Ocean City’s First Dog Hotel and Daycare: A New Opportunity for Pet Owners

Ocean City has long been a beloved vacation spot for families, but now it may be expanding its welcome to four-legged visitors as well. A proposal is set to go before the zoning board on March 19, 2025, to establish the town’s first dog hotel and daycare facility. If approved, this development would mark a significant shift in Ocean City’s approach to pet-friendly accommodations.

Local developer Jake Gallagher is leading the initiative, seeking to transform a commercial property at 204 Seventh Street into a facility designed to cater to dogs in need of boarding and daytime care. Plans for the project include 31 indoor kennels, designated indoor exercise areas, and a 400-square-foot outdoor play zone with synthetic turf. The space would be enclosed with a six-foot vinyl fence to ensure safety and privacy. Additionally, the existing building would receive exterior upgrades such as new lighting, siding, windows, and doors to enhance its appearance.

Ocean City’s Evolving Approach to Pet Businesses

For years, Ocean City has prohibited kennels, dog breeders, and pet stores, limiting options for pet owners in need of care services while in town. Even those willing to seek a zoning variance were unable to secure a business license due to local restrictions.

However, a new ordinance passed on January 23, 2025, has altered the landscape, allowing dog daycare centers to apply for a mercantile license—but only if they first obtain a zoning variance. While this change does not guarantee approval for such businesses, it offers a potential path forward for those looking to open pet care facilities.

During discussions on the ordinance, City Solicitor Dorothy McCrosson stressed that while pet daycare centers may now be permitted under strict conditions, dog-breeding operations remain illegal, ensuring that puppy mills will not gain a foothold in the city. Some council members, including Keith Hartzell and Jody Levchuk, expressed reservations about whether the ordinance could inadvertently allow loopholes for breeders. However, city officials have reassured residents that strict regulations remain in place to prevent such activity.

Zoning Hurdles and Public Opinion

Gallagher’s proposed dog hotel is the first business to test the new ordinance. While its location in an industrial zone may work in its favor—especially since veterinary hospitals are already permitted nearby—pet boarding facilities still require additional approval. Nearby businesses, including a dog grooming shop, suggest that a pet-related facility could be a reasonable fit for the area.

Public reaction has been divided. Some residents see this as a welcome addition, particularly as more families seek pet-friendly vacation options. Others worry about potential disruptions, including noise, increased traffic, and other logistical concerns. The zoning board’s decision will likely weigh both perspectives before determining whether the project can proceed.

Ocean City’s Growing Dog-Friendly Reputation

While the city has historically placed limits on pet-related businesses, it has also embraced dog-friendly initiatives through various events and seasonal allowances:

• Dog Park Access: A dedicated dog park is located at 45th Street and Haven Avenue.
• Beach Access in the Offseason: From October 1 to April 30, leashed dogs are permitted on Ocean City’s beaches.
• Annual Events: The city hosts well-loved dog-friendly celebrations, including the Doo Dah Parade in April and the Howl-O-Ween Parade, which allows dogs on the Boardwalk for a weekend in October.

What’s Next for Ocean City’s Dog Owners?

With a growing demand for pet-friendly services, the proposed dog hotel could provide a much-needed resource for residents and visitors alike. If approved, the facility would offer a reliable option for dog owners who need boarding and daycare services while enjoying all that Ocean City has to offer.

The March 19 zoning board meeting will ultimately decide whether this facility moves forward. If approved, it could set a precedent for similar pet-friendly businesses in Ocean City, further solidifying the town as a destination for both families and their furry companions.