New Pet Boarding Facility Opens in Ponchatoula Ahead of Summer Travel Season

PONCHATOULA, La. (May 15, 2026) – A new expanded pet boarding facility is now open in Ponchatoula, giving New Orleans-area pet owners more options for boarding, daycare and same-day baths ahead of the busy summer travel season.

Thrive Pet Healthcare partner Hickory Small Animal Hospital in Ponchatoula has opened a new boarding facility across the street from its veterinary hospital. The boarding center, located at 40009 Hickory Lane, was designed to help the hospital care for more pets, including larger dogs that need more space during their stay.

The new boarding facility offers:

Veterinary appointments and medical services will continue at Hickory Small Animal Hospital Ponchatoula’s existing hospital location at 40008 Hickory Lane.

“Our new boarding facility gives pets more space and gives families more options when they need a safe, comfortable place for their pet to stay,” said Kailyn Hebert, practice manager at Hickory Small Animal Hospital Ponchatoula. “We’re excited to offer expanded accommodations for larger dogs, along with daycare services and same-day baths, all supported by a team that truly gets to know each pet’s individual needs. We also welcome families to tour the facility, so they feel confident knowing their pets are cared for like one of our own.”

The new boarding facility is open Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., and Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-noon.

To book boarding, daycare or a veterinary appointment, call 225-294-3993.

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for pet boarding, especially around holidays and family vacations. Hickory Small Animal Hospital Ponchatoula encourages pet owners to book boarding reservations early and confirm their pets are ready before travel plans begin.

Pet owners should make sure their pet’s vaccines are current before boarding. Requirements may vary by pet and service, but dogs commonly need vaccines such as rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella, which help protect against contagious respiratory illnesses often associated with boarding, daycare and grooming settings.

"Some vaccines need time to take effect, so it’s best to have those vaccines updated at least two weeks prior to traveling,” said Dr. Claire Scott, medical director and veterinarian at Hickory Small Animal Hospital Ponchatoula. “As you make plans to travel, don't forget to call your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and current on heartworm, flea, and tick prevention. Keeping these up to date helps protect your pet while they’re boarding, traveling, or enjoying outdoor activities."

Pet owners should also update microchip contact information, refill any needed medications and share written feeding or care instructions before a boarding stay.

For families preparing for summer boarding, a pet wellness membership may help reduce the cost of routine veterinary visits pets may need before travel, including wellness exams and vaccine appointments.

Hickory Small Animal Hospital Ponchatoula offers Thrive Plus membership. Benefits include unlimited free pet exams, 10% off services such as diagnostics, vaccines and dental cleanings, and $5 basic nail trims. For pet owners with boarding, daycare or other summer travel needs, a Thrive Plus membership can make it easier to keep up with preventive care throughout the year.

Thrive Plus members can use their benefits at more than 180 primary care hospitals nationwide, including Louisiana partner hospitals in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Independence and Ponchatoula.

To locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare hospital, including primary, specialty and emergency veterinary services, visit https://www.thrivepetcare.com.