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These dogs' lives not too rough
By COLLEEN MCCULLOUGH
01/27/2007
CHESTER SPRINGS - Two played tug-of-war and one ran up a small slide. At the same time another one ran under the slide and one sat in the corner - wagging its tail. At the new Day Care Center, which opened mid-October, dogs enjoy socializing, napping, and receiving treats all while being carefully watched. "It's good for them," Linda Ludwig, Day Care Manager, said. "It gives stimulation to their minds and gives them physical exercise." But beyond the physical and mental benefits, Ludwig says the new Day Care Center provides an opportunity for spiritual growth for the dogs. "They're pack animals," Ludwig said. "That is why they get along so well. And it helps them socialize for other activities, like walks in the park, too." The dogs, growing in number each week, can socialize in two play yards - one inside and one outside. But in both, the slides and plastic toys are clearly reminiscent of equipment you would see at a human Day Care Center. Riley, a black and white dog, climbed the slide and stood at the top overlooking his four-legged pals. Another dog hopped on an elevated platform, sat down, taking her place on the throne of the indoor Day Care Center. "They're hilarious," Allison Connett, General Manager, said. "They play on the equipment just like kids." And just like kids, nap time is important. "We found if they don't get that time, they're grumpy when they get sent home," Connett said. Dogs can go to the Day Care Center for a half or full day, and for as many days as the owner wishes, Monday through Friday. "A lot of people are working now and dogs are in crates," Ludwig said. "This gives them structure and important interaction." And the dogs get graded on their performances, going home with a report card and picture each day.
But the new Day Care Center is not the only new feature at the long-standing Hickory Springs Farm Kennel. Mike Friend, a certified trainer and behaviorist, is now available to work with the dogs and gives both private and group lessons. Training is offered in basic obedience, advanced obedience, agility, tracking, search and rescue, and behavior modification. Together, the entire staff works together to bring care to the pets owners leave in their hands, and enhance the relationship between owner and pet. "Everyone is important," Connett said. "It's all about the animals. We treat them like they're our own." The family-owned Hickory Springs Farm Kennel, covering 16 acres, is celebrating its 45th year of business with bringing in some new attractions.
Along with the new items offered this year, the kennel continues to offer the boarding and grooming that have been provided for the past 20 years. Full grooms include a therapeutic massage, brush out, nail clipping, ear cleaning, pet clip and fluff dry. The animals stay in an area that is fully climate-controlled, can have access to indoor and outdoor runs, and can have food off a new a la carte menu. "It's good we're growing and changing like this," Connett said. "But our principals remain the same. We love the animals." For more information about what is offered at Hickory Springs Farm Kennel, call 610-933-9584 or visit www.hickoryspringsfarm.com.
©The Phoenix 2007
