Nestled amidst the prairies and serene landscapes, The Farm Pet Retreat is more than a boarding facility—it’s a sanctuary where dogs thrive, learn, and play. At the heart of this extraordinary place is a visionary who has turned a love for animals into a mission: redefining what it means to care for dogs.
“From the beginning, I wanted to create an environment where dogs aren't just safe—they’re thriving,” Say's The Farm's owner Rachelle Dion. “Dogs, like people, thrive when their minds and bodies are engaged. I wanted to craft a space where their instincts, personalities, and needs are celebrated and nurtured."
The Farm Pet Retreat started small, offering one-on-one care in a serene, natural setting. Over time, it grew into a haven that combined state-of-the-art facilities with a deep understanding of canine psychology. Every element was thoughtfully designed—from the tranquil boarding accommodations to our expansive, groomed trails that now host unique workshops like kick sledding and skijoring.
These winter activities allow dogs and their owners to bond over exhilarating experiences that harness their energy and natural instincts in a structured way. While these are perfect for the colder months, their summer offerings are just as exciting. During warmer weather, they focus on other natural instincts through activities like dock jumping in a state-of-the-art outdoor pool and coursing with a lure system. Dock jumping is a great way for dogs to burn energy while having fun, and coursing provides a safe outlet for prey drive while teaching essential cues like “leave it.” These skills not only create a more balanced dog but also help in real-life scenarios, such as walking your dog without pulling or reacting to distractions.
They are thrilled to announce that their kick sledding and skijoring workshops have returned this January, with available workshops on January 25, February 8 and 23. These are fantastic opportunities to try something new with your dog, enjoy the crisp winter air, and strengthen your bond. Workshops are filling up fast, call The Farm today to book your spot!
Stress-Free Grooming, Redefined:
The grooming facility is one of the cornerstones of The Farm Pet Retreat, embodying their philosophy of a stress-free environment. Every grooming session is conducted on a one-on-one basis, ensuring that each dog receives individualized attention in a calm, quiet atmosphere. This approach minimizes stress and allows the highly skilled groomers to focus on creating a positive experience for your pet.
From breed-specific trims to luxurious spa treatments, their grooming services are designed to meet the highest standards while prioritizing your dog’s comfort and well-being. They believe that grooming should be more than a necessity—it should be a pampering, enjoyable experience that leaves your dog looking and feeling their best.
This one-on-one philosophy is woven into everything offered at The Farm, from the training sessions to the boarding services. By focusing on each dog’s unique needs, they create a truly personalized and stress-free experience.
Why We Built a Sports Athletic Center for Dogs:
The Farm Pet Retreat always believed that a dog’s natural instincts are the key to their happiness—and to their obedience. That’s why Rachelle created a sports athletic center designed to cater specifically to dogs’ drives and instincts.
The Farm's philosophy is simple: rather than suppressing or removing a dog’s natural drives, work with them. Whether it’s prey drive, herding instincts, or the desire to run, chase, and play, these are what make a dog truly happy. By channeling these instincts through structured activities and training, to help dogs burn energy, stimulate their minds, and develop better focus.
Activities like dock jumping, coursing lure systems, and seasonal workshops aren’t just fun—they’re transformative. They allow dogs to engage their instincts in a productive way, reducing “problematic” behaviors that stem from boredom or frustration. When a dog’s instincts are respected and nurtured, obedience becomes a natural result, and both the dog and their owner live a happier, healthier life.
"This belief is why I built The Farm Pet Retreat the way I did." explains Rachelle. "It’s a place where dogs can thrive, where their needs are understood, and where their owners can learn to connect with them on a deeper level."
The Future of Canine Wellness:
Their commitment to canine wellness has driven them to constantly evolve. "This spring, we’re excited to break ground on an indoor hydrotherapy pool, an addition that will revolutionize the way we care for dogs recovering from injuries, managing arthritis, or simply enjoying a refreshing and low-impact workout. Hydrotherapy is a gentle yet powerful tool for improving mobility, strengthening muscles, and boosting overall well-being." Rachelle states enthusiastically.
To make their services even more accessible, they will be introducing transportation to and from Portage, ensuring that dogs from a wider area can benefit from everything The Farm has to offer.
Why It All Matters:
The Farm Pet Retreat is not just a business; it’s a reflection of Rachelle's belief that dogs deserve more than basic care—they deserve lives full of joy, engagement, and fulfillment. By providing both physical and mental exercise, they are giving dogs the tools they need to thrive and strengthening the bond between them and their owners.
As they continue to grow, the mission remains the same: to create a place where dogs and their families feel supported, understood, and valued. The Farm Pet Retreat is not just a retreat for dogs—it’s a community dedicated to their happiness and well-being. And every day, Rachelle feels grateful to be part of that journey.
Don’t miss out on their January and February kick sledding and skijoring workshops—call today to reserve your spot!