We have been using Best Friends for the past 15 years and have never had a bad experience. When we only had 2 dogs we used them for both grooming and boarding. Our only groomer has been Megan. She takes the time to listen to how I want my dogs to be groomed and even my rescue maltese, who had been extremely abused, actually enjoys going there. Megan took extra care to become his friend and he and she have become good friends. The work areas are clean and without an odor. They have doggie day camp and there are cameras so you can see what is going on at all times. I also appreciate that every year they require proof of vaccinations which is not always the case with other places we had gone to in the past. They keep their boarding areas clean and we were not allowed to bring anything from home that could contain fleas or ticks. Their hours are great (drop off at 8:00 and pickup by 7:00) which was very appreciated when I was working. Even though they were finished by 1:00, it was never a problem if I picked them up at 6:00. I now have 5 dogs and would never hesitate to bring them. If I had only one suggestion, it would be some kind of loyalty club. They used to have one for boarding (not sure if they still do) but it would be wonderful for grooming. After 15 years, it would be nice to receive something back. Perhaps every 10th grooming is free. read more

Over the years I have always had a very positive experience with the Chestnut Ridge Best Friends location. The staff is super kind and professional and my dog always seems to enjoy the group play based on the video interactions. Best Friends has been super reliable and I definitely value their services, and will continue to use them in the future for any trips. read more

We booked it based on the location and nice size of the building. When we walked in our eyes watered from the stench and our noses were horrified. The person there said the employees get used to that odor. We didn't and we wouldn't put our pet through it ever again. How do they stay in business? That stench stayed with us for a day after and thinking about the place gave us the creeps. You have been warned. read more

I brought my Welsh Springer here for grooming, she is 9 months old and was a little anxious how things would go, I spoke to Jackie, about my concerns and she LISTENED to every I said on how I wanted her to be groomed. I received a call a few hours later and my Millie looked great. I asked if she was problem grooming and was told how she reacted to the blower but she did good. My dog was groomed perfectly and I will be bringing her back in the future. The staff at this Pet Hotel were all very nice and professional. I highly recommend this place. read more

DOG OWNERS BEWARE! Im not one to go and write super negative review, but after no communication from management to follow up on my concerns I felt warranted to share my experience. I stopped in to see the facility and I quite about pricing as I would be a new customer. Upon walking in there was a young woman at the counter that didn't even acknowledge that I was standing in front of her. As I continued to wait for her to address me she yelled to someone in the back room that a customer was here, all still never acknowledging me and remaining intent on the screen. At this time another young woman comes out from the side door clearly disheveled and dealing with an issue that required her to ask the woman the front desk to speak with in private. Both then left to the back room, all as if I didn't exist. I waited a few more minutes for someone to appear at the front desk and actually greet me, but to my dismay, no one ever arrived. I am extremely disappointed that this was my experience upon first visiting. I can say that I most certainty will never be bringing my dog there and would not recommend this location for anyone seeking a place to bring their dog. If I was completely ignored by your staff, I can only imagine how you treat your four legged guests. read more

My dog George- loves it here and all of the care takers are so affectionate with him. John the owner is quite courteous and helpful. We use the day camp services and the weekend from time to time. read more

This review is about grooming-only (not boarding). Our dogs have gone to Megan twice now. Besides always coming out super cute, they're calm when we pick them up (which hasn't been the case at other places). This past time in particular, they had just gotten back from a week-long hiking trip- both full of mats and knots- we assumed they'd probably have to be shaved down. They came back brushed and fluffy. Other places have shaved them down over way less- I'm just really happy with how happy they are, and how great they look. Thank you! read more

Best Friends Pet Hotel - Pet Training Near Me - Chestnut Ridge, New York

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Worst Experience last week. When we first walked in our first time in over 2 years, my dog was not even greeted by the staff. She just grabbed his leash and took him straight to the play room. I waited by the front desk assuming we'd have a introduction conversation, but when she came back she just said all set. Didn't ask any questions about "is he good with other dogs, did he eat, what time are you coming back, his vaccines, what's the best number for emergencies" I left and I decided to come back early I just felt like something wasn't right so when I come back I saw on the camera the person In charge of the playroom literally on her phone and my dog trying to play with her and she was pushing him off... When he came out, he was so wet. I asked the guy why was he so wet and he told when the dogs act up we have to spray them with water. Now everyone knows theirs dogs, my dog who is a trained service dog who I send to daycare for some fun time off and socialization should not be soaking wet. I couldn't get an answer as to why my dog was so wet when I picked him up. I can understand maybe a spritz or two. But super wet? So heart breaking. Will never bring my dog back read more

IIf you ever want to see your loving family pet again DO NOT board your pet here!!! I brought our family pet here, thinking he would have a safe and fun stay. How wrong I was!! I received a call, the fourth day into my vacation explaining my friend and beloved family member had died. This call was very non chalant and unemotional, no remorse at all. Not the reaction I expected from a place that preach's love and concern for all animals. Believe me when I say they are in it for only your $$$. Please do not leave your beloved pet here!!!!! read more

I've called and left several messages as well as multiple emails and have not heard back from Best Friends. I am, however, permanently signed up for their newsletter. read more

Only one stay here and was pleased. My dog was happy and staff was friendly. Facility looks clean and other dogs in view all looked happy and good. read more

Water seemed rarely freshened in this caged prison camp for pets. We took our dogs there and used their day camp. Lately always terrible. Day camp was pitiful. read more

Loveeeee Best Friends Doggy Day Camp and Boarding too! They are the nicest people and they are great with my dog! It's nice to not have to worry about my dog while I am at work so I bring him there! You can watch your dog on the computer if you like too to see how they are playing.. my dog usually sleeps all day but at least he is with his friends and not hone alone! I highly recommend Best Friends in Chestnut Ridge!!! read more

This was the worst experience of my life. They advertise that your pet will have a better vacation than you..not! We brought our dog to this place and from the moment we checked in everything was awful. We walked in and for starters they had misplaced someones dog. The man in the waiting room was panicking and the manager was very uncaring. We went through all the steps on what we wanted for our pet as an add on to our play and stay package for the next three days. Our dog is also on a raw diet and explained about the food needing to be refrigerated. They seemed very accommodating to this request. All seemed great so we left. I had an uneasy feeling with all the commotion happening so I just wanted to call and confirm all was ok and that hey remembered to put the raw food in the refrigerator. I called several times and no one answered the phone. Finally, after a half an hour of trying the manager answered the phone and when I asked him to confirm about everything we asked for for Stella he said he had nothing in the system. We went over everything once again and he said he'd make sure the food was refrigerated. The next day while on vacation we decided to turn on the cameras to watch our dog in the play area. I went online every 15 minutes for the entire day and not one dog was in the play area. I called that day and they said the dogs would be in there shortly they were just walking them all. The dogs never went into the play group. Feeling uneasy, I called back the place and no one answered for hours. We decided to pick our dog up early and got to the pet hotel and I was told that the dogs never went into the playgroup because one of the dogs were sick. The gentleman who greeted me mentioned we were supposed to be told that when we checked our dog in because one of the dogs was coughing. So much for the play and stay package. Lastly, they brought us out a rotten food and it was gray. They fed our dog rotten stale meat. We brought our dog home and within 24 hours she had kennel cough. The next day We took her to the doctor it cost us $480. Everything about this experience was absolutely awful! When I called the manager to tell him my dog was sick he told me they had 75 dogs to worry about and unfortunately they're overwhelmed and understaffed. They did credit us for the stay but this ended up costing us a lot more money. The kicker to all this is they called us the next day after we picked up our dog and asked us what time we were getting our dog. They are completely unorganized. I 100% do not recommend anyone putting their animal in this facility until they get their act together! So much for my dog having a better vacation than me... Both were ruined. John the manager is uncaring, nasty and his employee all said he IS the problem! read more

Disappointed and frighteningly bad experience. We experienced poor customer service when dropping off and picking up our 2 dogs for a 9 day stay (=$1000) and I fear that they neglected our dogs while in their care. When picking up our dogs, the women at the desk was all business - did not tell us how they did or anything about their stay. They had the wrong pick up day in their computer and didn't bathe or groom the dogs. Our older dog had urine stained fur on her legs and her hair grown over her eyes (only has one eye so already had limited vision) and she had trouble standing !! She kept falling over ! When we left her there she was fine and mobile. She became extremely deconditioned during her stay and lost weight. However, after a few days at home, she grew stronger and can now stand and walk again and is almost back to her old self. Beware !! I feel terrible that I did not do my HW & look at the more recent reviews (we had boarded our dogs here in past w positive experiences). No more ! read more

Nearly killed my small dog. After a short stay there my sweet Boston terrier came home lethargic and vomiting. Vet could not determine what had happened to her stomach or if she had been drugged with something like Benadryl. After 2,000 in vet fees and iv bags for my baby, she made a full recovery. When asked for reimbursement from this place they gaslit me for several weeks clearly having no intentions of paying me even though they said they have their own insurance for each pet that that stays. The worst place ever!!! I wouldn't give any stars if I could. read more

Holy Horrible experience. First of all...not clean. Secondly, when we picked up our dog she was stressed out and not excited to see us. Then as we were leaving I took her to relieve herself before we got into the car. She shit blood. All of her treats were gone her food was gone and the manager couldn't understand the blood. The manager...what an insensitive unfriendly man. After dropping $500 I am now heading to the vet to see why my dog is now shitting blood. Did I mention the place was dirty? Never again, Laila. I'm sorry we trusted this place. read more

The Team of Best Friends Chestnut Ridge is an absolute pleasure and trusting group of professionals. My orange tabby is scared of new places and especially new people and very much prefers to never leave home. They are such an Intuned bunch, that they made him feel right at home since the moment he met them. For boarding, I can fully trust that during the time I am away, that the care my little guy receives is wholeful, ethical and morally sound. I am so thankful to know that he is well cared for everytime he spends time with them whether it is for boarding or grooming. Best Friends offers additional services that fit the specific needs for our pets, these little additions makes my pets stay more personable and keeps me sure that he is getting that extra attention he needs. Garfield LOVEs Megan and Megan, Denise and Laurel!!!!!! read more

I boarded my dog here after using the place for 10 plu s years. It seemed to be unkept. The staff was lacking and they immediately put my dog in a cage. It is not what it used to be. I do not think I will be using them in the future. read more

Earlier this month of August 2021, we left our six-year old dog for several days as we had done in the past.  We immediately noticed a dramatic change in the appearance, care, and the check-in and check-out experience from prior visits, including one in early June.  Our dog will never be returning after years of loyalty to a once great place.  Specifically: -The lobby was very dirty with dog hair balls all over and the same garbage bags and dirty bedding against the walls during both check-in and out.  This was over several days.  The desk was very cluttered and no paperwork was prepared for us as in the past.  Outside the garbage can and front lawn was littered with bags of feces both times we went. -The only person there was the new manager, John.  Apparently, he has just taken over a short time ago.  It is interesting that although management has changed, the website still lists Bob as the manager. -It appeared that there was an absence of staff.  The small dog room off the lobby was in disarray and unmanned, empty at first and then with one lone dog on a dirty cot when we returned.  Each day we tuned into the video cam, often it was not on.  On our last day over several hours, we saw no one in the large playroom on camera with the dogs (about 12 large dogs and about 7 smaller ones in the small fenced in entry area). -While our dog's diet, etc., was confirmed with John upon check-in, her wet food was still in the bag we left.  So she only got half her food.  She was super hungry when she got home. -When we checked out, John was there alone again and he went to get our dog and brought out the wrong dog without any tag.  He went back for our dog and brought her out without the neck tag that was put on when we dropped her off. -We paid for a bath, but she was really dirty.  John insisted that she was bathed and charged us.  She had really dirty, wet paws and her face and eyes had the same stains.  Since I took pictures before we dropped her and after pick-up, I knew she was not bathed.  We have had her groomed here before and she always smells great and has a scarf or bow - what a difference. I have shared these details at Chesnut Ridge.  I tried to reach Best Friends headquarters, but there is no number or email to reach for customer service.  I tried Facebook and left a message there requesting a call back, but no one has answered in the past few weeks so I am now writing this review to warn others of my concerns. What happened to this place? read more

My baby looked beautiful and smelled wonderful after her grooming. We use Best Friends of Chestnut Ridge NY for day camp too, my two years old rescue are always very happy to go there. read more

My dog was attending Doggie Day Care at this establishment for a couple of months. At first things seemed to be great. However, when watching the video camera it was plain to see that there were way too many dogs for the workers. There would be about 20 for every person. There were constantly things going on that should not have been. They have outside facilities but the dogs are never brought outside, they are stuck in one room all day. The last time I was there my dog was put in a kennel for an afternoon of rest which occasionally was the case when dogs want to settle down but can't find the space in a hectic room. When I picked her up she seemed completely out of it and smelled awful. They claimed she stepped in something and they washed her feet. When I got her home I realized she had gotten sick and they failed to tell me or clean her stomach. Long story short I have to rush my dog to the vet after hours, because they did not feel it important to tell me she was not feeling well. Never again. read more

I took my dog Woody here today to be groomed. It's a pretty big building on a country road. I thought the entrance and grooming areas were clean. Woody didn't panic when we went there. He seemed to sense that the people here would take good care of him. Grooming takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. When my husband picked him up and brought him home he looked liked a new dog! He was sparkly clean and his coat was trimmed nice and short for summer. They give you $10 off for the first time you bring your dog there. I will bring Woody here agin and will use them for boarding if we go away. read more

They dote on the dogs. I feel like the dogs come home from a stay at this kennel less traumatized than when they stay at other kennels. But you do pay a ton for this peace of mind. I like that they have group play sessions for dogs that are good with dogs. My dogs love playing with other dogs. The grooming is a little hit and miss. The haircutting skills are a bit sloppy, but at least the dogs come home clean. Once, one of the mutts got skunked and this shop was able to de-skunk the little dummy. That was nice. read more

When I first called for the puppy play group the girl on the phone was amazing and then told me to call on Tuesday when they had it. Here it is Tuesday and I have been constantly calling for 45mins . Why can no one answer the phone here , I doubt no one has been around in the 45minute time. This is the second time I have tried and they just lack actually helping people . read more

Stay away!!!!! this place is not what it used to be years ago!!!! Horrible management!!!! My dog 13 year old husky was injured horribly in there care. They had nothing to say of what happened or anything!!! please stay away if you want your dogs in good care while boarding read more

Blu loves visiting Best Friends. The staff is kind and caring and she loves playing with the other dogs. Their groomers are outstanding. You can tell that they genuinely care for the pets they work with everyday. I never worry when she's there. I highly recommend Best Friends. read more

Great home away from home. Loved daily puppy playtime !! I could see my pup on live webcast! Zoey was a happy camper!! Loved the "go for a walk" option. Staff is caring and wonderful. Great pricing read more

My dogs always look happy and clean when I come to pick them up. I always know that they are safe and cared for while I am away. I have tried home care. That turned out to be disastrous. This is by far the best place for my "girl". Peace of mind is priceless. read more

Im so happy we found this place for my dog. They are very nice and they will give your dog affection and attention. The dogs are able to play in groups during the day and always have someone with a close eye on the group. The best part is you can peek in and check on yr dog via their live web cam during play group hours. If there are a lot of dogs they will have two groups - larger and smaller dogs but if not they will have them together ...as long as everyone is behaving. At night they have very large runs with fresh water and beds. You can also do add on play time, treats or grooming, etc. its a nice cheery atmosphere .. i find it to be clean, and a great staff! read more

Someone should explain to Susanne (MGR) that Plausible Deniability does not = Customer Service. On more than one occasion, they failed to administer medications correctly although, given detailed instructions. Yesterday when I picked up my dog after a 7 day stay, I made the mistake of not thoroughly inspecting her. Minutes after returning home, my wife, gave her a thorough look over and found that my dog had a cut on her neck and her nails where not trimmed and I was charged for grooming even though it was supposed to be a courtesy prior to pickup. No one explained to me that something happened to my dog while she was there. And when I returned to show them, the staff tried to say that it was an "old cut". The manager, instead of taking responsibility and apologize, employed her training masterfully in attempt to create plausible deniability. read more

We have been taking our dog to Best Friends for several years and up until now would have given them a glowing review. Every time we've taken him for boarding recently, however, there has been a lot of confusion at the site. One time we were told we could drop him off at 8, when in fact they didn't open until 9 so we sat there for an hour waiting when we had to get someplace. Our most recent experience was really bad, however. There was an unpleasant odor in the building when we arrived to pick him up. Then it took quite a while for them to bring him out. When he finally appeared, he was shaking like a leaf whereas in the past there he's always been happy and calm. I asked if they had any idea why and the gentlemen at the desk shrugged and said "I guess he's nervous." They had failed to bring out the bag with his supplies so we had to ask (and wait, again) for it. When we got home we discovered that his Kong was missing and based on the amount of food left over it seemed they might have missed a feeding or two. Finally, his fur felt as if he had been groomed, which we specifically asked them not to do because it makes him nervous (which may have explained his shaking). We will not be bringing him there again. read more

We used them before for a puppy playgroup to socialize our new puppy during the pandemic. We brought her here for four playgroups and my puppy's behavior began to change. She was shyer and quiet and we have a border collie and no way are they shy or quiet. But we noticed she was getting more skiddish around other dogs. Her last playgroup there we picked her up and she was catatonic. Turns out they don't separate playgroups and let the babies run with the big dogs. We were originally told we could tap into cameras but for some reason they weren't working or weren't provided to playgroups. Our best guess is our puppy was involved in an issue with a bigger dog because since then, she is terrified of big dogs. Also the girls that work at the venue are just there to work with their friends. I've talked to other parents who have said that they sit on their phones the whole time and will sometimes let fights play out and let the dogs fend for themselves. Disgusting. read more

Double dachshunds- our two dogs got to stay together in the same suite and they came home happy and healthy. We opted for the day of departure bath-- so they looked great too. read more

Sabrina loves coming to Best Friends, she starts barking when we pull into the driveway. All the staff know her, (hmm, wonder why), she has a great time playing with her friends. We moved to Pennsylvania, but we still come back to Best Friends, wouldn't go anywhere else. read more

Vert expensive and my dog was filthy when i picked him up. Second time i picked up and nt dog was not in group play although i pay extra for it. read more

I board my three dogs here several times a year. They come home happy and looking great from their grooming. We have had an incident here and there, but the staff has called to inform us. After all, dogs will be dogs read more

I don't usually write reviews or share my thoughts.. But today I want everyone to know about this place, and what happened so doesn't happen to another family. This place KILLED MY DOG last Sunday leaving a (Golden Common) Dog unleashed, unattended, he attacked my Yorkshire during his walk with his brother a Husky (who trained) my baby boy Brownie was Turing 5 years next month. My Brownie was transferred to the hospital and got a hole in the lungs, he got surgery and was transferred to Oradell Animal Hospital and he passed away on Wednesday, August 4th. This place are unprofessional, they called telling me that my dog attacked another dog and he just need stitches, Never mentioned he's in "critical condition". We noted that our dog isn't friendly with other dogs, how come you just leave an unattended dog, unleashed, on a walk to attack other dogs. This dog is definitely not okay, they call him trained dog. He ended up killing my baby. they left dog attacking other dog. and my other dog, who saw the entire accident, is depressed since he lost his brother. read more

We love Best Friends and I have recommended them to many other people who feel the same way! The workers are awesome and they love the animals! I only have good things to say about Best Friends in Chestnut Ridge, NY! I take my 5 year old poodle there for doggy day care and to board as well and they are really great! I have tried them all in the past before Best Friends, but trust me this is really the BEST! read more

We have used Best Friends in the past with all our previous dogs and our current dog. Our current dog does suffer from seizures but it is controlled with medication. We are scheduled to go away in 2 weeks and we called to confirm our reservation and the new manager says they are cancelling our reservation because of her health issue. When were they going to let us know. ....what if we did not confirm the appointment? We would have been screwed! Very disappointed! I suggest checking if they have changed any other policies before you go back! The new manager needs to realize they will be losing business and I will not recommend them any more! read more