Leaving your beloved cat or dog in someone else’s care—especially a pet with medical or emotional needs—can feel overwhelming. At Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel in Topeka, Kansas, we understand that. That’s why we’re answering the most common questions from pet parents seeking special-needs pet boarding. Whether your pet is anxious, senior, recovering from surgery, or living with chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes, we’re here to provide compassionate, expert care. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from families like yours.
1. What Makes TLC Different from Other Pet Boarding Facilities?
We’re not a kennel—we’re a boutique, fear-free boarding facility dedicated to pets with
special needs. TLC offers:
- No crates or cages—only comfortable, glass-front suites
- One-on-one, personalized care in a low-stress environment
- Soothing music, calming lighting, and gentle handling techniques
- Care designed by experts with a background in animal wellness and enrichment
We are the only facility in Shawnee County exclusively focused on special-needs pet care, including senior dogs and cats, anxious pets, and those with medical conditions.
2. What Types of Pets Do You Accept?
TLC welcomes pets who need extra support, including:
- Senior pets who require more attention and monitoring
- Anxious, undersocialized, or shy pets who struggle in traditional group settings
- Pets with mobility issues, recent surgeries, or chronic diseases like kidney disease, arthritis, or diabetes
We also accept unaltered (not spayed/neutered) dogs and cats for overnight stays and
daycare. Please note there is a small additional fee for non-altered pets.
3. What Vaccinations Are Required?
To protect all guests, we require the following vaccinations from a licensed veterinarian:
- Dogs: Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella
- Cats: Rabies and FVRCP
Please send your pet’s vaccine records ahead of their stay to ensure a smooth check-in.
4. Can I Tour TLC Before Booking?
Absolutely! We encourage you to schedule a private tour during business hours. You’ll meet our team, see our suites, and get a feel for our peaceful, homelike environment.
If you bring your pet for the tour, please ensure they are current on vaccinations.
5. What Happens If My Pet Needs Veterinary Care During Their Stay?
We’ve got you covered. If a health concern arises:
- We contact you or your emergency contact immediately
- We consult your regular veterinarian or visit an emergency clinic
- Our trained staff closely monitors all pets and can administer medications as prescribed
Your pet’s health and safety are always our top priority.
6. What’s Your Pick-Up Policy for Overnight Stays?
Standard pick-up time is 10:00 AM on the scheduled departure day.
If your pet is picked up after 10:00 AM, a $47 daycare fee will apply to cover staffing and
continued care. The final pick-up window closes at 6:00 PM.
7. What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
We understand plans change. Here’s how we handle cancellations:
- Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will forfeit their deposit
- Deposits are refundable for emergencies or illness
- In other cases, we apply the deposit as a store credit toward future services
A deposit may be required for overnight boarding or enrichment daycare sessions.
8. Do You Offer Bathing or Grooming Services?
Yes! We offer basic bathing services during or after your pet’s stay. While we’re not a full-service grooming salon, a bath before heading home helps your dog or cat feel fresh and clean.
9. What Other Services Do You Offer at TLC?
We offer more than just boarding—we offer specialized enrichment designed for pets who need gentle engagement and emotional support.
Our services include:
- TLC Pet Enrichment Academy with brain games, sniff safaris, and manners-based activities
- Daily Treat Time & Story Time to reduce anxiety and build connection
- Optional Photo Report Cards for $3 so you can see how your pet is doing
- Extra Cuddles and Dog Massage for comfort and calm
Our team tailors each activity to your pet’s personality, mobility, and energy level.
Why Pet Parents Choose TLC in Topeka
At TLC Pet Nursing Hotel, we specialize in the kind of care most kennels can’t provide. We care for cats and dogs with arthritis, anxiety, chronic illness, or advanced age—and we do it with tenderness, medical know how, and a fear-free philosophy.
Whether your pet needs overnight boarding, enrichment daycare, or a place to recover post-surgery, we’re here with the experience and heart they deserve.
Why Pet Parents Choose TLC in Topeka
We’d love to meet you and your furry family member. Call us today to learn more about Topeka’s only special-needs pet hotel.