Business Details
33 Years
experience
Your Pet's Home Away From Home in Durham, NH
Founded in 1993, Great Bay Kennel has dedicated over three decades to providing exceptional pet care in Durham, NH. Our mission centers on creating a nurturing, stimulating, and secure environment for pets, combining personalized attention with professional expertise. In 2014, we expanded our offerings by merging with Great Bay Animal Hospital, establishing a comprehensive 'pet campus' that integrates boarding, daycare, grooming, and veterinary services. Our team of experienced professionals undergoes rigorous training in animal behavior, emergency care, and sanitation protocols to ensure the highest standards of safety and well-being.We pride ourselves on catering to individual pet needs through customized socialization, exercise, and comfort solutions, supported by state-of-the-art facilities featuring climate-controlled spaces, outdoor play areas, and advanced hygiene practices. Our veterinarian-owned operation guarantees access to immediate medical care, while our commitment to continuous improvement drives ongoing facility upgrades and staff development.
Services
Pet Boarding
Doggie Day Care
Pet Grooming
Day Boarding
Veterinary Services
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- Veterinarian-owned operation with onsite veterinary technicians
- Staff trained in emergency first aid and animal behavior
- 50+ years combined experience in professional pet care
- Merged with full-service animal hospital for immediate medical access
- Climate-controlled facilities with 7,000 sq ft outdoor play areas
What people say
Great boarding facility
Happy when pick up
Nice staff
Easy scheduling
Solid reputation
Services
Pet Boarding
Our pet boarding service provides a safe, comfortable environment for dogs, cats, and small animals. Features include climate-controlled kennels, outdoor exercise areas, and personalized care plans. Staff monitor pets 24/7 with emergency veterinary access available through our adjacent animal hospital. We accommodate special dietary needs and medication administration while maintaining strict sanitation protocols for optimal health.
Doggie Day Care
This supervised socialization program offers 78,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor play space with pools, playground equipment, and shaded areas. Trained staff organize group activities and individual play sessions while monitoring canine interactions. Climate-controlled facilities ensure year-round comfort, with separate areas for different energy levels and senior dogs requiring low-impact activities.
Pet Grooming
Professional grooming services include bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and breed-specific haircuts. Our groomers handle matting removal and coat conditioning while using gentle techniques to minimize stress. Services promote skin health and coat maintenance between visits, with options for post-visit care recommendations and home grooming tips.
Veterinary Services
Adjacent full-service veterinary clinic provides medical care, surgeries, and dental treatments. Services include wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostic testing, and emergency care. Onsite technicians support routine procedures while offering immediate intervention capabilities for boarding pets requiring urgent medical attention.
Day Boarding
Flexible day-use boarding option for pets needing temporary care during work hours or errands. Includes access to play areas, socialization opportunities, and midday naps in comfortable kennels. Staff provide meals and medication administration as needed while maintaining structured activity schedules for consistent pet engagement.
People
Geoff Sawyer
Co-Founder
Co-founded Great Bay Kennel in 1993 with extensive experience in animal care. Merged the facility with Great Bay Animal Hospital in 2014 to create a comprehensive pet care campus. Continues to oversee operations while maintaining veterinary partnerships for integrated pet health services.
Jaki Sawyer
Co-Founder
Co-founder instrumental in establishing Great Bay Kennel's reputation for quality pet care since 1993. Played key role in developing the 'pet campus' concept through the 2014 merger with Great Bay Animal Hospital. Focuses on staff training programs and facility improvements to maintain industry-leading care standards.
Questions
What pet boarding requirements do you have?
We require up-to-date vaccination records and completed medical history forms. All pets must be in good health with no contagious conditions. Special needs pets require prior consultation with our veterinary staff.
Do you offer grooming services for cats?
Yes, we provide cat grooming including bathing, nail trimming, and coat maintenance. Our groomers use calming techniques specifically designed for feline clients to ensure stress-free experiences.
How does your dog daycare group pets?
We group dogs by size, energy level, and temperament. Separate areas exist for senior dogs and puppies. Staff continuously monitor interactions to ensure safe socialization while allowing appropriate play behaviors.
What emergency care options exist?
Our onsite veterinary hospital provides immediate medical care. Boarding pets with urgent needs receive priority treatment. Staff trained in emergency first aid stabilize animals before veterinary intervention when necessary.
Can I tour the facilities?
Yes, we encourage facility tours before reservations. Schedule appointments to see boarding areas, daycare spaces, and grooming stations. Staff will explain safety protocols and answer specific care questions during visits.
What late check-out options exist?
We charge $20 for check-outs after 12 PM. Day boarding remains available until 6 PM daily. Please arrange extended stays in advance to ensure proper staffing and space availability.
