Est. 2013 · Goldsboro, NC

Your dog's home
away from home.

Loving overnight boarding, full-service grooming, and high-energy day play — for the dogs and cats of Wayne County. Family-owned, staffed by people who treat your pet like their own.

Book a Stay
Or call us anytime919-288-2837
Dogs playing together in the yard at Eli's Friends
Goldsboro's
Favorite
★ 5-Star Day CareOpen 7 DaysDogs & Cats WelcomeFamily-Owned Since 2013

What we do

Three services. One promise.

Treat every pet like family. We've been doing it the same way since the Rae family opened our doors in 2013.

A happy English bulldog at Eli's Friends

Our story

Built by a family, for your family.

Eli's Friends was named after a puppy adopted by the Rae family in 2013. Ron and Barrett Rae couldn't find a place safe and loving enough to leave him, so they built one. Our staff are seasoned, attentive, and consider animal care their passion.

  • 2 outdoor + 3 indoor play yards
  • Anti-fatigue flooring & durable artificial grass
  • Daily staff-run playgroups
  • Regular nourishment & potty breaks
  • Cat boarding available
  • Open every day except Christmas & New Year's
Meet the family

What folks are saying

Five stars, tail wags included.

5.0 on Google
Boarding
I have used Eli's multiple times and never been disappointed. The staff is awesome, and when I pick up my pet from boarding he is always fresh and clean.
RRay
Day Play
Always a fun experience for our dog, Jack.
TThomas
Boarding
Staff is absolutely amazing. My go-to for our dogs.
JJanice
Grooming
I can't remember ever finding a place where everything is perfect. They are giving amazing care to my senior dog! She always looks great!! Outstanding!!
CClarence

Reviews from our Google Business listing. We read every one.

Read all reviews on Google

Community outreach

We partner with the Wayne County Humane Society's Pet Food Pantry — accepting dog & cat food donations year-round — and show up for neighbors during local disasters and holidays.

Find us
4223 US Hwy 70 E
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Hours
Mon–Fri 6:30a–6p
Sat 8:30a–3:30p · Sun 4–6p pickup

Good questions, straight answers.

Ready to book a stay?

Give us a call and we'll get your dog or cat on the calendar — and answer every question you have along the way.