York vet expands boarding, grooming services with Meows and Growls

Veterinarian Sylvia Chappell saw a need to branch out into the fun side of pet care. She wanted to pamper her patients and expand the clinic’s pet boarding services.

Chappell and her staff recently opened Meows and Growls, a pet spa and full-serving boarding and grooming service, next to the veterinary clinic at 1420 E. Alexander Love Highway.

“It always was in our sights to expand, to accommodate more than the vet side, so we can see more of the joyful part of the industry,” said Chappell, who opened the York clinic about five years ago.

Chappell’s 3,100-square foot White Rose Veterinary Clinic expanded to more than 9,000 square feet by adding Meows and Growls.

A grand opening is planned from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7 with games, a trainer demo and other activities.

Manager Kathy Jackson said Meows and Growls has 14 dog kennels and 16 cat condos, up from space for about eight animals. She said the practice also has boarded other animals, including guinea pigs, a possum, hamsters, birds and a pot-bellied pig.

Chappell and Jackson said their goal is for pets to feel at home during their visit and for their owners to feel comfortable in leaving them.

“We want them to be treated like guests,” said Chappell, who noted that many people see their pets as part of the family. “A lot of families are made up of two people and their furry kids.”

Jackson said each pet has a bed and a blanket, but she said they aren’t just left in the kennels. She said the animals are walked, cuddled and get plenty of play time during their stay.

“We want to have that interaction with them,” Chappell said. “They’re going to miss their mom and dad, but hopefully we will keep them entertained.”

Meows and Growls also has an indoor play area and outdoor kennels where dogs can go for play or exercise time, she said.

The staff includes vet assistant Tanya Dellinger and clinic support specialist Jojo Gonzalez.

Chappell said the business also has a shower for grooming services, to make it easier especially for large animals.

Boarding rates are $15 to $25 a night for dogs, depending on the size, and $15 a night for cats. Grooming fees range from $20 to around $80, depending on the breed and the grooming needs.

Jackson said Meows and Growls plans to add pet massage services early next year. Jackson, who is taking a class in the technique, said massage relaxes pets and can help heal injuries.

The retail area carries Apex and Victor non-prescription brand dog food, leashes and collars, T-shirts, mugs and other pet items.

This story was originally published November 5, 2015 at 5:39 PM with the headline "York vet expands boarding, grooming services with Meows and Growls."