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Pet boarding services: PetSmart PetsHotel vs. Rover

Quick Verdict

PetSmart PetsHotel is better for pet owners who value standardized services, on-site veterinary care, and structured environments. Rover is better for those seeking personalized care and potentially more flexible arrangements, but it requires careful vetting of individual sitters.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributePetSmart PetsHotelRover
Dog Boarding Price (per night)Starting at $15 and up to $41 per night. Prices vary depending on location, suite type, size and number of pets, and add-ons.Not available
Cat Boarding Price (per night)Starting around $20 per night. Prices vary based on location, room type, and additional services.Not available
Availability of 24/7 SupervisionYes. PetSmart PetsHotels are staffed 24/7. However, some locations may not have in-person care overnight, with monitoring handled by a third party.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Grooming Services OfferedYes. PetSmart offers a full-service grooming salon. Services include baths, haircuts, nail trims, and de-shedding treatments.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Training Services OfferedYes. They offer training classes for all levels, from puppy basics to advanced skills. They also offer 30-minute one-on-one training sessions for PetsHotel guests.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Pet Taxi ServiceWhile not explicitly stated as "Pet Taxi," PetSmart offers convenient drop-off and pickup times.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Webcam Access for OwnersVideo cameras are located throughout each hotel. However, it's unclear if owners have direct webcam access. Some locations may offer webcam streaming.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Socialization with Other PetsYes, with certain packages. Group playtime is available, and compatibility is assessed.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Individual Playtime OptionsYes. You can schedule 30 or 60-minute sessions.Varies depending on the individual provider.
Administering MedicationYes. They administer medication if needed, as long as it is in its original packaging and clearly labeled with dosage instructions. Over-the-counter medications are accepted with a veterinarian's dosage recommendation.Many Rover sitters are willing to administer medications, including injections.
Emergency Veterinary Care On-SiteA veterinarian is on-call 24 hours a day. Pets are guaranteed access to veterinary care around the clock.Rover itself is not staffed for skilled veterinary care.
Size and Type of EnclosuresDogs: Standard guest rooms (open-air atrium), private suites (larger, more private), and Atrium dog rooms. Cats: Kitty Cottages (private). Connecting doors for up to two cats are available. Enclosures are cleaned and sanitized daily. Climate-controlled spaces with species-specific ventilation systems.Varies depending on the individual provider.

Overall Comparison

PetSmart PetsHotel: Dog boarding from $15-$41/night, Cat boarding from $20/night; Rover: Pricing varies by provider.

Pros and Cons

PetSmart PetsHotel

Pros:
  • 24/7 staffing
  • On-call veterinarian
  • Grooming services
  • Training services
  • Medication administration
  • Socialization opportunities
  • Individual playtime options
  • Convenient drop-off and pickup times
  • Detailed records of each pet’s stay are kept
  • Pawgress Report
Cons:
  • Cleanliness can decline during busy periods due to understaffing
  • Staffing levels may not always be adequate, especially during peak seasons
  • Webcam access for owners is unclear

Rover

Pros:
  • Many Rover sitters are willing to administer medications, including injections.
  • Rover has trust and safety guidelines, including background checks for sitters and a guarantee that includes vet care reimbursement.
  • Rover encourages open communication between pet parents and pet care providers.
Cons:
  • Specific details regarding pricing, services, and policies can vary significantly depending on the individual provider.
  • Rover itself is not staffed for skilled veterinary care.
  • Cleanliness will vary by location.
  • Rover itself has no policies on vaccinations. Individual sitters set their own requirements and may ask for documentation from a vet.

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