Golden Wood Fairplay

Golden Wood Fairplay is a pet boarding kennel offering dog boarding in Fairplay, plus daycare for dogs whose owners work long days. Overnight guests are placed in Small, Standard, or XL accommodations, and the same facility takes cats and small animals in condos or for day stays.

Services and amenities

• Dog boarding in Small, Standard, and XL sizes
• Cat and small animal boarding, with condos and day stays
• Daycare for dogs
• Individual yard time in a large fenced outdoor area
• One-on-one nature walks on the property

What makes it different

Much of what happens here is optional and chosen by the owner. Play and treat add-ons can be layered onto a stay, so a dog that would rather sprint around a fenced yard gets a different day than one that prefers a quiet walk with a staff member. Seasonal pool time runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day for dogs who enjoy the water. The staff describe the goal simply: keep each pet comfortable from drop-off to pick-up, and treat every animal the way they would treat their own.

Practical details

Boarding and daycare are priced at $35 per day, according to the kennel's website. Reservations are made online, and vaccinations are required before a stay. Staff can administer medication for pets that need it, and after-hours drop-off or pick-up can be arranged by appointment.

First-time clients can ask for a personalized tour before booking, which is a sensible way to see the space before leaving a dog for a week. Questions go to (301) 582-3741 or fairplay@goldenwoodpets.com.