Anyone who knows David and Valerie McInnes knows how much they love animals.
At the end of June 2023, Barkland in the Parkland Pet Resort and Crematorium was born. They board fully vaccinated domestic pets, primarily dogs and cats, for people who need to travel or have something going on. Barkland in the Parkland provides them with a safe space.
They also take care of cremations for loved ones lost. Then there's Barkland Bridges Inc. That's a not-for-profit rescue. They take in wayward animals from several municipalities. Simply put, David, Valerie, and the entire crew at Barkland in the Parkland Pet Resort and Crematorium are all in.
In business for just more than three years, David said it's been amazing, humbling, overwhelming, exhausting, and thoroughly enjoyable, all in one.
From the minute the furry friends arrive on the property to the moment they go home, David says it's been an incredible experience.
"Seeing the joy when they first come. They get to see all their friends at Barkland and us," said McInnes. "It's just amazing. Also, when we take a wayward pet in. Whether that's a stray that was lost and wandering, or a dog or cat that wasn't doing well. We help rehabilitate them and move them onto, hopefully, their forever home."
For quite some time, clients have been asking David and staff to run sessions to help build your relationship with your canine. Yuliana ran a kennel in Ukraine for many years before immigrating to Canada and arriving in Dauphin. She has more than 25 years of experience working with dogs.
Just like Barkland in the Parkland Pet Resort and Crematorium was born three years ago, Tips and Tricks for Treats will be born later this month.
There are five sessions that will help you build your relationship with your dog. McInnes says it's a way to learn other ways to build your connection and relationship with your dog.
"When I was just a young lad, I used to say I didn't want to give my dog obedience training. It would take the character out of them and take who they are away," said McInnes. "That couldn't be any farther from the truth. Dogs and cats look to their humans for support, safety, communication, and direction. Building that relationship makes it so much safer and easier for them to exist."
The sessions are on September 15, 17, 22, 24, and 29. It's $189 per person for all five sessions. Each session begins at 6:00 p.m. and runs for roughly 45 minutes.
Clients who register can bring their own crate for their furry friend.
"For those who don't, we will provide. Having that ability to go into their instinctual den-type home, have a timeout, take a break, that's important," said McInnes. "They can get overwhelmed, just like humans. It's mainly designed around puppies, but not totally. Bring your puppy, bring your dog."
To register for the sessions, head here. Don't delay; there are only spots for eight dogs.
