Exceptional care that combines comfort, play, and individualized attention for your pet's happiness and well-being.
The story of Best Friends Boarding Kennel is a legacy built on love, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to animals. It begins with Thompson, a man whose name became synonymous with excellence in the world of bird dog training. Recognized internationally for his groundbreaking methods, Thompson’s life’s work was about more than training dogs—it was about connection. He believed in the bond between humans and animals, teaching patience, discipline, and the kind of care that left a mark on everyone who met him. His passion set the foundation for a family legacy that continues to thrive.
Thompson’s wife, Dawn, shared his profound love for animals. To Dawn, love had no boundaries, and her devotion to dogs was limitless. In 1995, she transformed their shared passion into a reality by opening the first Best Friends Boarding Kennel in Texas. Dawn’s vision was to create a space where pets weren’t just cared for—they were cherished. Her warmth and dedication turned the kennel into a sanctuary, a place where every animal felt like family. It is Dawn's belief that dogs are God's greatest creation because they demonstrate the unconditional love the Lord has for us. Dawn would tell you it is her calling to be a care-taker of God's creation..
As the business grew, so did the family’s commitment to excellence. Kimberly, Thompson's daughter, inherited her father's’ passion and brought her own unique touch to the business. With an innate ability to create comfort and care that couldn’t be replicated, Kimberly expanded the family’s vision. In 2009, her and Dawn opened Best Friends Boarding Too in Cedar Creek, Texas. This second location was a testament to the family’s dedication to innovation while staying true to their roots. Kimberly’s ability to blend modern amenities with the love and warmth of the original kennel ensured that the legacy continued to flourish.
Now, the next generation of this remarkable family is stepping forward. Matthew, Thompson’s grandson and Kimberly’s son, has taken the reins to lead the family business into an exciting new chapter. With a background in hospitality management and a family that consists only of pets, Matthew brings a visionary approach to pet care. His dream is to reimagine the industry, blending Texas hospitality with Manhattan’s fast-paced lifestyle. In 2025, Matthew will open Best Friends Boarding & Day Club in the heart of New York City. This new facility is not just a boarding kennel; it’s a revolution in pet care. With offerings like in-room dining, cabanas, curated social activities, and exclusive memberships, Matthew is setting a new standard for personalized pet hospitality.
For the Thompson family, Best Friends Boarding & Day Club is more than a business—it’s a legacy. It’s about carrying forward the values Thompson instilled: connection, discipline, and love. It’s about honoring Dawn’s belief that every animal deserves to be cherished. And it’s about Kimberly’s gift for creating comfort and care that feels like home. Together, their stories weave a tapestry of dedication and innovation that continues to inspire.
The mission of Best Friends Boarding Kennel remains the same as it was in 1995: to create sanctuaries where pets are loved, owners feel at ease, and every tail wags with joy. As they open their doors in Manhattan, the family invites you to be part of their journey. Because at Best Friends, love truly has no end.