This is a wonderful place for our fur baby. No kennels, no runs. When I drop her off for day care...she cant wait to go through the door, and that makes me happy. read more

Our dog Clyde has been going to Kara's for 2 years now, and he absolutely LOVES Kara's! He mopes around in the morning until we ask him if he wants to go to Kara's then he's full of bouncy goofiness! And he comes home very happy and exhausted. Kara and her staff are amazing and so friendly! Our dogs love being boarded there as well, and we have always felt comfortable leaving them there when we go out of town for a day or two, or even over a week. They also occasionally get groomed there when we are too lazy to do it ourselves. We can't imagine taking our dog anywhere else, and the pricing is really fair as well! They also offer a taxi service for pick up / drop off, which is great in a pinch! read more

See all

Kara's is the best place for your dog! I've been going here for 3 years and they're the only ones I trust. They treat dogs like dogs, not a number. They pups get to play with each other and really learn how to interact. This is the best place to acclimate your pup and get them to socialize. My Gracie Lou really loves going here. They trained her so well to the point where she helped the new pups acclimate to Kara's. Im sad to move, but they really did an awesome job. Thanks so much! C read more

I first want to say I am sure most people will not read the full review, and this most likely will not affect the business or other puppy parents for going to this place. I will begin with the staff as they present themselves kindly. The facilities themselves are pup-friendly and somewhat engaging. This place may be great for young and low-maintenance dogs; however, if your dog an ANY extra needs, please think twice before coming here. Unfortunately, my experience here has been one of the worst I've had when it comes to boarding and doggie daycare. I took my pups there, which are all rescues -2 of which I rescued after they were more than 2 years old. When I first called to inquire about their facilities and how they operate, I was given incorrect information, even after I had scheduled my "evaluation" date. On this first call, I gave them some information about my dogs. Fast forward to "observation" day. As I am on my way, they call and inform me that there was a mixup and that my dogs were not allowed to be seen because "per policy, all documents needed to be submitted and verified beforehand." Again, at this time, I gave them even more information about my dogs, behaviors, mannerisms, and the dogs' background - one of my dogs had been returned twice to the humane society. The other one was abandoned after having a family for 2 years. Fast forward to the 2nd scheduled "observation" date. Again, I talked to staff, letting them know MORE information about my dogs. If you can't already tell, I was hesitant to leave them because I know that my pups aren't angles, but I also know they need a lot of patience. Staff reported that everything is fine and great, with no issues. Daycare day came and went with no problems. I dropped them off for boarding, once again talking to staff given them verbal and written directions about the pup's food, medication, and behaviors. The team assured me that they would put the written instructions for the medication on a cabinet so that whoever was working would see them and follow them. Fast forward to the day I pick up my pups. The morning of pick up ( 5+ hours awake, 3+ hours into my work which is an hour out of town), the owner calls me, and the first two sentences out of her mouth were, " Hi, are you so and so's mom?" I say yes, and she continues, "I want to say that your pups have been behaving, but they haven't." She continued to give me information about how poorly my dogs were behaving and started that they had been separated from all the other dogs. As I said before, my dogs have their issues I am fully aware of them. At this point, her tone and lack of compassion had me feel like a terrible dog mom. For the rest of the day, until I could pick up my dogs, they were separated. Once I arrived to pick them up, I asked for the medication bottles, only to find that one dog only received 1 out of 2 medications. The other dog with terrible anxiety wasn't given two dosages of her anxiety medication (Prozac). I also packed my dogs 31 cups of food (knowing that there should be leftovers because they don't eat the first two meals when they are in a new place), and apparently, they ate all 31 cups. Let me break down the math - 3 dogs, 5 days there with 3/4 cups of food twice a day (again, instructions written on the bags). Each dog would have eaten 1.5 cups of food per day for 5 days, and 3 dogs should be about 22.5 cups of food, leaving an extra 8.5 cups- again 2 of them do not eat the first night (I know this because I know my dogs- every time I leave them for boarding they don't eat the first night). Afterward, I call the owner to talk with her about the situation now that I am off work. She informed me that one of my dogs had been having behaviors the whole weekend. Rather than calling me and informing me of what was happening, they attempted to "handle it." making the situation go from bad to worst. And that my 14-year-old dog was trying to "mount" another dog. Sadly dogs mount other dogs- it's like saying that a child screamed at another child; it happens. Furthermore, she went on to tell me how important it is for dogs to come to the facilities twice before boarding them. I informed her that my dogs had been there twice for 2 full days (6-7 hours each day), and she did not respond. Finally, my pups were diagnosed with kennel cough, and I was never given an invoice like I was told I would be receiving. read more

I'm not from this area and needed to quickly find a place to board my 15 month old female Cane Corso puppy. I did an online search and found Kara's to be ideal because of the type of service they offered. I completed the application and waited for someone to call me back-no one did. Later that day, I called to make sure everything was okay, they apologized stating it has been a busy day. After reviewing my application, there were two more items needed before I could bring her in for actual evaluation. Once this was completed, I called back and it was like I was starting the application process all over. I talked to Dani, the assistant manager, who was very professional, answered my questions and guided me thorough all the steps. She made me feel at ease and was very accommodating since I explained my situation to her. When I dropped my dog off the next morning, it took a little while before someone finally showed up to check us in and while waiting another lady came to pick up her dog. It took the staff even longer before they even acknowledged her, and it seems like there was confusion as to who was taking care of her-no one was. That afternoon, when I picked up my dog, I talked with Dani and she was surprised how well behaved my dog was and felt there would be no boarding issues. My second visit was scheduled for Monday, one day before I would be boarding her. I got a call that Friday evening to see if it would be possible to bring my dog in for daycare over the weekend for an additional evaluation to ease some concerns the owner had. I brought her in; she stayed the day and again the staff reported no problems. Monday morning I dropped her off for the final scheduled evaluation. That afternoon when I went to pick her up, a 'new' young lady asked me if I just wanted this visit billed to my account-which I explained to her this was part of the evaluation and was no charge. I was going to be gone for a week, and was told I would be given updates. I sent an email asking about her, but never received a response. However, I did get emails about my account balance and a rejection notice, stating they couldn't board her until I did the other day care evaluation, mind you she was already being boarded. During the week I called to check on her and a young man quickly responded how well "he" (my dog) was doing. When I dropped my dog off, I went over her feeding schedule and expressed my concerns about other dogs eating her food and vice versa, but was reassured that all the dogs are separated and eat alone. I found it odd that when I picked her up, none of her dry food was returned, though three of the wet packets were. This meant she didn't get her pack a day mixed with her dry food as instructed. Since being home nearly a week now she has had diarrhea and very soft stools. She caught kennel cough and has spread it to my two smaller dogs, who were not boarded. This along with the poor communication for updates and other information make this a "no-go" establishment. I really thought Kara's K9 would be a good fit, but unfortunately I can't recommend them nor will I further support or utilize their services. read more

Not sure who loves Kara (and Kara's) more. Me or my pup. The day she gets to go is her absolute FAVORITE!!! All of the staff members are incredibly welcoming and kind, know every dog & owner well, and even email you pictures of your pup's fun day. They are quick to accommodate (though do give advanced notice as best as you can) and do everything they can to help you. We'll be team Kara's for life! read more

I cannot say enough good things about Kara and her staff, they are the absolute best! My dog does not do well at daycare but Kara personally tried her very best to ease my dog into it. While in the end we weren't successful, I would not hesitate to recommend Kara's K9. Kara and her staff are patient, flexible, kind, and LOVE dogs! They also offer a dog taxi and you can make arrangements to have your pup picked up and dropped off for your convenience. read more

super friendly staff who genuinely care for your pup! I have medium-big size 2.5 year old pup and he absolutely loves this place! he's always so excited to go in the morning and so exhausted when I pick him up! definitely recommend, you're dog will thank you for it! read more

Kara's K9 will forever be the place I send my fur babies. The first time I ever had to board a dog, I was terrified. I was attracted to Kara's, because of the "cage-free" aspect. I tested it out with my first dog Banks and we immediately fell in love. Kara's took care of my baby like he was their own for 2 years. He suddenly passed away and everyone at Kara's made me a memory book of him. If that doesn't demonstrate how much these people care, I don't know what will. You will not find better customer service, friendlier staff or a better dog paradise in San Antonio. I am now boarding my new dog Otis there and plan to do the same with all my dogs to come. 10/10 recommend. read more

This place was great. We were visiting San Antonio for a few days and needed a place for our dogs to hang out during the day. The staff here was friendly and kept us informed about how our dogs were doing. Our dogs do a lot of traveling with us and so they stay at a lot of different doggie daycare places. This place had to be one of the best with regards to their customer service. If we ever go back to San Antonio we would definitely use this place for our dogs again. read more

Kara's K-9 Retreat has been a life safer in so many ways! I have a one year old lab puppy, who needless to say has a bit of energy. I'm a work alcoholic that was initially hesitant to get a dog, but after researching and visiting a couple different daycares across the city found that Kara's would be the right fit for us. I have utilized Kara's cage free facility for daycare (at least twice a week) and boarding for almost a year. In addition, their taxi services have been a wonderful bonus on those days that I travel and cannot take the dog in, or for the days that I cannot seem to leave my office early enough to pick him up. Coming home having to wake up the dog to eat is just unbelievable - I cannot even imagine the fun that this dog has each time he is there to be that exhausted from playing with his friends. Not to mention, how wonderful his manners and behavior has improved with coaching from the staff. Their entire staff's professionalism and LOVE for what they do is quite evident. The words "daycare" and "Kara's" cannot be said in front of the dog without him going bonkers. In fact, if you want to see how much the dogs love Kara's - just watch each dog run into the facility with excitement and impatiently wait to be allowed into daycare. It really is fantastic to have a place like Kara's to send my dog - couldn't imagine taking him anywhere else as each visit completely exceeds my expectations!! read more

We have been so very happy with Kara's! The staff is super responsive, kind, and diligent in their care of our girl, Sadie R.!! If there is any question or concern, I receive a call. We highly recommend Kara's, her staff. I echo other reviewers in the cleanliness of the facility and the general health and well being of the dogs. Judy R. read more

I have a 5 month old dachsund mix Wrigley that has TONS of energy. I initially brought him in so that he would have a place to go if I'm ever out of town however, after trying a half day, we were both hooked. I would take him every day if I could. It is so convenient to drop him off for either a whole or half day and not worry about him. Every time I pick him up he is so exhausted from playing and falls asleep the second we get in the car. Everyone at Karas is super caring and extremely nice. I am so glad we decided to check out Kara's and highly recommend it!! read more

I think Kara's really exemplifies the level of detail that small businesses afford the customer over the big box type establishments. Our pooch spends his days here for the same reason I shop at Bjorn's for TVs and speakers as opposed to Best Buy. For pretty much the same price you'd pay for boarding or "doggie day camp" at the local chains, your best friend here gets personalised attention, a safe environment, and staff that genuinely cares about the wellbeing of their four legged guests. The bath options ensure your pup won't stink up the back seat on your way home and are all a good value. I've dropped my dog off here over a dozen times and have never had an incident, he's always happy to come back, and I'm always happy to have a locally owned small business where I'm comfortable leaving my best bud for the day. read more

I started bringing my dogs here after a recommendation from a friend and I'm so glad I did. My dogs absolutely love it here. It is very clean and I've never had any problems. Kara is so sweet and great with my dogs. They always get really great baths too and cute little scarfs. I would definitely recommend this place. read more

Thank goodness for Kara's K9! Our sweet pup, Bella, loves loves loves her time there. She jumps out of the car in the morning and we pick her up happy and spent in the afternoon. The staff (each person!) is so friendly that I look forward to the drop offs and pick ups. They take the cleanliness of the facility and health of the dogs very seriously, and they partner with our vet to ensure all her shots are up to date. This is for the sake of everyone and every dog. Can't say how much we appreciate the cage free, dog-loving atmosphere. We feel confident she is in good hands whether for day care or the occasional overnight when we travel. Thank you Kara and team! read more

Kara's K9 retreat is a wonderfully located, friendly and clean space for dogs to play! We went yesterday and dropped our 5 month old puppy off there for his first experience playing and the staff could not have been more welcoming and friendly. They spend all day with dogs so learn to read their cues and give dogs their space when needed, quiet when required and close supervision while they're out and about running and playing! I watched the staff love on some dogs, hold a few, play with others and appropriately distance tired or overwhelmed puppies as needed. Their separate building and space for their younger dogs is amazing and I would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a drop off dog sitter or boarding! read more

Kara's is exactly what I hoped for in a daycare. They are extremely customer service oriented and treated my dog like their own. The faculty is clean and safe as well. They also have a taxi service, which is perfect in case you get held up at work. I highly recommend this doggy daycare! read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about Kara's. I was so nervous to leave my two year old yellow lab at doggie daycare for the first time but everyone at Kara's helped me to feel so comfortable. They called with updates and were so understanding with my worry! My lab LOVED it and came home so wonderfully exhausted. I now take my lab every day. He can't get out of the car fast enough! Everyone who works at Kara's goes over and above for the dogs and for their owners. They know every personality trait of their daycare dogs and understand how to create happy and loving environment. read more

So happy we came across Kara's! Our girl Lola is always happy to go to Kara's for some playtime. She's always tail wagging happy when I pick her up. No sooner do I turn the corner after picking her up and she's sound asleep. Kara's makes her day fun and our family knows she's loved and being watched over. A HUGE THANK YOU to the staff for all they do to make our fur babies feel loved and happy. read more

This place is amazing. I moved to San Antonio from El Paso and knew that I would be working a job with a lot of hours. Even before my arrival to San Antonio Karas staff insured all my questions were answered and that my puppy would be in great hands! They really go above and beyond for dogs and thier owners!!! read more

Best kennel I've ever used in 25 years of having dogs all over the country and world. A last minute work trip while on vacation in San Antonio left me searching for a quality place to leave my 4-legged family member. Rob was incredibly accommodating and I was able to travel secure in the knowledge that my pup was well cared for. Every aspect of my interaction with the staff was a pleasurable experience, and my dog was happy, healthy, clean, and exhausted after 2 days of boarding. I cannot speak highly enough of this facility, and wish that I were a local so that we could be regulars. read more

We are so impressed and happy to have had our two dogs be boarded at Kara's K9 Retreat. This spotless, safe environment was perfect for our little bichon/maltese pups. For us, while we were away, we wanted to assure that our little guys were able to get lots of exercise and playtime with other dogs--and they did. Kara is not only friendly and accommodating, but also demonstrates a high level of expertise and attention when caring for her full house. We were also happy to have picked them up bathed and looking better than when we dropped them off. read more

Kara's K9 Retreat has exceeded every and any expectation I've ever had for dog care. Kara and her staff go above and beyond consistently week in and week out. I would recommend this daycare easily over Lucy's or Camp Bow any day of the week. My golden-doodle (Murphy) is beyond ecstatic when we pull up to drop him off at Kara's. read more

After highest recommendation from our awesome veterinarian, I took my seven month old puppy to Kara's today. I could not be happier with the place (it's spotless) and the staff (lovely, loving, amazing). Puppy played hard and had a great time, having been very well taken care of all day. Signed up for a package of day care visits and made reservations for boarding. Needles to say, we will frequent Kara's K9 Retreat! read more

I was recommended to Kara's by her sister, who runs a similar doggy day care in Dallas, which is where I lived prior to San Antonio. I started taking my dog to Kara's about a month after she opened, and I wouldn't dream of taking him anywhere else. He can be shy around other dogs, but Kara always makes sure he gets plenty of attention and feels comfortable. She finds things that he likes to do and makes sure they're available for him when he wants to play. It is 100% worth it to me to pay a little extra for day care and boarding to be able to have the mobile number of the owner in my phone and know that someone so wonderful is watching out for my boy. read more