Doggyland offers day care, other services
Even Fido needs a play date.
And with a passion for healthy, happy animals, a love for dogs and a clever business plan, Janette McKenna helped open Doggyland day care in Spokane Valley.
“It’s a growing business (industry),” said McKenna, who serves as general manager. “We hope to be different. We hope to be a five-star resort.”
Doggyland attempts this with some 5,000 square feet of heated indoor play space divided for large and small pets, access to a fenced outdoor area, separate nap-time accommodations where classical music can be heard, attendants who encourage exercise and socializing, and daily sanitizing of floors, dishes and toys with organic cleansers. Animals also are served natural foods and purified water. And bathing and grooming services are available during their stay for an added fee.
“I’ve always been passionate about animals and I’ve had a soft spot for rescuing animals,” said McKenna, a longtime Realtor based in Coeur d’Alene. “Dogs don’t judge. They play and love and live in the moment, and make our lives more joyful.”
Doggyland is located in a section of the Freeway Center near the Interstate 90 exit off Pines Road. McKenna opened the business Oct. 15 with fiance and owner Ian Riley, a local fitness club owner.
Hours are set to fit a variety of schedules, and drop-in service is available. Doors are locked during nap time from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The facility accommodates 12 to 15 larger dogs and 20 smaller ones. Safety is a top priority and McKenna said dogs are watched to test and ensure they are socialized and safe to be around other dogs. Vaccinations also must be up-to-date.
McKenna said many pet owners choose day care for the social aspect; others don’t want to leave their dogs home alone during the workday; and still others need their animals to play and exercise more than they otherwise might get at home.
Doggyland employs three people in addition to McKenna – all of whom are training certified or working toward it, and they are involved in the local Humane Society and dog rescue.
McKenna is growing the business with the additional grooming and bathing services with specialists available whether or not pet owners use the day care. Other appointment-based services include training, biofeedback, acupuncture, vaccinations, overnight boarding and spa treatments.
Day care rates range from $12 for half day and $20 for full day for one dog. Discounted punch cards also are available and well as reduced fees for two dogs. Owners for one dog also can pay $250 for one month of unlimited day care or $400 for two dogs.
A special open-house event/adoption day with the Humane Society is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 20.