Gone to the dogs: Retiree opens local doggy day care
By Julie Schooley
MARSHFIELD – When Patti Christensen retired from teaching she knew she wouldn’t be sitting around bored. She decided to take her love and passion for dogs and started doing home visits with dogs to try and understand their anxiety and other issues such as confidence and socialization. She met with dogs and their owners and worked with them to figure out what kind issue the animal may need with.
Shortly after starting home visits, Patti came up with a new idea – she wanted to create a place where dogs could come and learn together. With 60-plus acres of land, Patti knew she could make a large, fun learning environment for dogs right in her backyard.
Christensen opened her dream, Almosta Ranch K9 Learning Center in August 2018. In the facilities, she has created different learning zones for the dogs: an exploration experience, socialization spot, plunge pool, scent adventure, park area, nature trails, and even a confidence zone, which includes a confidence boosting agility course. She works with each individual dog based on their needs.
Almost Ranch has three different options for your dog. One is a full day of dog day care where you can add on the learning experience, or you can schedule a one hour private learning session. Beginning in October, there will also be a boarding option.
Patti’s mission is to help dogs learn to be dogs. Her brother, Randy, a retired psychologist, volunteers time at the learning center and loves working with dogs with special needs.
To learn more, visit the open house on Oct. 20, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Learning Center, 10747 County Hwy BB, Marshfield, or call 715-305-1802.
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