Business Details
45 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Pet Boarding & Training Center in Hattiesburg, MS
Okatoma Kennel has been a family-operated pet care provider since 1981, dedicated to delivering personalized attention and safe environments for animals. Our facilities include climate-controlled indoor/outdoor runs for dogs, multi-level Kitty Condos for cats, and specialized areas for small dogs. We prioritize individualized care, offering 24-hour supervision as we reside on-site. With over 40 years of experience, we cater to pets' physical and emotional needs through daily exercise, playtime, and special accommodations for dietary or medical requirements.Located off Highway 49 near Hattiesburg, we serve local pet owners and USM campus communities. Our commitment to quality care has made us a trusted choice for boarding and training services in Mississippi.
Services
Dog Boarding
Cat Boarding
Obedience Training
Private Lessons
Pet Therapy
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- Family-owned business providing personalized pet care since 1981
- 40+ years of combined experience in professional pet boarding and training
- 24-hour on-site supervision for immediate pet needs and emergencies
- Separate facilities for dogs and cats with specialized accommodations
- Special care for pets with medical conditions or dietary requirements
Associations and certifications
- Pet Care Services Association
- American Boarding Kennel Association
What people say
Happy campers
24-hour supervision
Special attention
Clean facilities
Experienced staff
Services
Dog Boarding
Our K-9 Camp offers climate-controlled indoor/outdoor runs with grass exercise yards. Dogs receive four daily exercise sessions, individual attention, and special accommodations for small breeds. Vaccinations are required, and 24-hour supervision ensures pet safety.
Cat Boarding
Kitty Condos provide multi-level suites in a separate facility with daily playtime. Cats enjoy climate-controlled environments, individual attention, and specialized care. All feline boarders must be spayed/neutered for safety and comfort.
Obedience Training
Six-week group classes teach basic and intermediate obedience using positive reinforcement. Limited to 8 participants, sessions include AKC Canine Good Citizen preparation. Proof of vaccinations required for all participating dogs.
Private Lessons
In-home sessions address specific needs like puppy introduction, behavioral modification, or preparing for new family additions. Personalized training plans developed by experienced instructors for dogs of all ages.
Pet Therapy
Active participation in local pet therapy programs for nursing homes and community events. Our staff combines animal care expertise with compassionate outreach to improve quality of life for residents.
People
Trish Lambert
Owner/Operator
Trish Lambert co-owns Okatoma Kennel with over 40 years of pet care experience. She personally supervises daily operations and training programs, ensuring high-quality care standards. Active in community pet therapy initiatives.
Rae Lambert
Owner/Operator
Rae Lambert manages facility operations and animal care at Okatoma Kennel. With decades of hands-on experience, he ensures safe environments for all boarded pets and maintains facility standards.
Questions
What vaccinations are required for boarding?
Dogs need current rabies, distemper, and kennel cough vaccines. Cats require rabies, distemper, FIP, and Feline Leukemia vaccinations. Proof must be provided before boarding.
Can pets stay together?
Yes, families or bonded pets may board together in appropriately sized accommodations. Owners should bring identification tags and vaccination records for all animals.
How are special dietary needs handled?
We feed Purina products but allow owners to bring special diet food. Medication administration available at no extra charge with veterinarian instructions.
Are there discounts for multiple pets?
Yes, we offer discounted rates for dogs sharing runs. Contact us for specific pricing details based on your pets' size and requirements.
What happens if my pet gets sick?
We contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance. All local vets work with us for emergency care. Boarders must have up-to-date vaccinations to minimize health risks.
Do you offer grooming services?
Bathing services available by appointment. Pricing based on pet size and coat type. Please schedule grooming when making boarding reservations for convenience.
Reviews (7)
Isabel Gonzalez Del Pino
Jan 28, 2022
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I am one of those crazy dog owners. I have heard horror stories about dogs coming home from boarding with wounds, kennel cough, anxiety. After reading the reviews, I decided to go visit Okatoma Kennel and I was not disappointed. My dog spent two weeks with them recently for Christmas and I was a nervous wreck, but Ms. Trish was available through messages at all times. We picked up Ayla and she just seemed happy to be there. They have been in the business for years, and you can tell. The fact that they are animal lovers and live on site gives me peace of mind. They are my go-to place for doggy holidays now.
Kaiser DragonTV
Jul 20, 2021
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Fattened up my cats had to stay for two weeks while buying a house the cats didn't wana leave plump and happy dunno what they fed them! LoL
Annette Rowe
Mar 10, 2021
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This is the only place I will use to board my dog. He loves going to "doggie camp". He loves Ms Tish and the rest of the staff. They always take great care of him.
Bettie Robinson
Feb 25, 2021
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The owners are pets lover and will take very good care of them. A very happy environment I highly recommend this place.
Joy Leise
Apr 30, 2020
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Our cats were very happy here & they made us feel comfortable and safe leaving them for our vacation time!
Ellis Anne Lambert
Jan 14, 2020
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The owners are so wonderful! She knew I was nervous about leaving my baby doggy! My Tootsie, is 9 months old and never stayed away from home. They went above and beyond, even texting me pictures and updates! I highly recommend this boarding facility!
Zak Man
Dec 10, 2018
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This is a great place for your pet. It has a large fenced in area where you dog can roam around in at his leisure. Best in the MS.