If you're a pet parent who feels uncomfortable having someone you don't know care for your fur baby in your absence, you're not alone. After all, like everyone else, you want your furry family members to receive the best care possible.
It's a common anxiety among dog owners, and finding a professional, qualified, transparent and trustworthy dog daycare or boarding environment can be stressful and challenging.
If you're looking for more than just a safe clean place for your pet to stay, somewhere they'll make friends with other dogs and participate in outdoor, off-leash play, there's a paws-itively perfect solution at hand.
When you drop off your beloved canine at the cage and fear-free Pathfinder Dog Ranch, located at 13800 No.3 Road on an acreage in rural Steveston, it's akin to leaving your child with their favourite family member— where they get to have their own vacation and you feel as relaxed as they do.
"When your pet comes to stay with us, they don't know we're 'hired' to care for them, they just know us as family who love them and look out for their best interests," says Chantale Fontaine, owner/operator, Pathfinder Pet Care & Dog Ranch.
"We become a second home for your pet while you're away; it's a positive experience for them."
Industry leaders, raising standards
Fontaine is one of three British Columbians who is a certified Professional Animal Care Provider (CPACP) with the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC), and an active member of the International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA), which provides her with the industry expertise to provide optimal care for your pet. Fontaine is also a member of the Steveston Merchants Association and the Richmond Chamber of Commerce.
Her team is committed to the highest industry standards, with each member possessing unique experiences to contribute while all are skilled and trained with the latest resources approved by PACCC.
Pathfinder also partners with local vets for medical care support during your pets' stay, and works closely with leading canine behaviour expert, Sheila Gunston, Dip. CBST, PCBC-A, FDM, C-CCC.
Providing practical pet care in Richmond
On the ranch, you can expect quality engagement and that your pet's social and emotional needs will be a pivotal component of their experience, with plenty of love and companionship, plus a low ratio of dogs to handler, which affords lots of bonding time.
Pathfinder's comprehensive services include overnight boarding, dog daycare/dog day camp, off-leash hikes, private walks, in-home pet sitting and behavioural consultation. Their social boarding environment also creates mutual respect among their guests so they can co-exist harmoniously.
"Our job is to advocate for all our guests so the dogs feel safe," reveals Fontaine. "It's this approach that makes us successful caring for shy dogs, dogs with anxiety and fear reactivity."
Social boarding provides multiple care packages that can be added to the stay in addition to fun, rest and relaxation.
"We have a variety of access to large outdoor areas for play and exploration, which is crucial to providing environmental enrichment and helps staff effectively redirect dog's energy in positive ways," explains Fontaine.
Trial day, pet assessment
While Pathfinder welcomes your pets with open arms, it doesn’t necessarily mean that all dogs are suitable for daycare or a group boarding setting. As such, the ranch conducts a four-hour trial day to observe your furry friend’s behaviour and body language to ensure a good fit all around.
"I encourage potential clients to ask lots of questions, set up a meet and greet or trial day," says Fontaine, claiming she wants owners to not only make an informed decision to choose them as their pet’s care provider, but also have them feel reassured that they’ve made the best decision for their pet.
"We strive to create life-long relationships with both our canine and human clients," she adds. "As your dog becomes a part of our Pathfinder family, Pathfinder becomes a part of your family."
For more information, visit PathfinderDogRanch.com.
