Planning Commission recommends small-capacity dog-boarding facility to Board, limits boarding to seven dogs (owners' pets excluded)

The Prince George Planning Commission on April 23 voted to recommend approval of SC26-0002, a request to operate a small-capacity dog-boarding facility in an accessory cottage, forwarding the recommendation to the Board of Supervisors with an amendment that the seven-dog limit excludes the owner's personal pets.

Planning staff described the application as a low-volume, appointment-only overnight boarding operation with six interior dog suites, sanitation stations, climate control and a fenced outdoor area. Staff noted compatibility with the comprehensive plan and surrounding zoning, and recommended approval with conditions including a maximum of seven dogs on the premises at one time.

Applicant Cathy O’Donnell told commissioners she currently keeps three dogs at the property and that the cottage would function with interior suites rather than kennel runs; dogs would be supervised while outside and housed indoors overnight. "They will only be out there when I'm out there," O’Donnell said, adding that the operation would require waivers and proof of vaccinations for clients.

Commissioners sought clarification that the staff-recommended maximum would not count the applicant's personal dogs. A maker of the motion amended the condition to specify the cap is exclusive of owners’ personal pets; the amended motion to recommend approval passed on roll call and will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for final action.

The commission’s recommendation includes staff conditions on operations, screening, sanitation, and a maximum number of customer boarding dogs.

The Board of Supervisors will review SC26-0002 at a later public meeting and make the final determination.