Raccoon River Kennels

Raccoon River Kennels is a dog boarding and daycare facility in West Des Moines, Iowa, set on a secluded seven-acre riverside property. The kennel takes dogs of every size, small through giant, for overnight stays, cage-free boarding, and daytime play. Grooming is available as well.

Services and amenities

• Five outdoor play yards, split between turf and natural grass, plus indoor play space
• Private suites and University-themed Executive Dorms
• Individual leash walks on the secluded seven-acre property
• Exit baths and nail trims
• Medication administration and specialty diet accommodation

What sets it apart

Space is the obvious difference. Dogs boarding on their own get walked individually on leash across the seven acres by the river rather than moved from run to run. The play yards come in two surfaces, turf and natural grass, and indoor play rooms cover the days when Iowa weather does not cooperate. Overnight guests can stay in private suites or in the University-themed Executive Dorms. Owners get picture updates during a stay, which is a small thing that matters on a long trip.

Practical details

Boarding runs $45 to $131 per night based on rates published on the kennel's own site, with the range depending on the room type and how many dogs share it. Drop-off and pickup run 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday and 7:00 to 11:00 AM on Saturday. Sunday hours are 7:00 to 8:00 PM. Proof of vaccination is required before a dog stays. Dogs that need medication or a specific diet can be handled at no extra arrangement on the owner's part beyond bringing what is needed. Booking starts with a call to 515-987-9794, an email to info@raccoonriverkennels.com, or the contact form at raccoonriverkennels.com. The facility also posts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, which is a reasonable way to see what a day there actually looks like before committing to a stay.