Question 1

What is 4 Paw Lodge?

Accepted Answer

4 Paw Lodge is a cozy, home-like dog boarding lodge and grooming spot out in the Texas country — in Ricardo, just outside Kingsville. It’s a woman-owned small business, opened in November 2023 by Melissa Merritt, built on treating every dog like family. Short stays and long stays are both welcome.

Question 2

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We’re at 558 W County Road 2200, Kingsville, TX 78363 — out in Ricardo, about 15 miles from town, in the southwest corner of FM 772. It’s a quiet, secluded little corner of the South Texas country in Kleberg County.

Question 3

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

Monday–Friday 8am–6pm and Saturday 9am–1pm. We also do Sunday pick-ups and drop-offs at 5pm only, plus after-hours pick-ups and drop-offs — both with a small convenience fee. Everything runs by appointment, so reach out and we’ll set your drop-off and pick-up times.

Question 4

Do you offer short-term and long-term boarding?

Accepted Answer

Yes — both. Whether you need a single night or an extended stay, your dog is welcome. Ask about longer stays when you book.

Question 5

What’s included in a boarding stay?

Accepted Answer

A home-like indoor space with cameras, a TV and a noise machine to keep things calm. Your dog is let out 6 times a day — first let-out at 8am, last at 8pm — and fed twice a day at 8am and 4pm. Kennels run from medium up to our Lux Large suite, which has its own doggie door out to a private patio, and there’s a big dog run outside. Your dog’s own meals and any medications are accommodated — just bring their food.

Question 6

Do you offer grooming?

Accepted Answer

Yes — grooming is right inside the lodge at KK’s K9 SPA, run by Kalye Utterback. It’s by appointment only, so call the grooming line at (361) 296-5692 to book or ask what your dog needs.

Question 7

What vaccinations do you require?

Accepted Answer

Dogs need to be up to date on rabies, parvo and bordetella, and we’ll need a copy of the records. Dogs also need to be free of ticks and fleas, and people-friendly with no signs of aggression.

Question 8

What should I bring for my dog’s stay?

Accepted Answer

Bring your dog’s food pre-packaged or in a sealed container — no big bags, please. A bed, blanket, toys and nylon bones are all welcome (no rawhides), along with any medications and clear dosing instructions. We look after everything as carefully as we can, but we can’t be responsible for lost or destroyed items.

Question 9

Do you take all breeds and sizes?

Accepted Answer

Yes — all sizes, with kennels from medium up to our Lux Large suite. Big dogs are evaluated before their first stay at a scheduled meet & greet, so we know everyone will be comfortable. Every dog needs to be people-friendly, show no signs of aggression, and be free of ticks and fleas.

Question 10

Can I check on my dog during their stay?

Accepted Answer

We keep an eye on every dog with cameras and give lots of individual attention. Ask us how we’ll keep you posted when you book — we’re always happy to check in.

Question 11

How do I book or reserve a stay?

Accepted Answer

We work by appointment. Send us a reservation request through the contact page, or call the boarding line at (361) 522-0108, and we’ll help you get your dates set.

Question 12

What’s your cancellation and deposit policy?

Accepted Answer

Holiday and summer bookings require a 50% deposit to hold your dates. If you cancel or reschedule close to your booking, that deposit becomes non-refundable — ask us for the exact cut-off when you book so there are no surprises.

Question 13

Do you offer day stays?

Accepted Answer

Yes — day stays run 8am to 5:30pm and are $25. They’re also a great way to introduce a nervous dog to the lodge before booking a longer stay.

Question 14

Do you offer any discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we take 10% off for military, first responders, Border Patrol and DPS. Just mention it when you book.

Frequently asked questions

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