Leaving your furry best friend behind when you travel can be a real heart-breaker. We have all been there—standing by the door with a suitcase while those puppy-dog eyes make us want to unpack everything. That is where the petsmart hotel (also known as the PetsHotel) comes to the rescue. It is not just a place for them to sleep; it is a full-on vacation for your pets right inside a store you already know and trust.
In this guide, we will walk through everything you need to know. From the cozy “Kitty Cottages” to the high-tech air filters, we want to help you feel 100% confident. We have looked at the latest 2026 updates to give you the most honest, helpful, and “people-first” advice possible. Let’s dive into why this might be the perfect home-away-from-home for your four-legged family members.
Detailed PetSmart Hotel Biography Table
| Feature | Details and Specifications |
| Official Name | PetSmart PetsHotel |
| Primary Guests | Dogs and Cats (separated areas) |
| Staffing | 24/7 On-site care and supervision |
| Accommodations | Standard Rooms, Private Suites, Kitty Cottages |
| Health Support | On-call Veterinarians & 24/7 monitoring |
| Key Amenities | Climate control, PetAirapy® UV filters, Bone Booth® |
| Added Services | Doggie Day Camp, Grooming Salon, Training Camp |
| Reporting | Daily “Pawgress Reports” for pet parents |
What Exactly is the PetSmart Hotel?
The petsmart hotel is a professional pet boarding facility located inside select PetSmart stores. It is designed to offer a safe, clean, and fun environment for dogs and cats. Unlike a traditional kennel, this setup feels much more like a real hotel. They have “guest rooms” and “suites” instead of cages.
One thing I personally love is that they are staffed 24 hours a day. This means if your pup has a bad dream or needs a midnight water refill, someone is always there. It is a great alternative to hiring a pet sitter who might only visit for an hour or two. Plus, having a veterinarian on-call gives you that extra layer of peace of mind while you are lounging on a beach somewhere.
Cozy Sleeping Spots for Every Pup
When you book a stay at the petsmart hotel, you get to choose where your dog sleeps. Most pups stay in the Standard Guest Rooms. These are open-air atriums that are cleaned every single day. They come with soft bedding and even a “calming spray” to help your dog relax as soon as they arrive.
If you want to go all out, you can book a Private Suite. These are larger and tucked away from the busier areas, making them perfect for shy dogs or families with multiple pets. These suites feature orthopedic beds and a TV tuned to animal-friendly shows. Imagine your dog watching “Secret Life of Pets” while lounging on a fancy bed—talk about the royal treatment!
The Purr-fect Stay: Kitty Cottages
Cats often get the short end of the stick when it comes to boarding, but the petsmart hotel treats them like royalty too. The “Kitty Cottages” are kept in a completely separate area from the dogs. This is huge because we all know how much cats love (or hate) the sound of barking.
Each cottage is multi-leveled, giving your cat room to climb and explore. They get two individual “TLC sessions” every day where a staff member plays with them and gives them lots of head scratches. The air in the cat area is even filtered separately to keep things smelling fresh and to reduce stress from canine scents.
Keeping it Clean with PetAirapy® Technology
One of my biggest worries with boarding is always germs. However, the petsmart hotel uses a state-of-the-art system called PetAirapy®. This is a special UV air purification system that kills airborne bacteria and viruses. It is like having an invisible shield protecting your pet’s lungs.
The facility is also fully climate-controlled. Whether it is a 100-degree summer day or a freezing winter night, your pet stays at a perfect, comfy temperature. They also use hospital-grade cleaners to sanitize the rooms daily. When they say “clean,” they really mean it!
Safety First: Vaccinations and Records
To keep everyone safe, the petsmart hotel has strict rules about shots. Every dog needs to be up-to-date on Rabies, Distemper (DAPP), and Bordetella. For the cats, they need Rabies and FVRCP. You have to show paper proof from your vet before your pet can check in.
They also require that vaccinations be given at least 48 hours before arrival. This is actually a great rule. It ensures your pet isn’t feeling sore or sick from a shot while trying to settle into a new place. It also protects the other “guests” from catching anything. Always double-check your records a week before your trip!
Fun and Games at Doggie Day Camp
A stay at the petsmart hotel doesn’t mean sitting in a room all day. You can add on a pass for Doggie Day Camp. This is where the real fun happens! Dogs get to run around in a large indoor play area with other furry friends. It is supervised by “Safety-Certified” associates who know how to keep the energy positive.
If your dog is more of a “people person” than a “dog person,” you can opt for Individual Playtime instead. They will get one-on-one attention with a staff member, playing fetch or getting belly rubs. This flexibility is what makes the petsmart hotel stand out—they really try to match the activity to your pet’s personality.
The Famous “Pawgress Reports”
Do you ever wonder what your pet is doing while you are gone? I know I do! The petsmart hotel provides daily “Pawgress Reports.” These are little report cards that tell you how your pet ate, who they played with, and how their overall mood was.
In 2026, many locations even send digital photos or videos. Getting a picture of your smiling dog or a sleepy cat can instantly make your day better. It turns that “pet parent guilt” into “pet parent joy.” You can also call the hotel anytime to check in, and the staff is usually happy to give you a quick update.
Extra Pampering: Salon and Treats
Why not turn the boarding stay into a spa day? You can book a “Homecoming Bath” at the grooming salon so your pet smells like a flower when you pick them up. They also offer nail grinding to keep those paws smooth.
For snacks, you can order a “Snack KONG®” which is a toy stuffed with tasty fillings like peanut butter. There is also the “Bedtime Bliss” package, which includes a bedtime story and a special treat. It sounds a little silly to read a story to a dog, but the extra 15 minutes of quiet human companionship can really help a pet feel secure at the petsmart hotel.
Understanding the Costs and Prices
Pricing at the petsmart hotel is actually quite competitive. A standard night for a dog usually starts around $25 to $35, while cat cottages are often under $20. Of course, the price goes up if you choose a Private Suite or add on a bunch of activities.
I recommend looking for “Play & Save” passes if you plan on using the hotel often. Also, keep in mind that holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving can be “peak times” with slightly higher rates and limited space. It is always a good idea to book at least a month in advance for big holidays to ensure your spot.
Conclusion
Even though the petsmart hotel provides bedding and bowls, you can bring a few things from home. I always suggest bringing your pet’s own food. Changing a dog’s diet suddenly can lead to an upset tummy, which is the last thing you want while boarding.
You can also bring two personal items, like a favorite blanket or a chew toy. Having something that smells like home can be a huge comfort. Just make sure you label everything with your pet’s name! The staff is very organized, but it helps them keep track of your belongings during the daily cleanings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my two dogs stay in the same room?
Yes! The petsmart hotel allows pets from the same family to share a room or suite. This is often cheaper than booking two separate rooms, and it helps the pets feel more comfortable having their “sibling” nearby.
2. What happens if my pet gets sick?
There is a veterinarian on-call 24/7. If the staff notices anything wrong, they will contact you immediately. If they can’t reach you, they will follow the emergency instructions you provided at check-in to ensure your pet gets care.
3. Do I need to bring my own pet food?
It is highly recommended! While the petsmart hotel can provide food for a small fee, your pet’s stomach will be much happier sticking to their usual diet. Just pre-portion it into bags for easy feeding.
4. Is there outdoor time for the dogs?
Most PetSmart locations are indoor-only for safety and security. However, they have large, climate-controlled indoor play areas and ensure dogs get multiple exercise walks and potty breaks throughout the day.
5. How old does my puppy have to be?
Puppies and kittens must be at least 4 months old to stay at the petsmart hotel. This is to ensure they have had all their necessary “big kid” vaccinations to stay safe around other animals.
6. Can I check on my pet while I’m away?
Absolutely! You can call the hotel directly at any time. The staff will check the “Pawgress Report” and give you a live update on how your furry friend is doing.
