Just picked up my dog (10:15 am) after boarding her here for three nights. She's fine, & was super happy to see me, but peed for like 3 minutes when she got out of the car. Then she went out in the backyard, ran around like crazy then tried to poop for the next 5 minutes. (She did, just multiple attempts). Then drank half a bowl full of water. So it's obvious she was not let out this morning & didn't have enough water. On top of this, I was unable to pick her up last night after hours, despite being told I could but with an additional fee, which I was ok with. I'm certainly not happy with her care or their policies. read more

I had kenneled my dog here for about a week during Thanksgiving week, and he always loves coming here. He was happy going in and happy coming out. They always take care of my dog here. What's more is that right after Thanksgiving I ended up in the hospital in fact, it was the day I picked up my dog. The next day they took him back in for a little over a week to watch him for me with no notice, plus giving me extra time after they closed to pick him up. I've had nothing but good experiences here. read more

My labradoodle has been here twice to stay, and once for a bath and grooming. The first stay was questionable in that I specifically asked them to analyze my dog and allow her to play with others. I only found out this was not done when our medical 'vacation' had to be extended and while on the phone I asked how she played with others, knowing it would be a positive event. They went, "Oops." Second stay went without a hitch. The staff are very friendly, they know our names, and I think all in all, it is a decent place for my fur baby. Reading the negative reviews does out me on a alert, and that is not a bad thing, considering this IS MY BABY. I don't feel the shots and vaccinations are a bad thing, not requiring them could lead to some hefty problems with angry clients who insist their dog caught whatever while in their care. Next time she ahs to stay, I will be inquiring as to whether there is staff on board during the night. I feel that is important! read more

Used to love this place. My dog loved being here too. They're requiring pets to be over vaccinated to board now. It's "their policy." Per my vet, my dog does not NEED all they're asking for. My Vet very nicely informed and verified to me that and stated it's unfortunate that UPR has this policy as it's not needed. You lost my dog forever. We used to take him twice a year at least before the pandemic, when we had to minimize travel. From the looks of their reviews, the seem to be declining. So sad. I hope it's not new management 'cuz they're messing it up for everyone. The caretakers love my dog. Now they won't be able to see him ever again. I was able to reserve with Valley Animal Hospital and they DID NOT require extra vaccines 'cuz not needed. Go figure. read more

Never a Disappointment/ Great Staff and Young people as Helpers. Always helpful with a clean environment with reasonable prices. Love that my Dog ‍ can be on its own runner inside and out. The Cats are Nice to See from the lobby. Beautiful dogs and cats as well as the Staff read more

I took my dog Pinky to University Pet Resort last month because they previously took care of my cat. However, when I got there with Pinky all of the dogs were barking uncontrollably making her uncomfortable and it gave me a bad feeling. She was fine when I checked in the first night but the morning I was supposed to pick her up, I received a voicemail from them with a serious matter. I called back immediately and talked to Beth (the manager) and she told me that Pinky was out on the yard and she escaped through a hole in the fence that they didn't realize was there and ran into the orchards across the street. Pinky is my emotional support dog and I've had her for 10 years so she is family to me. I immediately drove to University Pet Resort(over 2 hours from my job) and searched the orchards for 3 days. Staff [Sarah and Beth] and even their family members helped me search, mostly on the first day. When there was no sign of her, I suggested a lost pet detective but they only offered to pay for half (it was over $1,000 per day). A good Samaritan found Pinky after nearly running her over in the orchards almost 3 days after she was lost, before the pet detective could come to Merced.  I am giving University Pet Resort 1-star because they didn't take adequate responsibility for my dog. They were blaming the incident on Pinky for being nervous. They're supposed to be the "professionals". Not only that, but they take off all of the dog's collars as soon as they arrive to the resort. What a lousy policy. They need to take more preventative measures in the future.  Save yourself the heartache and don't take your dog or cat to University Pet Resort. read more

I had a horrible experience with your Resort You lost one of dogs Buddy I have boarded my four dogs for the first time on Friday June 16th 2023 on Sunday June18th 2023 I received a call while I was out of town telling me that Buddy has gone missing from the resort we immediately returned back to the resort and to my surprise we were not able to communicate with the manager or someone with authority to make decisions as we wanted to know what their plan of action was to find Buddy as the resort is located on a very busy highway and hundreds of acres of farmland and every minute counts on finding Buddy we were not able to speak to the manager since the Resort did not have a plan of action, tools, emergency procedures and it was a priority on finding Buddy we immediately started our search with the assistance of Family, friends, Paw Patrol , social media , and neighbors we search from morning till late in the evening all week I was fortunate enough to find Buddy on Friday June 23rd at 6.00 am during our search when inquiring about Buddy the neighbors told us that the Resort had lost dogs several times before needless to say I will not be taking my dogs back to as your Resort has failed us in providing quality services read more

If I can give this resort a negative rating I would. Not only do they not have a set of standard operating procedures in which they abide by and they lack costumer service etiquette towards concerned animal owners. Extremely disappointed with the lack of communication, professionalism and accountability from supervisor/staff. Not sure how they call themselves #1 Pet Resort in Merced. Please be aware that no one stays over night and dogs can go over 14 hrs with out eating or taken to go potty. Upon picking up our dog today I looked through the villa room window and noticed his bed wasn't in there. We bring him his own bed because the last time we picked him up we noticed a limp when he walked. We weren't notified of any injury or accident and assumed sleeping on the concrete would be causing him stiffness. I asked the supervisor on-site and she told me that he pee'd on the bed so she threw it in the washer. Our dog is trained and he has never had an accident. This was concerning and thats when I found out that he had gone 14hrs with out being taken out. They have you fill out paperwork for feeding windows that they do not adhere to due to them more concerned with leaving at the end of the work day rather than meeting the animals needs. We were told initially that our dog would be fed those times. He was fed around 3pm yesterday and around 9am this morning. After addressing these concerns with them today they responded with "if you're not happy with our services don't bring him here anymore". Their lack of accountability is negligent and concerning. Please do not entrust them with your fur baby and find a different place. read more

The Pet Resort is OK but has a scam going with the vet next door. Told me on the phone that my dog needed up to $900 in surgery for an "infected foot." I said no. . . and then was abused, told I had cursed staff, a complete lie. (I've never cursed anybody!) ALSO do not trust their grooming arrangements. They had dog for SIX nights of boarding and still couldn't get organized to groom her. We both survived but certainly won't be going back. (If you call, while on hold, they subject you to a long lecture about being polite to their staff--who are rude and slanderous and unreliable.) read more

I'm so torn about this place. Is it convenient? Yes. Is it cheap compared to some of the boarders I've left my dog with? Absolutely. And are there very many pet boarding options to choose from in Merced? No, unfortunately. But every time I leave my dogs here something happens that makes me doubt this place. This last particular time, when I dropped them off, I learned that both of their beds wouldn't fit in their kennel, which is strange because their beds are smaller than their bodies - so if the beds don't fit, I'm not sure how they are both supposed to sleep in there together overnight. When I picked them up, they both had on the wrong collars and now I'm reading from another reviewer that the collars are taken off as soon as they arrive. I cannot understand any justification for this. The only time I ever remove my dogs' collars are during baths. What happens when a dog gets loose or they need to separate two dogs? How do you grab them without the collar? Makes zero sense. Also, there was a lot of food leftover when I went to go pick them up and I had measured their food out to about the exact amount they would need, plus an extra scoop for just in case, plus I put the scooper I use in the bag with their food and wrote how many scoops they each get on the bag. What was left was much more than an extra scoop each. I also cannot understand why they're closed all weekend. Sundays are a standard pickup day since most of us work M-F. So when I go on trips, I have to pay for 2 extra days (Friday and Monday) because they aren't taking dogs on Saturday or allowing pickups on Sunday. I always feel bad leaving my dogs in the kennel for another night when I'm home anyway and could easily come and get them. I'm going to be looking at other options for dog boarding as this place feels like leaving your babies with an irresponsible teenager who doesn't know or care much about dogs. If they installed video monitoring for owners, as another reviewer suggested, I would reconsider. read more

This was the first time ever I boarded my dog. I chose university pet resort based on a recommendation. I should have checked yelp first! I supplied them with all her food in dated containers and a gallon bag of kibble based on what she eats daily. I gave the staff there a letter from Maggie and I called in every day to check on her. They said she was eating. However they had to put her in another area cuz she was chewing the gate where she was. So that tells me she was very anxious. When I picked her up it was apparent she didn't eat much and she wouldn't even look at me. The staff person brought out her stuff and I asked if that was all of it and she said yes. When I got home I realized they forgot her bed, her bowl tray which is very sentimental, her food bowls, her water bowl And her choke color. I immediately called and spoke with Vic and she understood my frustration and said that should never have happened! She advised that I should talk to Michelle (her supervisor) or Jason (the owner) on Monday. Mind you the facility is in Merced and I live in Tracy which is about 1.5 hours driving time. When I spoke with Michelle she was curt and advised that I had yelled at her staff and they would not be reimbursing me any costs. She stated that I should have checked and my response was I will accept half the responsibility but her facility should accept their part as well. I advised they could have her bed but could they possibly just mail the items. She said they didn't know to do that but that she would talk with her owner She was very busy and said she would call me back. On Tuesday I called and she advised that they would mail her things. I told her no need cuz I had a friend working a job in Merced and he would pick it up! As for the care of my dog it appears she lost weight. Her blankets I sent didn't seem used cause they still smelled clean from my washing them before dropping her off. Maggie was all turned around. It took her 2-1/2 days to realize we were home. She was anxious, morose and not herself! I wished I had checked yelp first because based on that I would not have taken her there. The result of this fiasco is that I will never board my dog again and I certainly would not recommend this facility. Live and learn they say and I have done just that. My dog is my child and I will never have her stressed again. read more

Staff seems friendly, the place seems pretty nice. I have left my pets there several times and everything went fine. The dogs are allowed to play outside as they have a small kennel run, give them toys, a bathing area, etc.. However, they are linked to the Animal Medical Center next door. I will not be going back, as the last time they had left me with unnecessary charges. Our dog ended up getting a tad ill and because they couldn't reach us, they took him over to the AMC and did a full exam which was unbelievably costly. They did blood testing as well. It was stress. Over $600 to find out that he had an upset stomach because of stress. Their fill out form to leave your pets there was not done well. It left out information that would of been useful to know. So make sure if you leave your pets there that when you fill out that form to let them know if you're willing to let them take your pet to the AMC, how much of a limit they have (believe me they will push it right under) and if they can't reach you whether they have the power to take them over there without authorization. AMC is not a trustworthy vet. I would not trust UPR either after the last visit and the treatment they gave me because of their screwed up form. I left my dog there healthy as a horse and he came home with an upset stomach for 2 days; he did not look nearly as healthy as when I left him and he wasn't there that terribly long enough. read more

I gave this place the benefit of the doubt before, blaming my pet's neurosis and the holiday for the somewhat quirky care provided. They seemed to care about his well-being and that was enough. I was more just relieved he was OK after all the excitement. My opinion has since changed after various other experiences have revealed the facility here to be unsanitary, and the staff less than forthcoming when things go wrong. Pet owners aren't informed of illnesses, dogs come home sick without explanation, and when asked the truth is elusive from the staff. When I entrust my dog to someone, I expect nothing short of absolute honesty, cleanliness, and care for him. Anything less is unacceptable. I won't be returning to this facility. read more

I came here to see if this would be a good fit for my aussie shepherd pup to go to daycare while I was in town briefly. I usually live in San Francisco where I am used to open air exercise facilities for dogs to run, swim and just bask in the grass. My dog is only 6 months old, so he does have tons of energy. I tried my best to be open minded since this is not San Francisco, but Merced. All the dogs there was boarded individually in a small 4 by 6 cement wall, with a wire fence. ALL of them were barking so loud that my puppy would not even walk inside to greet any of the dogs. He was so scared and I just could not leave him here. I'd rather leave him in our backyard with a kiddie pool! I think this facility is great for cats (we had taken ours here previously) with no issues. But if you have a energetic dog...forget about it. read more

Havent had any problems yet. Took my yorkie here twice when the family & i went on extended vacations. Reasonable prices & they can make accommodations with a fee. The only thing i would change is having video monitoring so owners can check on animals while away & extend the hours of operation. read more

We have been taking our dogs here for "day care" for as long as they have been open. The staff are great and very "in" to animals that they are caring for. Tater always comes home from day care tired and happy. They make sure that group of dogs that your dog goes into is compatible and they play with your dog alot!!! I love how they have holiday parties and special treats for the dogs. It reminds me very much of when my kids were in day care. There are dogs that mine get along with and some that they aren't crazy about and if Tater misbehaves, he gets a time out!! We have also used their boarding services too. For my dogs, it was like going to camp. Not too sure my cats enjoyed it but they tend to be a bit cranky anyway. But I know that they were all well taken care off. read more

We have boarded our dog here twice and have been very pleased with the care she received. Definitely would recommend!

this place is amazing - reasonably priced and they take impeccable care of your animals. i only utilize the cat boarding portion of it, but from what i hear from my dog-owning friends, the doggy daycare program is just as fabulous. the thing i like most about this place is that while my cats are boarded up in cages while i'm away, those cages get natural sunlight and come equipped with toys. additionally, they are one of the few places in town that will actually let your cat out of the cage every day to ensure that your pets are getting exercise and not just sitting in a box, losing their minds. read more

We take our year old puppy for playcare twice a week. He is always very excited to go. In fact, it seems as if he has learned the schedule and will sit and stare at his leash until we take him. The staff is very friendly and very accommodating. The facilities are simple and I wish there was a larger outdoor play space but our dog enjoys it which is what is important. Overall the price is very reasonable. read more

The staff have always been really helpful and nice. This place is NOT super expensive. I like the cute rooms they have for small dogs! The employees take good care of my beloved dogs. I know my dogs are safe here. I have NEVER had a problem, my dogs like it here too, if their happy, I'm happy. This is an awesome place. read more

Never, ever again. First off the premium rooms for dogs are nothing more than a concrete cell with different wallpapers. The door to each cell isn't see through. So the dogs inside are literally in solitary confinement. They can see people walk by through the top of the door. Thats all. To make matters worse all the dogs are under one big warehouse like place. So its chaotic barking, forever. The cat rooms are much better. All the cats have nice accommodations and their own room. Now that we want to pick up our dog, we learn that they are closed on Sundays!!!! Wtf!?!?! What kennel closes a whole day???? No access to your dog for any reason. Closed. Period. Never, ever again. Banfield is a thousand times better. read more

I take my puppy Paris here at least once a week. The staff is very loving and the facility is spotless. Paris comes home very happy and loves the other little dogs there. She's participated is two photo sessions, one for Halloween and the other...a picture with Santa! I'm so happy Paris has a place to play with her little friends while I get my errands done. I feel she is well cared for and has fun at the same time! read more

My dog stayed in this kennel for three days. Another dog reached under the cage and tore her bed and blanket to shreds. I thought it would be fair if University Pet Resort reimbursed me for the bed, sheet, and childhood blanket because if they had a proper dog cage then this would not have happened. I was not reimbursed for anything. read more

I used to love this place. Then, they implemented a new vaccination policy and did not mention to let their regular customers know. I've been going there for 5 years and always have my dogs vaccinations up to date. Now they have a flu vaccine they want them to have. Fine, I'll get that, but not when I'm on the way out of town with no notice. Fuck them! read more

I left my little ten month old Min Pin here yesterday and when I arrived I didnt have his rabies or dhpp certificate with me but they were super nice about it and let me take my time faxing it over. So when it came time to leave my pup I felt good about this place, seeing as the staff were all super friendly and accommodating. When I came to pick Caleb up the next morning they remembered him without me even having to tell them and had him all ready to go. He looked well taken care of and happy. I definitely like this place and I would recommend it for sure. read more

University Pet Resort is a great place for our dog and cats. Not only is the facility always clean and smells good, but the staff are always there to greet us with smiles. The dogs get to go out and play with each other under supervision for daycare, which is adorable, and I saw that even the cats get one on one attention. The offer grooming from a professional grromer while also offering baths and toe nail trims. I know university Pet Resort has my pets best interest at heart and for that I thank them. read more

The staff is great and are affectionate to the dogs, which is important to my girl, Cheyanne, a spoiled husky. They did an eval to ensure our dog would play nice, which I liked. Prices are good. My only complaint is I wish they were open just a little later in the evening. We go to Sacramento offer to the VA, and getting back by 5:30 is almost impossible. Otherwise, so far, no complaints. read more

IlThis place is horrible they leave the animals alone for 12 hours without any food or water or access to the yard to use the restroom. My dog was so stressed that she tried to eat and paw at her cage and the dry wall to the point that she was bleeding and they had to take her to the vet. The resort never called us to let us know what was going on the vet called us. read more

I love this place! Friendly staff...great facility. I have used it for "day care", boarding and grooming. I feel very good to be able to leave my sweet little Cairn, Cassie, in such good and caring hands. Never a worry for me when I have an extended day out of town...if I don't make back in time to pick her up after day care...then she is boarded. Can't say enough good things! I think the price is right...and as long as it stays that way...I will be back and back and back. Barbara Kennedy read more

Our family has had to stop using University Pet Resort as our trusted kennel spot. We've used their facilities with our dog and he always came home happy as he was when checked in. We even spread the word about how great UPR was and have two of our friends using them now as well. Despite our great history with UPR we can no longer do business with them because of the fact that they will not accept self-administered parvo, bordatella, and distemper vaccines. We have been administering our dog's vaccines for about a year now to help keep down on recurring costs in our family budget. The vaccines can be purchased from ranch supply stores that are in our town and it keeps having to pay the ~(40-70) dollar fee just to see a vet. The only "regular" pet vaccine that we as conservative consumers cannot purchase is the rabies vaccine -- for good reason. When asked why they cannot accept self administered vaccines UPR said that it was for the safety of the animals in their care. When I stated that we had done just as our vet had advised us and affixed the vaccine vial's label and proof of purchase to the sales receipt and noted the date of administration UPR stated that they cannot accept those as evidence of administration and then referred me to the veterinarian's office right next door (owned by the same owner) and said that if I were to get my dog's vaccines done with them... or any other vet... my pet's shots would be trusted. I sent off a letter today to the owner of UPR and will let you know how it is responded to. read more

Sadly, I was disappointed with our boarding experience. I was not given honest information when I called to inquire -- the promises they made and what was actually delivered differed considerably. When we picked our dog up after a boarding, he was anxious and behaving very wildly, it took three days to get him back to normal and much of his training needed to be re-established. Most importantly, we sent the exact amount of food he would require during his stay, according to our instructions. When we picked him up a week later, only half of his food had been consumed. Three weeks later, when we traveled again, we boarded him at Merced Veterinary Clinic instead -- when we picked him up, he was happy, training still intact, and all his food had been appropriately consumed. Also, he was walked 2-3 times a day -- Univ. promised walks but only put him in a yard with a few other dogs every day in place of an actual walk. So no, we were very disappointed with University, and they're also the most expensive boarding and grooming place in town. We wouldn't recommend their boarding services. read more