Boarding & Day Care in Franklin, MA

Boarding Agreement

Dog Boarding & Daycare in Franklin, MA
Boarding Services at Acorn Animal Hospital

Looking for safe, reliable dog and cat boarding or pet daycare? At Acorn Animal Hospital, we provide a comfortable and structured environment where pets receive attentive care from our experienced team.

Whether your pet is staying overnight or visiting us for daycare, our goal is to provide a safe, enriching experience that keeps pets happy while giving owners peace of mind.

Pet owners throughout Franklin, Massachusetts and surrounding communities trust Acorn Animal Hospital for boarding because we combine attentive care, thoughtful routines, and the added reassurance of a veterinary hospital environment.

For pets that need extra veterinarian services, such as medication administration, or need bathing and grooming to look and feel their best, we have you covered.

Pet Boarding in Franklin, MA
Boarding Agreement

Why Choose Acorn Animal Hospital for Pet Boarding?

Pet owners trust Acorn Animal Hospital for boarding because we provide:

safe & clean environment

attentive veterinary team

Prescription ADMINISTRATION

Pet photos sent upon request

Grooming Add-Ons Available

Cats Special Accommodations

Our team understands that leaving your pet behind can be stressful. That’s why we treat every boarding guest like family and ensure they receive the attention, care, and comfort they deserve.

Pet Boarding requirements

To help protect the health and safety of all pets staying with us, Acorn Animal Hospital requires current vaccinations and basic health requirements prior to boarding or daycare.

Dog Boarding Requirements

  • Vaccination records

    • Dogs: Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella vaccine (must be administered at least 3 days prior to stay)

  • Negative fecal test within the past year

  • Negative heartworm test within the past year

  • Completion of a complimentary 15 minute meet and greet with our kennel staff prior to boarding

  • Must be leashed when dropped off

Cat Boarding Requirements

  • Rabies vaccine

  • FVRCP vaccine

  • Must be dropped off in carrier

If you have questions about your pet’s records, our team is happy to help review vaccination requirements before your pet’s stay.

Senior pets 13 years of age or older must have a senior exam with one of our veterinarians within three months of their boarding stay to ensure boarding is appropriate for their health and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are your pick up and drop off hours?

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Hours

  • Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (pick-ups before 10:00 AM are not charged for the final day)

  • Sunday: Courtesy pick-up hours from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  • No Sunday drop-offs

What does a typical day look like for dogs staying at Acorn Animal Hospital?

Dogs staying with us follow a structured daily routine designed to balance activity and rest. Throughout the day, pets enjoy outdoor time, play opportunities, and periods of relaxation so they remain comfortable and engaged during their stay.

How often do dogs go outside during boarding?

Dogs go outside at least four times per day, including first thing in the morning and again in the evening. Midday outdoor time typically includes play sessions, either with other compatible dogs or one-on-one with a member of our team.

Do dogs participate in group play during boarding?

Many dogs enjoy supervised group play during their stay. Our team carefully evaluates each dog’s size, age, energy level, and temperament to determine the best play environment.

Playgroups are intentionally kept small for safety, with no more than six large dogs or ten small dogs per group. Some dogs may instead enjoy one-on-one playtime with a staff member.

Is staff on site while pets are boarding?

Our team is on site caring for boarding pets Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Please note that staff are not on site overnight, and veterinary staff are not available starting Saturday afternoon and throughout the day on Sunday. Our team ensures all pets are settled comfortably before the end of each day.

Are all dog and cat breeds welcome for boarding?

Yes. We welcome dogs and cats of all breeds for boarding. Our team focuses on creating safe and appropriate play environments based on each dog’s personality and comfort level.

What are your boarding requirements?

Please navigate to the end of this page for detailed overview. 

What should I bring when boarding my pet?

We provide most of what your pet needs during their stay. We recommend bringing your pet’s regular food to help maintain their normal routine, though hospital food can be provided for a small daily fee if needed.

If your pet takes medications, please bring them in their original labeled containers with clear instructions.

You’re also welcome to bring comfort items from home, such as a favorite toy or blanket, to help your pet feel more relaxed. There is no need to bring bowls or measuring cups, as those are provided by our team.

What Franklin, MA Pet Owners Say About Acorn Animal Hospital

Franklin and Norfolk County families trust our veterinary hospital for exceptional, compassionate care that goes above and beyond.

acorn-animal-hospital-logo

The staff here is fantastic. My dog LOVES the daycare, she can't get in there fast enough and comes home exhausted from playing all day. We just brought a new kitten there and the staff was more than accommodating with the appointment. We got an appointment within the week. We love it here. I highly recommend Acorn for all of your pets needs.

— Paula B —

We have been loyal Acorn customers (patients) for over 35 years! We have always found the doctors and staff to be helpful, informative, caring, and supportive whether it is a routine or urgent care appointment, a question, follow up instructions, or sadly when it is time for one of our pets to not suffer. We can't say enough positive things about our experiences at/with Acorn!

— Karen N —

Acorn has squeezed us in to take care of our dog on a few different occasions!! I’m truly grateful to live so close and LOVE that they also do wonderful grooming as well. We haven’t tried boarding yet but again, how convenient that we have this available all in one building!! Thank you Acorn Family!! It means a lot to me that you go the extra mile for my boy!
 

— Kristen T —

Very happy! The staff seem to be very knowledgeable and caring. We took our cat, who has an awful cough. She saw Dr. Holmes. She gave us a few options of what we could do and let us decide which direction we would go in (also very non-judgmental). We were apprised every step of the way before any service was preformed. She was also very thorough, at a time when you can not bring your pet in side in person due to Covid, we felt very informed and that they really cared about the best for our cat. We were customers of a box chain veterinarian, that we were never happy with. We felt like they sold services and not care, there is a huge difference when you feel your pet is cared about and cared for. Would absolutely recommend Acorn Animal Hospital!

— Lisa B —

We have a vet 5 minutes from our house but still drive 25 minutes to Acorn because they are so great! Every single person, from the front desk to the vet, is so caring for both human and animal customers. When our pup had a toenail injury, I called to see if we should bring him in, and they had me text them pictures, assessed the situation remotely and decided we didn't need to come in, and then continued to check in via text for the next few days. They easily could have told me to come in so they could charge me for a visit. This is another example of how much they prioritize the health of their patients. We love Acorn!

— Katie L —