A love of dogs.
A leap of faith.
Kelsy has been in the dog world since she was 8 years old. Jonathan arrived from Dublin in 2011 and crossed paths with Kelsy at a dog training facility in 2013 — and from that moment, everything changed.
Together they built and operated Albon Dog Ranch on Nova Scotia's South Shore from 2014 to 2021, transforming it into a multi-award-winning facility that clients would drive nearly 500km round-trip to use. "In their words," says Kelsy, "they don't want to leave their dogs with anybody else."
In September 2021 they took a leap of faith — moving to Yarmouth County and opening Dogwood Lodge Pet Retreat in February 2022. Named Rising Star of the Year by the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce in 2023, and nominated every year since, it has grown into a full-service retreat: boarding, daycare, world-class grooming, training, and retail.
"It's not a job, it's a lifestyle," Kelsy says. "You're looking after someone's baby. It's a responsibility and a privilege."
"There are no limits as to what you can accomplish, except the limits that you place on your own thinking."
— Brian Tracy
Not just a facility.
A second home.
Choosing the wrong facility can have lasting consequences for your dog. We eliminate that risk — every single day.
Between us we have three dogs of our own. Kelsy has been in this world since she was 8. Jonathan since 2013. We don’t just understand your worries — we feel them too.
Eight years at the award-winning Albon Dog Ranch. Rising Star of the Year 2023. IBPSA members. Clients who drive 500km round-trip because they trust no one else with their dog.
Climate-controlled spaces, matched playgroups, 24/7 security cameras, calming music, enrichment activities, and experienced caregivers — every detail considered, nothing left to chance.
Rooted in excellence.
Built on heart.
Every member of our team shares the same belief — that every dog deserves to be treated like family.
Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Jonathan relocated to Nova Scotia in April 2011 bringing with him a lifelong love of animals, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a diverse professional background. His journey into the dog world began in 2013 when he met Kelsy — and what started as attending training classes with his own dog quickly became a calling he hasn't looked back from since.
Kelsy has been immersed in the canine world since the age of 8 — and she hasn't stopped since. Born and raised in Nova Scotia, she spent her high school years volunteering every weekend with rescue dogs, building a hands-on foundation that no classroom can replicate. Over more than 22 years she has worked with the full spectrum: friendly, nervous, aggressive, and even boarded police dogs.
Madi joined the Dogwood Lodge team in February 2025 and has become an absolutely indispensable part of what we do. With a heart of gold and a tireless work ethic, she goes above and beyond for every dog and every family — always the first to help and the last to leave. Her favourite breed is the Black Lab, and if you're an early riser you'll find Madi there greeting you with a smile.
⭐ Early morning shifts
World-renowned and award-winning, Vril brings nearly two decades of expertise to our Dogwood Oasis grooming studio. From First Place at SuperZoo Las Vegas to top honours at Mastergroom Canada, her artistry and skin-first approach are rare at any level — and extraordinary in Yarmouth.
🏆 Award-winning Master Groomer
Julianne brings energy, dedication, and genuine love for dogs to every shift. She's quickly become a favourite among the dogs and their families alike.
Hannah has been with us part-time and as a volunteer since 2025 and has become a truly invaluable part of the Dogwood family. She arrives every single day with a smile, a great attitude, and a genuine readiness to get stuck in. The kind of person who makes the whole team better just by being there.
🌟 Volunteering since 2025
Danika brings warmth and enthusiasm to everything she does. A natural with dogs of all sizes and temperaments, she's become a familiar and trusted face for many of our regulars.
Faith's calm and caring presence is a natural fit for the Dogwood team. She's attentive, dependable, and the kind of person every nervous dog owner feels reassured to see.
Your dog deserves
to be treated like family.
Book a viewing, register your dog, or just give us a call — we'd love to show you around and answer any questions.
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