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Back to HomeFeature Article - February 2, 2012 Open House at Kirton's Kennels in Harrowsmithby Julie Druker

Photo: Judy Kirton of Kirton Kennels in Harrowsmith with her 13-year-old dog Pepe

The old adage that it takes one to know one is something that dog lovers can take comfort in after meeting the owner of the brand new Kirton's Kennels, located at 4854 Colebrooke Rd. in Harrowsmith.

Judy Kirton, who owns three dogs of her own, understands the special care that goes into boarding pets for owners in need of her service. Judy is a self-described animal lover who as a kid “loved to walk all of the dogs in her neighborhood”. She also bred Skye terriers for a number of years. She boards, trains and breeds horses, and coaches riders at her 50-acre farm.

She also has just constructed a brand new building on the farm specially designed for boarding dogs. The immaculate kennel boasts white melamine walls for easy cleaning, heated floors, and lots of natural light thanks to numerous windows. The building houses four separate kennels, each with rubber mats that can be easily cleaned. A radio on a shelf offers calming classical music courtesy of the CBC to the visiting guests.

Outside the building is a large fenced outdoor area where the dogs can run free. Most important of all is the individual care and attention that Judy can offer her clients. “I felt that four kennels was just the right size, since that way I can offer each animal the one on one care that they deserve. It's the care really that is so important in this business and with the smaller numbers I can spend time with each animal and really get to know them.” She is also happy to tailor her care to any other special requirements and dietary needs. Owners are encouraged to bring their own dog beds and toys so that their animals feel more at home.

When I visited the kennel, two happy dogs, Gus and Tobin, were also visiting. “Their owners brought them for a initial one-night sleepover to make sure they felt comfortable here and as you can see they are really feeling very much at home.”

Judy will be holding a Special Valentine's Day Open House on Saturday, February 11 from 10 am-4pm. Dog owners are welcome to bring along their leashed pets and can walk the 48 acre farm and also enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. They will have an opportunity to tour the kennel facility and meet Judy as well. For more information call Judy at 613-372-5540.