It's Not Just a House, it's a Home.

For my personal safety, security, privacy, the safety of the dogs boarding with me, and liability reasons, I no longer give physical tours of my home. Many people ask “may I tour your facility?” I do not have a “facility.” Dogs are members of my home and I take a very limited and controlled number of canines. All dogs are thoroughly evaluated and held the the highest of standards before acceptance.

Since 2012 I have happily opened my home to so many puppies and dogs. One of the best things about the Dog Ranch is the acreage it provides for so many canines to stretch their legs that otherwise do not have the opportunity.

All dogs are monitored while they are outdoors (especially when temperatures get hot during the summer) and are in a comfortable and loving home otherwise. Crates, beds, blankets, bowls, and toys are all provided so you do not have to worry about packing extra things for your dog’s getaway.

Outdoors:
My front gate remains closed at almost all times other than arrivals/departures. Once a dog has been evaluated and can be trusted and recalled, the play area is the fenced space in the front yard. For smaller dogs, times when the gate is open, or dogs I am just getting to know — I also have two smaller side yards. The side yards are utilized after dark since the space is smaller, more manageable, and all dogs can be kept under close watch (many people are concerned about cane toads in summer). All dogs ALWAYS enter and exit through the SIDE door of my home since there is an additional gate for safety. The smaller yard is the place where I encourage dogs to do their business so I can make sure for health purposes dog poop is picked up and not scattered throughout the yard. DOGS ARE NEVER ALLOWED TO INTERACT OR MEET EQUINES.

Indoors:
For dogs needing crates or typically do not have “full run” at your home, I have a specific area referred to as the “Dog Den.” I have various sizes of crates that get set up and broken down regularly depending on the dogs I have and who requires what (I also am diligent about separating dogs for feeding). For dogs needing a crate-free experience, it always begins in the Dog Den until we can determine they do not chew, scent mark, no signs of separation anxiety, they are neutral with other dogs, etc. Young puppies or board and train dogs will automatically be in a different area of the house to prevent cross-contamination and training purposes to limit exposure to additional dogs.

Since I am home the majority of the time (other than errands and personal commitments), dogs receive a personalized experience based upon their specific needs. Depending on the weather, dogs who need to stretch their legs are given adequate outdoor time, whereas dogs who are more indoor dogs are never forced to go out and may enjoy time indoors if they choose. The answers is always: it depends on the dog. I do not allow dogs to harass or bother dogs not interested in engaging in activity. Careful observation for signs of discomfort or stress are extremely important to me. I always do my best to provide honest and transparent feedback to owners while their dog is under my care.