The Dog Stop - Richmond VA

Brooke Gurnari

2024-02

We love the Dog Stop! We were very nervous to get grooming services done after having an awful experience at a different groomer. They listened to our requests and delivered! We are so pleased with how they groomed our yorkie. We also love to use them for overnight boarding if we have to go away for a weekend. It is hard for us to trust others with our dog but being able to check in on cameras and the caring staff make it easier. They always do a great job.

kamryn word

2024-01

At first we thought we found a dream daycare until it turned out to be a nightmare.We took our dog to the dog stop as soon as they opened, one of their very first customers. We ended up getting a second dog and she was adopted from a shelter. She was sky but super friendly and loving.Our first situation was with our dog Brody, he was getting his nails trimmed and snipped the owner. This was over a year ago and is still talked about.Our second situation was when I was looking on the cameras for Bailey and Brody and I could not find them anywhere. I called and asked where they were and they told me they put them in a crate due to there being so many dogs. I explained we do not crate our dogs and this is unacceptable I don’t send my dogs to the daycare to get crated up.This happened over 4 times after I said call me if you need me to pick up my dogs. Please do not crate them. It even got so bad my dogs would fight to stay in the car.I have no idea what they did at that daycare but, my dogs love other animal interaction and they seemed absolutely terrified to go to that place. They went downhill fully and it’s our jobs as dog owners to trust our dogs.They will never get a recommendation from me and I hope everyone who goes to this place really knows what they are doing to there animals. Have a blessed Christmas season.

Shilpa Gangisetty

2023-12

I have mixed feelings on this boarding facility. Let’s start with the positive — the facility is very clean and you can tell the staff is friendly and do genuinely care about dogs. They were attentive to the fact my Lab Mix pup was stressed, and moved her to the small dog section. I can see how they outshine the other facilities in the area in that regard.On the other hand, I have to say I was quite shocked about how long the dogs are left alone during weekends. Your dog will be in the kennel from 4pm and the next employee doesn’t return until 10am the next day. I personally think that’s a ridiculous amount of time and don’t find that acceptable. 18 hours! Of course my dog smelled like urine when I got her, and she definitely seemed stressed when I got her. I think they have a caring staff but she won’t be boarded overnight again. We would consider coming back for daycare though.

Jessica Proffitt

2024-03

I have been taking my dog to The Dog Stop for a while now. They recently added a canine influenza vaccine requirement due to breakouts in the area. I did not see the email where this update was provided and I unfortunately was not able to drop by dog off for boarding because of it and had to pay a cancellation fee. After trying to figure out my backup plan and seeing the extra expense I'd incur I was quite frustrated. I called to speak to the store team members explaining my frustration, in particular the cancellation fee given my boarding was confirmed. This might sound negative to this point, but the 5 stars is correct! They walked me through how their system and notifications work, what notifications I had selected to receive and updated for me based on what I told them would be helpful for me moving forward. They were graceful and apologized for the frustration and showed genuine understanding while standing on their policy. Too many places deprioritize customer service these days and I am happy to have received such understanding and great communication.Not to mention, they take great care of my dog and he's excited when he sees where we are when I drop him off.

Mike Legette

2024-04

I have mixed feeling about this place as things were good until they weren’t. i’ve boarded my dog here a couple times before and hadn’t really had any issues outside of some minor scratches on my dog which I just I assumed was from some rough playing. but this time was the first time I had an issue.I got a call early in the morning saying my dog was attacked and that he had about a half an inch long rip in his ear and apparently it was bleeding to the point that they had to take him to an emergency vet. granted these things happen from time to time but I do feel like there could’ve been some common curtesy given by the asst manager and owner.Every time they’d mention how they were concerned about my dogs well-being they would immediately follow it up by reminding me of the waiver I signed and how they had no liability for any vet bills/damages, but thankfully the owner of the dog who attacked mine was generous enough to cover the vet fees for my dog. I understand it’s in their waiver that they aren’t responsible for things of this nature, but I do think showing some common curtesy would go a long way. whether it be putting some money towards my dogs vet bill or even taking a few bucks off the cost of boarding I think any small gesture like that would’ve went a long way with me having a more positive outlook on how the situation was handled.I kind of look at it like you go to restaurant and u don’t have a enjoyable experience, they’re not obligated to give you a refund or anything but most of the time they try to accommodate you by offering you something else or knocking some money off the bill.I just think they could’ve made some effort to try remedy the situation. all they had to offer me was apologies and multiple reminders of waiver that I signed and how any damages/fees need to be handled with the other pets owner. and that’s not to mention the fact I had to cancel a vacation I had planned to come pick up my dog, so there was a couple hundred dollars that i’m on the hook for , due to the hotel I had to cancel.So yea if your boarding here just be aware of what’s in the waiver you signed and if you happen to run into a situation similar to mine, your going to be on the hook for everything. I will say the employees that i’ve encountered on my multiple visits there were pleasant and seem to really love and care for the dogs but unfortunately the way upper management handled this situation left a sour taste in my mouth. so needless to say I won’t be bring my dog back here anymore.

srikanth banka

2023-12

"On 11/10, I dropped by very large, high-energy golden retriever off at the boarding school with a harness that I use to safely keep control of my dog. The boarding school removed the harness as per their policy, but I did ask them to put the harness back on for pick-up at 6:30. When I went to pick my dog up, the harness was not placed back on him. Being high-energy, not finished with his training, and less than a year old, my dog was jumping up excitedly on other people, and without his harness I had to physically restrain him by basically hugging the dog and gently pushing him toward the ground so I could get his harness back on without him potentially hurting someone else by jumping up. I eventually got his harness back on and left the boarding school. Later, an officer arrived at my home to check on the welfare of my dog, because the staff at the boarding school called with concerns that I was abusing my dog. I am a first-time dog owner and am doing everything right by putting my dog through training and making sure he's well cared for when I am unavailable to do it myself. I have never abused my dog. I was highly upset that instead of speaking with me privately, an officer was sent to my home. The officer ultimately cleared me and said there were no signs of neglect or abuse to my dog, but I feel like my morality and judgement were called into question unfairly by the staff at this boarding school and I am very upset that they would immediately jump to such an extreme conclusion. It is for this reason and the staff's extreme reaction to an innocent attempt to calm my enthusiastic puppy that I will no longer be taking my dog to this boarding school. I hope in the future the staff takes the time to gather evidence of abusive behavior or signs of abuse before making such a severe accusations and reporting someone to the police."

Melanie Scott

2023-05

Took my dog Tiramisu here for a temperament test for boarding in August and it was exceptional. Had a less than favorable experience at another doggy daycare locally and was immediately put at ease with the cameras at this facility. Staff was pleasant and helpful.

Charlie Doedens

2022-05

Everyone is always so kind and helpful. My day I got to tour the facility and loved what I saw. I could even watch my little Gavin run and play with his pup friends throughout the day. I love that it doubles as a boarding facility if needed and they even have grooming there too. I wish the outdoor camera’s were working but that may just be during the winter. Now thats it is beginning to warm up, i assume they will get turned on again.

christina smith

2022-05

This place is AMAZING!!!! I would NEVER take my dog anywhere else. Scrappy loves it here from the play, workouts, food, to the awesome kennel space. Of course we cant forget the wonderful exit baths and grooming services!

Cynthia Creasy

2023-05

I love how the staff knows my dog by name when we walk in and how they attend to his specific needs (too much energy and a jumper). They are very patient and seem to really understand my dog's behavior and consequently come up with plan to help him with his desire to play 24/7.

Debbie Carter

2023-09

I am very particular about where my dog stays when I am away. The Dog Stop and their staff are very friendly and cares for my dog Bella. I pay attention to how she acts when I pick her up. She is always glad to see us but she loves the people at the Dog Stop. She has stayed at other doggie daycares but she wasn't happy. I love the Dog Stop and their staff.

leigh harris

2023-09

The best!!!! Very well run and clean. My dog is dragging me to get in there in the morning. Everyone is so caring.

N Rankins

2023-05

We 've had a great experience with taking our dog here for both day care and boarding. She's pretty energetic and they have no problems managing her energy. She always comes home happy and exhausted after lots of play. Drop off and pick up are a breeze as well as adding things in like grooming. The cameras are nice to be able to peek in on her during the day if we'd like. Highly recommend!

Douglas Weary

2023-05

I had the pleasure of visiting the Dog Stop here in Richmond this week and was blown away by the care and and security given to the babies who visited either for the day, several days or for grooming. With few exceptions each dog was so excited to visit. Each one who stayed had play time and wonderful care from the staff. The store is cleaned throughout the day and the rates are quite fair. I recommend The Dog Stop to all puppy parents.

D. Alan Ray

2023-05

We used the Dog Stop for boarding and had a great experience. Our dog, who can be a little nervous around new friends, took right to the staff. There was great communication and reminders about our upcoming reservation and flexibility about pickup times. We will definitely be boarding with Dog Stop again.

Cearra Arnold

2023-05

This place is amazing. My dog was here for a week & of course i was nervous, but with the email updates, the different room services, and the dog camera, I felt so safe & was happy to see him playing with the other dogs. I would drive the 2+ hours to bring him here again & I can’t wait. Thank you Dog Stop for an amazing experience!

Kayla Miller

2022-05

From start to finish, my experience with The Dog Stop was incredible. They greeted us (by name) immediately upon arrival although we had never been there before. It was my puppy's first time being groomed and she was not nervous at all. She happily went back with the staff, wagging her tail and skipping along and didn't even glance back at me. She came out looking (and smelling) so much better. We really enjoyed our experience and will definitely be back again.

Michael Cangelosi

2023-12

Always friendly and they love your dog like it’s theirs! Maverick and Elle love their stays.

Stephanie Smith

2023-09

We love taking our 1.5 year old beagle to doggie daycare. She actually knows the building as we drive up and she gets super excited as soon as shes in the door! The facility is super clean and maintained. The dog cameras are nice for checking in on your dog. We plan on coming back as often as possible. We can't brag on this place enough.

maggie delane

2023-05

Excellent care for your fur baby! Shi is home and very much a part of the pack. I can enjoy myself and not worry when he is at the Dog stop and momma out of town. And he is a big boy American Bully!!! No problems they handle him well. Why because they got to know him personally! I'm grateful and relieved not to mention he sleeps well afterward his visits.

birtie95

2023-05

They are super friendly and accommodate requests as best they can. They always have my doggy’s best interest in mind and provide excellent customer service.

Rosemary Beasley

2023-05

Wow, my baby Sissy, came out looking beautiful. Thanks to her personal groomer Lang. Sissy's normal groomer has been sick, so I was desperately calling around to find someone that could take her on short notice and Dog Stop came through for us. I brought her home and her daddy didn't recognize her and thought she was beautiful. Thanks again Lang and the front desk receptionist was excellent also. Happy Holidays to all at Dog Stop

Richard Hutchins

2023-05

When we brought Dahlia here shortly after she was adopted and the staff here have helped her grow into a more confident dog. She is not as skittish and anxious due to people and other dogs like she was before. She also gets so excited whenever she comes. The staff is beyond friendly and knowledgeable. They are also very communicative. Thank you for all that you do.

Christa Carter

2022-05

Our Australian Shepherd LOVES it here! We're so glad we found this place, in such a convenient location. We regularly book daycare, boarding, and baths, and have never been disappointed. I feel that the pricing is totally fair, and the facilities are good quality. The staff all seem to genuinely know and care about each dog - we get such a kick out of their stories about Yoshi and the friends he's been making there. :)My favorite part - they have live webcams that you can view on an app during business hours. SUCH an appreciated feature for helicopter puppy parents!!!

Richard Comish

2023-05

They genuinely seemed to care about the dogs at intake. He came out looking happy and playful when we collected him later in the day. They do a temperament test on the first day which was very much appreciated and they keep the smaller and larger dogs separated.Overall a very pleasant experience and a very useful service.

Patricia Kincheloe

2023-05

A neighborhood friend told me about the Dog Stop when I recently became a canine Mom again. I have already used their grooming services on 3 occasions and have been very pleased with the Staff's friendliness, their genuine affection for their canine customers, and their expertise in providing services. Their Doggie Day Care program will be my next stop!

Megan Rellick

2023-05

I’ve used The Dog Stop to board my two dogs a couple times. They’re always super friendly and make sure your dog is taken care of. I like that have have different sections so they can separate any dogs as needed. It’s also fun to tune into the live cams & watch the pups play!

Nick Matullo

2023-05

We just picked up our border collie mix for the first time and he is absolutely butchered. There are multiple locations where hair was not trimmed, his nails were not even clipped and the groomer didn’t even trim his tail. Moreover, we requested that the shape of his coat is maintained and that he is not cut too short in order to protect his undercoat. However, his top coat is completely shaved with multiple marks where the clippers shaved him too short. Additionally, this is the most expensive grooming job I have ever paid for with a total over $100. Local shops such as Dogma grooming in Carytown have done a job that far surpasses the one we received today for a much better price ($75). We will NEVER bring our dog back to be groomed.

Wendy Jones

2023-05

I loved EVERYTHING about my first experience with The Dog Stop from beginning to end. We were boarding our senior dog for an out-of-town long weekend trip. Our regular boarder accidently doubled booked us and cancelled the stay a few short days in advance of us going out of town. As you can imagine, I was more than a little panicky. In steps our hero to the rescue--The Dog Stop! From my very first contact they assured me NO PROBLEM, they could definitely accommodate us. WHEW!! The day of drop off only increased my peace of mind--as soon as I said my dog's name they were so excited to see him, they knew exactly who we were because we were expected!! Like a host at a gathering, the party was incomplete without us. Their streamlined online process makes it so easy to know all of your pets needs long before you arrive, which also really speeds up the check-in process. Upon our return they never skipped a beat with their genuine enthusiasm and could actually tell me about my dog's experience without having to look at notes on a chart. It felt to me like he was on a little vaca of his own;) He was also upgraded to a kennel that had a walk in entry--at no extra charge--because his arthritis sometimes makes him cranky when being lifted. But don't worry--they don't get left in their quarters for long--boarding includes doggie daycare and also camera access for those who like to peek in on their poochies while away. Cannot say enough great things about our experience. I had to give them a 10 because it was the highest rating available. If it were up to me I'd say it's more like 100 A+!!!

Josh Stone

2023-05

Our mini Goldendoodle hates being boarded but we really liked the Dog Stop. They had less dogs in each room than most I’ve seen plus Indy’s room was private with space for her bed and room to move around. Absolutely plan to use again.