Path & Paw Is Up and Running!

We have been making lot's of progress on the farm, and my first enclosure is finally in working order!



We've begun work on a new shade structure and feed shed for the llama and pig, who previously occupied the daycare space, and we've moved Keiko's pig house. We still need to put a roof on the structure, but we've been able to move Draco's llama food over to the new area. We've also put in a double gate in the entryway, so all pooches can be unleashed before greeting on another and to prevent any dogs from sneaking out while another dog enters. We've re-fenced the area, with taller fencing, plus fortified gates to keep sneaky dogs (lookin at you, Muchacho) from making their way into the llama and pig enclosure. The space we have now is about 30ft x 40ft, and has been filled with a nice layer of wood chip. Our entryway is covered, and when there are no ins and outs, it also serves as my "office" and a shady area for the dogs to relax.

This is only the beginning though! Soon we will be getting a big 10ft x 17ft outdoor tent which we will build a foundation for and anchor down in the play area, so during rainy days the pups and I have a cozy place to hang out. To the right of the existing enclosure, there is another, larger area, that we ware in the process of cleaning out and fencing more securely, which will give me the ability to split daycare dogs into different play groups based on their size, energy level, etc. This will also give me more room to take dogs aside for training sessions during daycare. I'll also be moving in a large dog kennel, which I can add material to, to create another shady zone. Having a variety of structures let's the dogs get some alone time, as well, and I have plans to turn this old kennel into a comfy relaxation space, where dogs can go work on a treat puzzle, enjoy a peanut butter bone, or even take a nap.

We have a tub that was previously used as a drinking trough for the llama, which we will set up as a cooling station during the warmer months. We've dug a long trench alongside the fence, so we can connect the tub to a little irrigation system, so that draining the tub will water our plants! There are also plans to bring in tunnels, structures for climbing, and even a designated digging area — our daycare will truly become a puppy playground in time!

I am also available for private training — whether that's in your home, in my space, or out and about. Once I get a few more things settled I will begin scheduling group classes for training, as well. Contact me if you are interested in signing up for daycare or training, although keep in mind that the space is primarily outdoors, so on wet days daycare is best for healthy dogs that enjoy a good frolic in the rain! Daycare is available 8am - 6pm, Monday through Friday, but please call ahead. You can reach me at (707) 536-1288 or email me at tressa@pathandpaw.com. You can also book me via DogVacay at www.dogvacay/pro/tressa and save $10 if it's your first time using the website.

Photos of our progress so far:

The before photo.

Very helpful pups working on re-doing the entry wall so we can add another gate.

The new double gate - perfect for when Muchacho got neutered and needed to take it easy while the huskies wrestled and romped!

Badger and Koa wrestle while Muchacho rests from behind the double gate.

Putting up the new fence.

Draco checks out his new barn, which we will be putting a roof on shortly!

Happy daycare friends take a break from play! Our daycare pups practice disengaging from play at intervals, especially when someone seems to be getting over-stimulated. Everyone gets a few treats for showing off nice calm behaviors like sits and downs!

Soon this tub will be cleaned and hooked up to a little irrigation system, so on warm days the dogs can hop in, and when the tub is drained and cleaned, the water will won't be wasted, but will go to a row of plants we'll put in along the fence line!

This is a before photo of the larger enclosure we are still working on!

The area has been mostly cleared out now, but we still have some fencing to put up and will be changing out the gates before it will be usable — stay tuned!