Category: Uncategorized

Dog Boarding Ontario

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Boarding Ontario
Best Friends Forever!

Finally!  Pull out the picnic baskets and beach umbrellas.   It looks like we are going to be able to start enjoying this summer weather!  As the lockdown restrictions are incrementally lifted, our options for travel expand!  Off to the cottage, the campground or a friend’s backyard?  Wonderful!  Now, what about your dog?

Planning Your Dog’s Vacation

Well, don’t forget to organize your dog’s vacation too!  While you are off reconnecting with friends and family your dog could be making their own friends or reconnecting with old ones.  At Groovytown Dog Lodge we cater to the social needs of the canine variety.  Our group hikes and large fenced parks allow your dog to play, run, and explore to their heart’s content.


Is Your Dog Feeling a Bit Shy?

After a long lock-down, many dogs are unfamiliar with the social aspects of life.  As we have been asked to avoid contact with all but our own households, so too, many dogs have been taught to avoid other dogs and people while out on their hikes.  As a natural consequence, this has made for some very shy dogs. 

We have seen a lot of this shyness at the Lodge over the past few months.  The good news is that with patience and love, we can work with your dog to get them out of their shell.  By bringing shy dogs into the group – usually starting on a leash – we are able to show these dogs that they are in a safe place and that the other dogs just want to be friends.

A Day at the Lodge

At Groovytown Dog Lodge we specialize in off-leash social escapades in our private, fenced, adventure parks. Our signature off-leash group adventure hikes are enjoyed by all of our day campers & overnight guests.

Your dog will get to play with other dogs, run through acres of fields and explore in rich forests. Whether your dog loves to follow a scent or chase butterflies, Groovytown Dog Lodge provides the space for your dog to express their unique personality.

Dog Boarding Ontario is one click away!

If you live in or near Kingston, Ontario, or you are passing by, then we are near you!  We are just 10 minutes west of Kingston, in Odessa.  Moments from highways 2 and the 401, we are an easy stop before heading off on your next adventure.

Be sure to plan ahead as we do ask that each of our guests join us for a complementary introductory hike.  Just like the first day you went to nursery school, your dog may need a bit of hand-holding as they are introduced to this exciting new adventure.  The introductory hike will also give you peace of mind as you see where your dog will be playing while you are away.

Once you are set up in our system then booking is simply a click away. 

Book your introductory hike today!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dog Boarding Kingston Ontario

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Boarding Kingston Ontario
Best Friends Forever!

Finally!  Pull out the picnic baskets and beach umbrellas.   It looks like we are going to be able to start enjoying this summer weather!  As the lockdown restrictions are incrementally lifted, our options for travel expand!  Off to the cottage, the campground or a friend’s backyard?  Wonderful!  Now, what about your dog?

Planning Your Dog’s Vacation

Well, don’t forget to organize your dog’s vacation too!  While you are off reconnecting with friends and family your dog could be making their own friends or reconnecting with old ones.  At Groovytown Dog Lodge we cater to the social needs of the canine variety.  Our group hikes and large fenced parks allow your dog to play, run, and explore to their heart’s content.


Is Your Dog Feeling a Bit Shy?

After a long lock-down, many dogs are unfamiliar with the social aspects of life.  As we have been asked to avoid contact with all but our own households, so too, many dogs have been taught to avoid other dogs and people while out on their hikes.  As a natural consequence, this has made for some very shy dogs. 

We have seen a lot of this shyness at the Lodge over the past few months.  The good news is that with patience and love, we can work with your dog to get them out of their shell.  By bringing shy dogs into the group – usually starting on a leash – we are able to show these dogs that they are in a safe place and that the other dogs just want to be friends.

A Day at the Lodge

At Groovytown Dog Lodge we specialize in off-leash social escapades in our private, fenced, adventure parks. Our signature off-leash group adventure hikes are enjoyed by all of our day campers & overnight guests.

Your dog will get to play with other dogs, run through acres of fields and explore in rich forests. Whether your dog loves to follow a scent or chase butterflies, Groovytown Dog Lodge provides the space for your dog to express their unique personality.

Dog Boarding Kingston Ontario is one click away!

If you live in or near Kingston, Ontario, then we are near you!  We are just 10 minutes west of Kingston, in Odessa.  Moments from highways 2 and the 401, we are an easy stop before heading off on your next adventure.

Be sure to plan ahead as we do ask that each of our guests join us for a complementary introductory hike.  Just like the first day you went to nursery school, your dog may need a bit of hand-holding as they are introduced to this exciting new adventure.  The introductory hike will also give you peace of mind as you see where your dog will be playing while you are away.

Once you are set up in our system then booking is simply a click away. 

Book your introductory hike today!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dog Boarding Near Me

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Boarding Near Me
Best Friends Forever!

Finally!  Pull out the picnic baskets and beach umbrellas.   It looks like we are going to be able to start enjoying this summer weather!  As the lockdown restrictions are incrementally lifted, our options for travel expand!  Off to the cottage, the campground or a friend’s backyard?  Wonderful!  Now, what about your dog?

Planning Your Dog’s Vacation

Well, don’t forget to organize your dog’s vacation too!  While you are off reconnecting with friends and family your dog could be making their own friends or reconnecting with old ones.  At Groovytown Dog Lodge we cater to the social needs of the canine variety.  Our group hikes and large fenced parks allow your dog to play, run, and explore to their heart’s content.


Is Your Dog Feeling a Bit Shy?

After a long lock-down, many dogs are unfamiliar with the social aspects of life.  As we have been asked to avoid contact with all but our own households, so too, many dogs have been taught to avoid other dogs and people while out on their hikes.  As a natural consequence, this has made for some very shy dogs. 

We have seen a lot of this shyness at the Lodge over the past few months.  The good news is that with patience and love, we can work with your dog to get them out of their shell.  By bringing shy dogs into the group – usually starting on a leash – we are able to show these dogs that they are in a safe place and that the other dogs just want to be friends.

A Day at the Lodge

At Groovytown Dog Lodge we specialize in off-leash social escapades in our private, fenced, adventure parks. Our signature off-leash group adventure hikes are enjoyed by all of our day campers & overnight guests.

Your dog will get to play with other dogs, run through acres of fields and explore in rich forests. Whether your dog loves to follow a scent or chase butterflies, Groovytown Dog Lodge provides the space for your dog to express their unique personality.

Plan Ahead and Your Booking Will Be a Click Away

Are you googling ‘dog boarding near me’?  If you live in or near Kingston, Ontario, then we are near you!  We are just 10 minutes west of Kingston, in Odessa.  Moments from highways 2 and the 401, we are an easy stop before heading off on your next adventure.

Be sure to plan ahead as we do ask that each of our guests join us for a complementary introductory hike.  Just like the first day you went to nursery school, your dog may need a bit of hand-holding as they are introduced to this exciting new adventure.  The introductory hike will also give you peace of mind as you see where your dog will be playing while you are away.

Once you are set up in our system then booking is simply a click away. 

Book your introductory hike today!

← Back

Thank you for your response. ✨

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dog Sitting Kingston

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Sitting Kingston
3 dogs carrying a stick. Middle dog is looking at the camera.

Dog sitting has become a popular way to get some extra cash while hanging out with one earth’s greatest creatures – dogs!  But how do you know if you are hiring a good dog sitter?  You know you want someone who is going to ensure your dog’s safety, using the same level of care that you use when caring for your dog.  You want to know there will be openness and honesty from your dog sitter.  And of course, you want to trust that they will show your dog love and kindness.

But how do you know that the person you are hiring can be trusted to measure up to these standards? 

Lean On Your Community

Before you hire someone, try to get referrals from friends, your local pet store, or your veterinarian.  If you find someone online then read through the reviews – negative as well as the positive. 

Smell Test

Next step:  the smell test.  Ever notice that your dog unexpectedly doesn’t like someone.  That is their instinct kicking in.  Their smell test, if you will.  So, first and foremost, meet your potential sitter.  If you don’t feel comfortable from the start, always trust your instincts.  It doesn’t matter if you are wrong – although you will never know.  But, if you don’t trust your gut and you were right, then it will matter, and it will be too late.

Once you get past the smell test, start asking some questions. 

Ask Questions

Find out where they will be taking your dog and how.  What safety measures do they have in place?  If using a leash, are they using their leash or yours and, either way, will the dog have any chance of slipping out of the lead or collar?  For example, at Groovytown Dog Lodge we offer off-leash walks but we still use dog leads during pick-ups and drop-offs of our day hikers. We choose to use our leashes for this as we use slip leads that do not rely on a dog’s collar being properly fitted. 

Will the dog sitter have your dog around other dogs?  Do they know these other dogs and is the dog sitter sure they are friendly?  Are they up to date on their vaccinations?

What are the dog sitter’s emergency protocols for injuries and/or health issues?  Do they have training in pet first aid?

Look For A Sitter Who Will Listen

There are a lot of variables that can make you feel overwhelmed by the process.  However, a prepared and safety-conscious sitter will have thought about these concerns and will be happy discuss these concerns.

Ultimately, no matter how much care you take, here is always going to be some risk of something happening – and this is true whether your dog is with you are your sitter.  What you want to know is if your sitter is careful enough to avoid the avoidable and prepared enough for the unavoidable. 

Why Choose Us?

Here at Groovytown Dog Lodge, just outside of Kington, Ontario, we have taken these concerns to heart.  We care for our guests like they were our own and we are always happy to answer your questions.  We also invite you to bring your dog out for an introductory hike.  That way you dog gets a chance to become familiar with our parks with mom or dad there to boost their confidence (think first day of kindergarten).  And that tour is for you too.  We want you to see where your dog will be playing when they are with us.  We are proud of what we have created and we want share it with you.

Book your introductory hike today!

Dog Sitting Ontario

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Sitting Ontario
3 dogs carrying a stick. The middle dog is looking at the camera.

Dog sitting has become a popular way to get some extra cash while hanging out with one earth’s greatest creatures – dogs!  But how do you know if you are hiring a good dog sitter?  You know you want someone who is going to ensure your dog’s safety, using the same level of care that you use when caring for your dog.  You want to know there will be openness and honesty from your dog sitter.  And of course, you want to trust that they will show your dog love and kindness.

But how do you know that the person you are hiring can be trusted to measure up to these standards? 

Before you hire someone, try to get referrals from friends, your local pet store, or your veterinarian.  If you find someone online then read through the reviews – negative as well as the positive. 

Next step:  the smell test.  Ever notice that your dog unexpectedly doesn’t like someone.  That is their instinct kicking in.  Their smell test, if you will.  So, first and foremost, meet your potential sitter.  If you don’t feel comfortable from the start, always trust your instincts.  It doesn’t matter if you are wrong – although you will never know.  But, if you don’t trust your gut and you were right, then it will matter, and it will be too late.

Once you get past the smell test, start asking some questions. 

Find out where they will be taking your dog and how.  What safety measures do they have in place?  If using a leash, are they using their leash or yours and, either way, will the dog have any chance of slipping out of the lead or collar?  For example, at Groovytown Dog Lodge we offer off-leash walks but we still use dog leads during pick-ups and drop-offs of our day hikers. We choose to use our leashes for this as we use slip leads that do not rely on a dog’s collar being properly fitted. 

Will the dog sitter have your dog around other dogs?  Do they know these other dogs and is the dog sitter sure they are friendly?  Are they up to date on their vaccinations?

What are the dog sitter’s emergency protocols for injuries and/or health issues?  Do they have training in pet first aid?

There are a lot of variables that can make you feel overwhelmed by the process.  However, a prepared and safety-conscious sitter will have thought about these concerns and will be happy discuss these concerns.

Ultimately, no matter how much care you take, here is always going to be some risk of something happening – and this is true whether your dog is with you are your sitter.  What you want to know is if your sitter is careful enough to avoid the avoidable and prepared enough for the unavoidable. 

Here at Groovytown Dog Lodge, just outside of Kington, Ontario, we have taken these concerns to heart.  We care for our guests like they were our own and we are always happy to answer your questions.  We also invite you to bring your dog out for an introductory hike.  That way you dog gets a chance to become familiar with our parks with mom or dad there to boost their confidence (think first day of kindergarten).  And that tour is for you too.  We want you to see where your dog will be playing when they are with us.  We are proud of what we have created and we want share it with you.

Book your introductory hike today!

Dog Sitting

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Sitting
3 dogs carrying a stick. The middle dog is looking at the camera.

Dog sitting has become a popular way to get some extra cash while hanging out with one earth’s greatest creatures – dogs!  But how do you know if you are hiring a good dog sitter?  You know you want someone who is going to ensure your dog’s safety, using the same level of care that you use when caring for your dog.  You want to know there will be openness and honesty from your dog sitter.  And of course, you want to trust that they will show your dog love and kindness.

But how do you know that the person you are hiring can be trusted to measure up to these standards? 

Before you hire someone, try to get referrals from friends, your local pet store, or your veterinarian.  If you find someone online then read through the reviews – negative as well as the positive. 

Next step:  the smell test.  Ever notice that your dog unexpectedly doesn’t like someone.  That is their instinct kicking in.  Their smell test, if you will.  So, first and foremost, meet your potential sitter.  If you don’t feel comfortable from the start, always trust your instincts.  It doesn’t matter if you are wrong – although you will never know.  But, if you don’t trust your gut and you were right, then it will matter, and it will be too late.

Once you get past the smell test, start asking some questions. 

Find out where they will be taking your dog and how.  What safety measures do they have in place?  If using a leash, are they using their leash or yours and, either way, will the dog have any chance of slipping out of the lead or collar?  For example, at Groovytown Dog Lodge we offer off-leash walks but we still use dog leads during pick-ups and drop-offs of our day hikers. We choose to use our leashes for this as we use slip leads that do not rely on a dog’s collar being properly fitted. 

Will the dog sitter have your dog around other dogs?  Do they know these other dogs and is the dog sitter sure they are friendly?  Are they up to date on their vaccinations?

What are the dog sitter’s emergency protocols for injuries and/or health issues?  Do they have training in pet first aid?

There are a lot of variables that can make you feel overwhelmed by the process.  However, a prepared and safety-conscious sitter will have thought about these concerns and will be happy discuss these concerns.

Ultimately, no matter how much care you take, here is always going to be some risk of something happening – and this is true whether your dog is with you are your sitter.  What you want to know is if your sitter is careful enough to avoid the avoidable and prepared enough for the unavoidable. 

Here at Groovytown Dog Lodge we have taken these concerns to heart.  We care for our guests like they were our own and we are always happy to answer your questions.  We also invite you to bring your dog out for an introductory hike.  That way you dog gets a chance to become familiar with our parks with mom or dad there to boost their confidence (think first day of kindergarten).  And that tour is for you too.  We want you to see where your dog will be playing when they are with us.  We are proud of what we have created and we want share it with you.

Book your introductory hike today!

Getting Off-leash with Your Dog

by Groovytown Dog Lodge2 Comments on Getting Off-leash with Your Dog
2 dogs walking in the snow
Dogs enjoying some off-leash adventures at Groovytown Dog Lodge.

Living through a pandemic can feel a bit like you are tethered to a leash.  So many restrictions.  Held back from doing the things you love.  Just imagine an entire life of that.  Now imagine a dog that never gets freedom from their leash. Is it time to get your dog off-leash?

Just like the current pandemic measure are meant to keep everyone safe, the leash is meant to protect your dog.  We love our dogs.   We want them to have their best lives but we also want them to have long and healthy lives.  For that reason, we use tools like leashes to keep them safe.

But just like we want to get off of our leashes, so too, our dogs crave a chance to run free, express themselves, and burn off some pent-up energy.  While leashes are a great way to manage the unexpected, our dogs need more than that.

Safety First when Unleashing the Hounds

When determining the right balance between safety and freedom for a dog, I like to compare dogs to toddlers or preschoolers.  Young children may be very well behaved – mostly following your guidance – but we still plan around those inevitable missteps. So too, we can teach our dogs manners and commands but we always want to ensure that there is a buffer zone to make room for mistakes. 

Depending on where you live, your options may be few or many.  You may live out in the country with lots of safe space to walk a dog that likes to stay close-by or has great recall.  Or perhaps you have a large dog park where you can meet up with friends for doggy play-dates. 

Training your dog for off-leash play, outside of a fenced area, will require training in a safe environment and / or the use of training aids such as a long lead. Your style of training will depend on your dog’s personality and how much prey drive they display. Please consult with a reputable trainer before unleashing your dog in an unfenced area.

Let’s Get Together to Untether!

If you are having trouble finding a safe place to give your dog this freedom then we have the answer.

At Groovytown Dog Lodge we have two private dog parks with state-of-the-art fencing, creating a safe space to get your dog off-leash.  Our parks feature acres of forests and fields, giving your dog lots of room to run, explore and socialize. 

We offer day-hikes including pick-up and drop-off in the Kingston area, daycare with early morning drop offs and early evening pick-up, as well as overnight boarding.  No matter what you sign up for, your dog will get to enjoy the trails while socializing with other dogs. 

Our highly trained staff guide the dogs on these hikes, ensuring everyone is having a good time – think of us the playground monitors you had back in grade school. 

Before you sign up for any of our services, we ask that you join us for an introductory hike.  This will give you a chance to see exactly where your pup will be spending their time.  This introduction also gives your dog a chance to get familiar with the trails. 

While on this hike, or at any other time, we would be happy to discuss off-leash training so feel free to ask.

We always look forward to seeing you so book your introductory hike today!

Dog Walker Near Me

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Dog Walker Near Me
Dog Walker Near Me

Looking for a dog walker ‘Near Me’

Dog parents often search for a “dog walker near me”. But, will your dog get the most out of a walk that is near you? Will they be stuck on a leash, walking at the same pace as their human friends? If you want more for your dog then we have a better answer.

Whatever your reason for wanting ‘a dog walker near me’, we can meet your needs while also meeting the needs of your dog. We offer exciting off-leash hikes in our fully fenced private dog parks, on our country estate, just outside of Kingston, Ontario. If you live within the Kingston area, we offer free door-to-door service.  We pick up your pup with our custom designed ‘party-vans’ to ensure fun from start to finish. So, wherever you are in Kingston, Ontario, we are near you!

Let’s get off-leash!

Our off-leash hikes take place within our private dog parks.  These parks provide a safe space for dogs to be dogs – to run, play, socialize and explore.  Our parks are big enough for dogs to stay stimulated for hours but manageable enough that we can always be within voice range of a dog that has wandered off on a solo adventure. 

And our highly trained dog walkers are always with your pup while they are out on the trails. We are there to guide the dogs and act as the ‘playground monitor’ as they socialize and explore with a consistent group of pack mates.

From pick up to drop off, your dog will have:

  • Fun
  • Adventure
  • Exercise
  • Socialization with a consistent group of pack mates
  • Mental stimulation

Our fencing is state of the art!

For dogs with less than perfect recall, we have that covered – from jumpers to climbers to diggers – our dog parks are fenced with every challenge in mind.

4 Dogs walking off-leash on a wide trail next to 6 foot high fencing.
  • For the small dog we use no-climb fencing features small wire spacing to keep even the smallest of dogs safe and secure
  • Have a the digger? Our fencing is buried 6 inches underground
  • Jumper? Our fencing rises 6 feet above ground
  • And for the super jumpers – we have finished off with an electric line at the top.

Live outside of the Kingston area?

No worries!  You are welcome to drop your dog off for daycare.  It is worth the drive for your dog to get out to Groovytown Dog Lodge.  Your pup will get the same great adventures and, during their down time, they will enjoy our spacious private dog runs.

We are the dog walkers near you. See what we are talking about – book your free introductory hike today!

Email reserve@groovytown.ca to book your dog’s next adventure!

Cross Country Skiing with your Dog

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Cross Country Skiing with your Dog
Out skiing with Django and his Groovytown Dog Lodge pack. January 2021

Looking for a way to get outside with your dog during lock-down? Cross country skiing is a great way to give your dog a good run while getting some fresh air into your lungs. 

I use Madshus backcountry xc skis. Metal edges and wax-less mean my skis are ready for any snow conditions, no grooming required. I just click and go. 

It might take a few corrections to get your dog to stay off of your skis but, no matter what, you will be out of the house spending some quality time with your bestie! 

If needed, a dog harness, leash, and waist strap will give you hands-free control of your pup as the two of you explore to your hearts content.

Please keep your dog’s fitness needs in mind. Cross country skiing can be demanding so be sure to give your dog some breaks and don’t overdo it. If you aren’t sure of your dog’s limits then give your dog’s vet a call before breaking trail.

In Kingston, you will find Madshus backcountry xc skis at Sepp’s Ski and Snowboards.

Can’t get out there with your pup? No worries! We can take care of that. See our list of services.

We would love to see what kind of outdoor fun you are getting up to with your dog this winter. Share your pics to our Groovytown Dog Lodge Instagram and Facebook pages!

Welcome Back!

by Groovytown Dog LodgeLeave a Comment on Welcome Back!

Great news! We are back to full-service starting Friday, June 24, 2020. That means you are welcome to book day hikes, daycare, and overnight boarding.

If you are already a member, click here to make a booking.

If you are not yet a member then click here to set up an intro hike.

To remain vigilant in our efforts to prevent the catching and spreading of Covid19, we are limiting the number of guests in intro hikes and will also have additional protocols that we will inform you of prior to your arrival.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Sincerely,

Kristen Kadis
Mayor of Groovytown