Pet Services in Wade Hampton

Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Cherokee Hill Farm’s 100 acres have hosted the equestrian pursuits of owners Mike and Linda Schatzberg for more than 25 years. When the horses aren't resting in one of the stable's 22 stalls, they graze on green grass and croquet mallets in one of the grounds' pastures or tote riders into the 380-acre landscape of the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center. Horse owners board their steeds at the farm, where staff members lovingly care for and train them. The Schatzbergs' passion for shar-peis led them to create an onsite kennel where pups can play while their owners ride. Beginning riders benefit from the blue ribbon expertise of instructor Mike, who specializes in hunt-seat riding.:m]]

Treks through Five Oaks Riding Stables' 70-acre nature park afford riders views of the Great Smoky Mountains and its indigenous mountain wildlife, including wild turkey and white-tailed deer. On 5-mile rides, tourists get glimpses of Mount LeConte, a mountain lake, and the remnants of an old moonshiner's still, which dates back to the days when Americans were only allowed to drink alcohol out of bathtubs.

Activities? Check. Flat-panel TVs with satellite? Check. On-site spa? Check. Woodlands Pet Resort blurs the lines between hotels for humans and hotels for pets with a slew of comforting amenities, including seven bathroom breaks or walks each day for dogs and a box full of feline toys for cats. As for pet parents, en suite webcams let them catch glimpses of their pooch or kitty while they’re away.

The natural method of horsemanship steers riding and training lessons at Double R Stables, a 10-acre sanctuary nestled in the heart of the Asheville Mountains. The farm's founders, Skip and Brigitte Ruckle, uphold equine excellence by encouraging riders to develop true communication with their horses before embarking on the trail toward competition. They also board their horses in 16 spacious stalls designed to keep the animals calm, friendly, and less likely to run away to pursue a fruitless career in tap dancing.

During lessons, trainees can absorb the expertise of instructors Ron Stanley and Heather Fahy, both of whom possess a wealth of experience in both Western and English techniques. A true master of mares, Ron has spent 20 years conditioning racehorses, and often recalls his experiences as he guides riders through both indoor and outdoor practice areas.

Helmed by Dr. Jeff Smith, the staff at Vetcetera Animal Hospital combines state-of-the-art techniques with holistic services to care for pets in accordance to their owners' medical philosophy. On the holistic side of the hospital, technicians administer homeopathic alternative treatments and minimal vaccine doses in addition to providing post-operation recovery in the arms of a person and not a cage. More conventional treatments include surgery, in-house lab testing, and dog and cat couples therapy.

Since 1985, Arbor Creek Kennels & Pet Lodge has treated pooches and cats to regular playtime and spacious, comfortable quarters with heated floors. Friendly staff take animals on daily walks amid the compound's 30 acres of idyllic countryside, and someone is always on the premises, 24 hours a day, to ensure that pets play nicely and sleep soundly. During their stay, animals can undergo grooming and bathing services to remove tangles and stenches from fur or impress talent agents casting for Homeward Bound: With a Vengeance. The kennel maintains a close relationship with Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, a local no-kill shelter.