through the types of care available in Austin, what to look for, and how to choose the right fit for your best friend.

A Guide to Austin Dog Care Services

Choosing the right care for your four-legged family member is a big decision. Austin is full of dog lovers, and Pet Caddy is proud to offer a local, hands-on approach. Here’s a look at our most popular services—each designed to fit your dog’s unique personality and your need for peace of mind.

Dog Boarding: Like Home, Only with More Tail Wags

When you’re away, we believe your dog deserves a vacation too! Our dog boarding services are all about creating a “home away from home” experience, especially for our Austin, Spicewood, Horseshoe Bay, Marble Falls, Steiner Ranch, Hudson Ranch, Lakeway, Barton Creek, and Barton Creek Lakeside families. We know that leaving your furry family member can be tough, which is why we’ve designed our ranch adventure to be as stress-free and fun as possible.

Imagine your pup enjoying a true “dude ranch for dogs” experience on our spacious 5-acre property. This isn’t your average kennel; we offer wide open spaces where dogs can run, play, and explore. Our philosophy is that dogs thrive when they can be dogs, with plenty of room to stretch their legs and sniff every exciting scent.

• Small Groups, Big Care: We focus on small groups to ensure every dog receives personalized attention. This allows our caring staff to get to know each pup’s personality, quirks, and preferences. It means more belly rubs, more one-on-one playtime, and a genuinely calmer environment.
• Hands-On, Personalized Attention: Our team provides constant supervision and engagement. This hands-on care is included at no extra cost, ensuring your dog feels loved and secure throughout their stay. From morning greetings to evening tuck-ins, we’re there for them.
• Safety Protocols: Your dog’s safety is our top priority. We have strict safety protocols in place, including secure fencing, constant supervision, and regular health checks upon arrival and throughout their stay. If we ever notice signs of stress or discomfort, we address them immediately.
• Vaccination Requirements: To ensure the health and well-being of all our guests, we require up-to-date vaccination records. This helps us maintain a healthy environment for every dog in our care.
• What’s Included: We believe in transparent pricing. Unlike some places that charge extra for every little thing, our boarding includes spacious accommodations, daily exercise, socialization opportunities, and even medication administration if needed. We also provide daily updates with photos so you can see your happy pup enjoying their ranch adventure.

We’ve heard the worries about dogs being cooped up all day, and that’s just not how we roll. Our dogs are out playing, exploring, and making new friends. It’s a joyful, safe place designed for wagging tails and happy hearts.

More info about dog boarding services.

Doggy Daycare: Supervised Play in a Calm Boutique Space

For our busy Austin-area families, doggy daycare is a fantastic way to ensure your pup gets plenty of activity and companionship during the day. We offer a unique approach to daycare, focusing on a “Calm Boutique Space” where dogs can truly thrive.

• Socialization with Small Groups: We believe in quality over quantity. Our small, supervised groups allow for healthy socialization, reducing stress and promoting positive interactions. It’s an ideal setting for pups to learn good canine manners and make furry friends.
• Mental Stimulation & Physical Exercise: Our daycare isn’t just about letting dogs run wild. We incorporate custom play activities designed to stimulate their minds and bodies. Think interactive games, scent work, and puzzles that keep them engaged and happy. This prevents boredom and ensures they go home tired and content.
• Custom Play: Every dog is unique, and so is their play style. Our experienced staff observes and adapts, offering custom play options that suit each dog’s personality and energy level. Whether they prefer a spirited game of fetch or a gentle cuddle, we’ve got them covered.
• Calm, Home-Like Environment: We strive to create a home-like atmosphere that feels safe and comforting. Our facility is designed to be stress-free, with cozy areas for rest and climate-controlled spaces for comfort.
• Supervised by Experienced Staff: Our team members are true animal lovers, trained in pet first aid and CPR. They’re always on hand to ensure safe play, mediate interactions, and provide plenty of hands-on human interaction. We consider them Certified Doggy Play Experts!
• Facility Features: Our daycare spaces are designed for fun and safety, with both indoor and outdoor areas for play. We offer plenty of room for dogs to move, explore, and relax. All-day play and hands-on human interaction are always included in our transparent pricing, so you never have to worry about hidden fees.

Daycare with us means your dog gets to enjoy a camp-style experience, making new human and canine friends, getting their wiggles out, and learning valuable social skills. It’s a joyful day filled with purpose and play.

More info about doggy daycare.

What to Look for in Austin Dog Care Services

Choosing the right Austin dog care services can feel like a big responsibility. As discerning pet parents, you want to ensure your beloved companion is in the best hands. Here’s a checklist of what we believe are the most important factors to consider, and how we strive to meet them:

• Staff Qualifications: Look for a team that is not only passionate about dogs but also professionally trained. Our staff are experienced animal lovers, adept at understanding canine behavior and ensuring a safe, fun environment.
• Pet First Aid & CPR Certification: This is non-negotiable. Knowing that caregivers are equipped to handle emergencies provides immense peace of mind. Our staff are certified in pet first aid and CPR, a qualification you can learn more about from trusted resources like the American Red Cross.
• Insurance and Bonding: A reputable service will always be insured and bonded. This protects both your pet and your home. We are fully insured and bonded, providing that extra layer of security.
• Facility Cleanliness: A clean environment is crucial for your dog’s health. We maintain a high standard of cleanliness across our ranch and daycare spaces.
• Safety Measures: Beyond cleanliness, robust safety protocols are essential. This includes secure fencing, constant supervision, and careful grouping of dogs. Our small group sizes allow for closer monitoring and safer play.
• Daily Updates with Photos: We understand you miss your pup! That’s why we provide regular updates, often with photos, so you can see your happy dog enjoying their day. This transparency helps you feel connected, even when you’re far away.
• Transparent Pricing: Hidden fees are no fun. We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no surprises. Our services, including hands-on human interaction and all-day play, are included at no extra cost. We want you to focus on your dog’s happiness, not your bill.
• Easy Booking Process: Life is busy enough. We offer a straightforward booking process to make scheduling your dog’s care as simple as possible.

Here are some questions we encourage you to ask any potential provider:

• How do you screen and train your staff?
• What are your emergency procedures, and is your staff certified in pet first aid/CPR?
• Are you insured and bonded?
• What are your vaccination requirements?
• How do you ensure dogs are safely socialized and supervised?
• What is your policy on providing updates to pet parents?
• Can you explain your pricing structure, including any potential hidden fees?
• Do you offer tours of your facility?

Specialized Austin Dog Care Services: Grooming & Training

Beyond boarding and daycare, a comprehensive approach to Austin dog care services often includes other specialized offerings that contribute to your dog’s overall well-being. We understand that a happy dog is a well-rounded dog, and that includes looking good and behaving well!

• Dog Grooming: While we focus on the ranch adventure and play, a good bath can be part of that! Many Austin providers offer full-service grooming, from basic bath & brush services to nail trims and de-shedding treatments. When considering grooming, look for places that prioritize a low-stress experience. Some even offer mobile grooming, bringing the salon right to your home in Austin, Spicewood, or Lakeway!
• Self-Serve Dog Wash: For those who prefer to do it themselves but want to avoid the mess at home, self-serve dog wash stations are a fantastic option. They provide professional-grade products and liftd tubs, making bath time a breeze.
• Enrichment Activities: A growing trend in dog care, enrichment goes beyond basic play. It involves activities that stimulate your dog’s mind, body, and spirit through interactive games, scent work, and puzzles. This helps prevent boredom and builds confidence, making for a truly happy pup.
• Positive Reinforcement Training: We strongly advocate for force-free, positive reinforcement training methods. This approach builds trust and encourages desired behaviors through rewards, creating a stronger bond between you and your dog.
• Board and Train Options: For dogs who could benefit from focused training in an immersive environment, board and train programs are available. Our programs focus on sustained obedience, covering basic commands and leash etiquette, all within our spacious, stress-free ranch setting. This is a great way to reinforce good habits while your dog enjoys their “home away from home.”
• Pet Taxi Services: Sometimes, life gets in the way. Whether it’s a vet appointment in Lakeway, a trip to the groomer in Steiner Ranch, or even just getting to our ranch from Horseshoe Bay, pet taxi services can be a lifesaver. This convenient option ensures your dog gets where they need to go safely and on time.
• Medication Administration: For older or infirm pets, or those with ongoing health needs, medication administration is a critical service. Many reputable care providers, including us, are equipped to administer medications according to your precise instructions, ensuring your dog’s health routine is maintained without interruption.

More info about dog training.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Best Friend

Finding the right fit comes down to your dog’s needs and your comfort while you’re away. Whether your pup loves the freedom of a ranch adventure, the fun of doggy daycare, or the familiarity of home, the best care is built on trust and a genuine love for dogs. Take your time, ask questions, and come tour our ranch. At Pet Caddy, we offer a true ‘home away from home’ with wide-open spaces, hands-on care, and a warmhearted team. Every dog deserves a joyful, safe place to stay.

Ready to give your pup a vacation of their own? Schedule your pup’s stay.