Los Angeles pet owners know the challenge - finding quality pet boarding that doesn’t break the bank in one of the country’s most expensive cities. With our year-round mild climate and busy lifestyle, LA residents use pet boarding services more frequently than most other cities, whether it’s for weekend getaways to Santa Barbara or extended business trips.
The good news? LA’s competitive pet boarding market means you have plenty of options, from basic kennels in Van Nuys to luxury pet resorts in Beverly Hills. Understanding local pricing helps you make the best choice for your furry family member while staying within budget.
Daily Pet Boarding Cost Breakdown
Pet boarding costs in Los Angeles vary significantly based on your pet’s size, the facility type, and additional services. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Service Type | Small Dogs | Medium Dogs | Large Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Boarding | $45-60 | $55-70 | $65-85 | $35-50 |
| Premium Boarding | $70-95 | $80-110 | $90-125 | $50-75 |
| Luxury Suites | $120-180 | $140-200 | $160-250 | $80-120 |
| Daycare Only | $35-55 | $40-60 | $45-70 | $25-40 |
The reason you pay more than the Bureau of Labor Statistics base wage of $19.33 per hour is because your rate includes business overhead like insurance, facility maintenance, specialized equipment, and staff training. Quality facilities also invest heavily in safety protocols and enrichment programs that justify the $29-48 per hour you actually pay.
Cost Factors That Affect Pet Boarding Prices
Several factors influence what you’ll pay for pet boarding in Los Angeles. Location plays a huge role - facilities in Manhattan Beach or West Hollywood charge premium rates compared to those in Sylmar or Sun Valley. Your pet’s temperament matters too; anxious pets requiring extra attention or those needing medication administration typically cost 15-20% more.
Holiday pricing is another reality in LA. Expect to pay 25-50% more during peak times like Christmas, New Year’s, and summer vacation months. Many facilities require minimum stays during these periods, so a typical two-night weekend could become a four-night minimum booking.
Questions to Ask Before Booking Pet Boarding
Before committing to any facility, visit in person and ask these essential questions. Can you tour the entire facility, including sleeping and play areas? What’s the staff-to-pet ratio during different shifts? How do they handle medical emergencies, and which veterinarian do they use?
Ask about their cleaning protocols - reputable facilities clean sleeping areas daily and disinfect between guests. Find out about exercise schedules, feeding procedures, and how they handle pets with special needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for references from other pet owners in your neighborhood.
Local Regulations and Licensing Requirements
Los Angeles County requires all pet boarding facilities to maintain specific licenses and undergo regular health department inspections. Legitimate facilities should display their license prominently and provide inspection records upon request. They must also maintain current rabies vaccination records for all boarded pets.
Many facilities require pets to be current on Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccines in addition to standard vaccinations. Some premium facilities go beyond minimum requirements, mandating fecal exams or additional health screenings. While this increases costs slightly, it protects all pets in their care.
What to Expect During the Boarding Process
Quality Los Angeles pet boarding facilities follow structured intake and care procedures. During drop-off, expect a detailed discussion about your pet’s routine, dietary needs, and any behavioral quirks. Staff should review emergency contact information and your veterinarian’s details.
Most facilities provide daily updates through photos or brief reports, especially for first-time boarders or anxious pets. Pick-up procedures typically include a summary of your pet’s stay, including eating habits, bathroom schedules, and social interactions with staff and other pets.
Red Flags and Quality Indicators
Avoid facilities that won’t allow tours, can’t provide licensing information, or have strong odors throughout the building. Quality indicators include clean facilities, happy staff who clearly love animals, and transparent pricing without hidden fees.
Look for facilities with webcam access, structured play times, and individualized care plans. The best boarding facilities maintain detailed records of each pet’s preferences and behaviors, creating a more comfortable experience for repeat visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pet boarding cost in Los Angeles for a week-long stay?
For a week-long stay, expect to pay $315-420 for basic boarding, $490-770 for premium services, or $840-1,750 for luxury accommodations. Many facilities offer weekly discounts of 10-15% for stays over five days. Factor in additional costs for special services like grooming ($40-80), extra walks ($15-25 daily), or medication administration ($10-15 daily). Holiday weeks cost significantly more, often 25-50% above standard rates.
What factors affect pet boarding prices in Los Angeles?
Pet size is the primary factor, with large dogs costing $20-40 more per night than small dogs. Location significantly impacts pricing - facilities in affluent areas like Beverly Hills charge premium rates. Additional factors include your pet’s temperament (anxious pets cost more), special dietary needs, medication requirements, and holiday timing. Luxury amenities like private suites, extended playtime, or one-on-one attention increase costs substantially.
Are PetSmart boarding costs competitive in Los Angeles?
PetSmart’s Los Angeles locations typically charge $45-65 per night for dogs and $35-45 for cats, making them competitively priced for basic boarding services. However, their amenities are limited compared to dedicated boarding facilities. While convenient and standardized, PetSmart may not offer the personalized attention or specialized services that independent facilities provide, especially for pets with special needs or separation anxiety.
How can I reduce pet boarding costs without sacrificing quality?
Book early to avoid holiday surcharges and secure better rates. Consider facilities slightly outside prime areas - places in Burbank or Glendale often cost 15-20% less than West Side locations. Ask about multi-pet discounts if you have multiple animals, and inquire about loyalty programs for regular customers. Some facilities offer discounts for longer stays or off-peak bookings during weekdays.
| Additional Services | Typical Cost | Worth It? |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Grooming | $25-45 | For long stays |
| Extra Walks | $15-25 | Active dogs |
| One-on-One Play | $20-35 | Anxious pets |
| Special Diet | $5-15/day | If needed |
| Medication Admin | $10-15/day | Essential |
Maintaining Your Pet’s Comfort During Boarding
Bring familiar items like your pet’s favorite blanket or toy to reduce stress and potential behavioral issues that could result in additional charges. Maintain your pet’s regular vaccination schedule to avoid last-minute vet visits before boarding. Consider occasional daycare visits to socialize your pet and reduce anxiety during longer boarding stays.
Regular exercise and training at home also help your pet adapt better to boarding environments, potentially qualifying them for group play sessions rather than individual attention that costs extra.
Understanding pet boarding costs in Los Angeles helps you budget appropriately while ensuring your furry family member receives quality care. Whether you choose basic boarding or luxury accommodations, prioritize facilities that demonstrate genuine care for animals and maintain transparent pricing policies.
Pricing data sourced from Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS survey. Consumer prices calculated using industry-standard multipliers. See our methodology for details.