Business Details
About
Pet Boarding ServicePet Day CarePet GroomerDog TrainerKennelPet Services
For more than 30 years, Bittersweet Pet Resorts has provided a loving, safe, and enriching environment for dogs and cats in the South Bend, Indiana and lower Michigan areas. We provide veterinarian-recommended overnight dog boarding, dog daycare, dog grooming, and dog training. Between our dedicated staff, individualized care, and spacious facilities, we’re all about wags and purrs.
Details
- Wheelchair accessible entranceAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.4
303 reviews
5 stars
242
4 stars
17
3 stars3
2 stars
7
1 star
34
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Staff Care
Customers consistently praised the staff for their friendliness, attentiveness, and genuine love for the animals.
Grooming Services
Many reviews highlighted the excellent grooming services provided, with pets returning looking great and well cared for.
Communication
Several customers appreciated the regular updates and photos during their pets' stays, which helped ease their anxiety.
Pricing Concerns
Some customers expressed dissatisfaction with hidden fees and unclear pricing practices, leading to feelings of being misled.
Mixed Experiences
While many had positive experiences, a few customers reported issues with service quality and customer support.
- PLPearlie LoveDec 26, 20255.0To be perfectly honest, I took my first puppy to this place for boarding and it was terrible but I loved the way Angie (I call her Angel) groomed him, but scheduling was a disaster. They have been under new management for a few months and now everything is GREAT!!! I'd give them a 10/10 if I could. I haven't had any problems with scheduling and everyone goes above and beyond to accommodate me. I have a 9 month old Teacup Maltese (Teenie Tiny Love). Today was his first appointment. I got there only to find that he was missing a vaccination. Angel and the rest of the staff waited while I ran, got him the vaccine, brought him back and groomed him!!! I used to try to brush Teenie, but he would yelp and resist. I thought he was just frightened because I've only had him 2 months and he came from an abusive situation so I wouldn't brush him!! He had a lot of hair, but as soon as Angel felt him she said his hair was matted. I could have cried but to make things worse she said I shouldn't have clothes on him because that causes matting also. I thought to myself, "My Baby only weighs 3.7 lbs. He will freeze!!!" Angel explained "If you're not cold, he won't be cold." I have to build up to not clothing my baby, but I'll work on it lol!!! Anyway she had to practically shave him, but Angel is anointed by God when it comes to grooming, because she works miracles on our furbabies.!!!! The first picture and video are before his transformation. The others are after Angel did her thing 💕 💞 ♥️ 💜 💙 🧡 💕
- ARAmber RaybonDec 10, 20255.0My king charles spaniel puppy really enjoyed daycare. He was so calm when I picked him up and no signs of separation anxiety like when I have to leave him home alone. This was the perfect way to keep him occupied durring longer days at work. I love that he gets to make friends his size and someone is there to take care of him. I will be a returning customer!
- KLKimberley LichtyOct 23, 20255.0Bittersweet is our fur-babies home away from home and what a team they have to love on, train, groom, provide daily daycare at affordable prices and competitive packages. All your fur-babies needs in one amazing facility. They love your fur-baby as their own. Check them out today. You won't be disappointed.
- JEJudy EllenOct 22, 20255.0My dog Missy Mae enjoys being with all the people who love and take care of her, whether it is for boarding, or for day school. I always pick up a happy dog!!
- DODavid OstremOct 20, 20255.0We needed to board our male keeshond/shepherd mix for four days while attending an out-of-state wedding. He's a bit on the skittish side, and reacts to other dogs. The entire care teams was wonderful. They took time to understand his special needs, and gave us confidence that he would be well cared for while we were away, which he was. When travelling back home with plans to retrieve him, we hit a traffic snag that prevented us from arriving until after hours. A call to the staff gave us the assurance that it was not a problem for him to spend another night, which alleviated some of the stress of being stuck in traffic after a long weekend. I highly recommend Bittersweet Kalamazoo/Three Rivers for your pet care needs. Thank you Bittersweet - you rock!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bittersweet Pet Resorts
What vaccinations does my dog need to join daycare?
For the safety of all our guests, we require dogs be up to date on their vaccinations for rabies, DHLPP (distemper), and Bordetella.
Can I come in for a tour?
We’d love to show you our facility! Please visit during regular business hours Monday through Saturday and our staff will be happy to take you on a tour.
Do you require a trial evaluation?
Since every dog’s safety and comfort is so important to us, your dog’s first day of daycare starts with a good observation of their personality and play style so we can match them up with the best playmates. We ask they visit us for at least 4-6 hours on this first day.
What will my dog be doing at daycare?
Each pup enjoys play sessions throughout the day doing whatever they enjoy most! They have plenty of space to run around with friends, play with the staff, and rest in the sunshine. Between play sessions they relax and recharge with multiple potty breaks.
Do you require reservations for daycare?
We do ask you please give us a call to schedule your appointment. This is to ensure we have all the necessary information such as vaccination records, contact information, and medical information.
When can I drop off and pick up?
You can check in for daycare any time during our operating hours, but we suggest dropping off before 12 noon to ensure your pup gets as much playtime as possible. For daycare check-out, we ask you please pick up by 7pm.
Our daycare operating hours are:
Monday-Friday 7:30 am-7:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm
How do I make reservations?
To make a reservation at Bittersweet Pet Resorts, please call us at (269) 684-7361.
Can I add more activities to my dog’s daycare plan?
Yes, we’re happy to put together a custom package for your dog. Extra activities include additional walks, bathing or grooming, spa services, and training.
If my plans change, what is your cancellation policy?
Should you need to cancel or change your reservations, please let us know 48 hours prior to your arrival. Over holidays and Spring Break, we require a 2-week notice.
Can you accommodate special needs pets?
We can accommodate many special needs. Please call us to discuss how we can meet your pet’s needs when booking your visit.
What is the difference between Bittersweet Pet Resorts and the former Alpha Boarding Center?
We are owned and operated by a local veterinary technician and pet groomer whose sole desire is to provide your pets with the best level of care. We have upgraded the facility amenities and extended hours; adding grooming, training, packages, group play, and daycare events. Our staff is certified in PPBC, OPC, and PackPro, offering top-of-the-line wellness systems. Come see the difference!
What vaccines does my dog need to stay?
For the safety of all our guests, we require dogs be up to date on their vaccinations for rabies, DHLPP (distemper), and Bordetella.
When can I drop off and pick up my pet?
Check-in can be any time during our operating hours. We recommend dropping off a bit before closing so your pet has time to settle in. You can also check-out any time during business hours, but if you pick up before 12 noon Monday-Saturday you won’t be charged the nightly rate. On Sundays, the day charge always applies.
Our operating hours are:
Monday-Friday 7:30 am-7:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm
Sunday 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
Can I tour the facility?
Absolutely, we’d love for you to see our home! Facility tours can be done any time during our operating hours Monday-Saturday.
I’m nervous about boarding my pet. How do I know my pet will be taken care of?
Here at Bittersweet Pet Resorts, we pride ourselves on offering the best pet care services in the Michiana area. Your furry loved one will be adored and showered in attention just like he or she would be at home. If you’re concerned about your pet’s daily routine, please give us a call at 269-278-8100.
Do you offer a trial stay?
We don’t offer a trial stay, but we do offer your first day of daycare for free! This way you can see how much your pet enjoys playing at Bittersweet Pet Resorts and get a chance to meet us!
I have multiple pets. Can they lodge together?
Absolutely. We have large accommodations for multi-pet families to stay in together. Give us a call at 269-278-8100 so we can set up your family’s stay.
Absolutely. We have large accommodations for multi-pet families to stay in together. Give us a call at 269-278-8100 so we can set up your family’s stay.
We certainly can. Please bring any medications in their original containers with clear instructions.
Can I bring my pet’s food?
Of course! We just ask you please bring it in a waterproof container.
Can my pet bring his/her favorite toy?
Absolutely. It’s important to us that your pet feel at home here, so you’re welcome to bring toys. We just ask you please bring no more than 5 items per pet so we can ensure good tracking of each item.
What vaccinations does my dog need to join daycare at Bittersweet Pet Resorts?
Dogs must be up to date on rabies, DHLPP (distemper), and Bordetella vaccinations for daycare enrollment.
Can I schedule a tour of the Bittersweet Pet Resorts facility?
Yes, tours are available during regular business hours Monday through Saturday; staff will gladly show you around.
Is a trial evaluation required before enrolling my dog in daycare?
Yes, the first daycare day includes a 4-6 hour observation to assess your dog's personality and play style for proper group matching.
What activities will my dog engage in during daycare?
Dogs enjoy multiple play sessions with friends and staff, space to run, rest in sunshine, and have potty breaks throughout the day.
What are the operating hours for drop-off and pick-up at Bittersweet Pet Resorts?
Drop-off is recommended before 12 noon to maximize playtime; pick-up is by 7pm. Hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 am-7:00 pm, Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm, Sunday 3:00 pm-6:00 pm.
How do I make a reservation for my pet at Bittersweet Pet Resorts?
Please call (269) 684-7361 or visit https://www.bittersweetpetresorts.com/contact/ to schedule your pet's stay or daycare.
Can I add extra activities like grooming or training to my dog's daycare plan?
Yes, you can customize packages to include additional walks, bathing, grooming, spa services, and training.
Are special needs pets accommodated at Bittersweet Pet Resorts?
Yes, many special needs pets can be accommodated; please call ahead to discuss your pet's specific requirements.
What nearby places can I visit before or after my pet's stay at Bittersweet Pet Resorts?
Nearby, you can visit Bittersweet Pet Resorts - Niles, Bittersweet Pet Resort & Stables, or use dog parks and training services offered at Bittersweet Pet Resorts - Niles.
How can nearby dog training and park facilities at Bittersweet Pet Resorts - Niles enhance my dog's experience?
You can complement your dog's stay with training sessions and visits to the dog park at the nearby Bittersweet Pet Resorts - Niles, helping your pet socialize and learn new skills.