Family Opens Luxury Dog Boarding Facility

Sometimes an enterprise, an opportunity, presents itself in unexpected ways, including assets on purchased real estate.

Mike and Leasa Dornbier purchased the kind of estate that inspires western novels. The prairie valley is long and sloping to the south and west with the sun gently resting on the distant hills. The almost Kentucky-green yards separate the home from the guest house, accented to the east by a pond and to the west by a 10-kennel outbuilding. The surrounding four acres are as if a fantasy land for children and for dogs.

That is where the concept of a kennel came about. The outbuilding came designed with 10 kennels and an indoor/outdoor exercise facility.

"The facility was so nice, we couldn't let it go to waste," said Mike Dornbier.

He said Sidney needs something closer, and their facility is about five miles away.

"Ruff House" Dog Boarding is a family operation with Zoey and Liam, the Dornbier children, also excited about the adventure.

Ruff House offers an above-average doggy daycare, and boarding.

"What we're going for is kind of a luxury resort" for dogs, Mike said.

Amenities offered for their canine clients include vacation for your pet, an afternoon "Yappy Hour," luxury suites that are heated and air-conditioned with rubber-padded floors, individualized play time and vacation photos. They also make homemade doggie biscuits onsite with puppy-friendly ingredients.

Reservations can be made through their website at https://ruffhouseboarding.com.

All dogs must be at least four months old, have proof of vaccinations and be in good health. The Ruff House insurance carrier restricts the breeds of dog Ruff House can board due to "their violent tendencies and past claim histories involving bites," according to the website. The list of breeds not accepted include Rottweillers, Chows, Pit-bulls, American Stafforshires, American Bulldogs and any hybrids of the above.

"The kids are really excited," Leasa Dornbier said.

Cost to board a dog at Ruff House is $18 for a half-day daycare and $21 for full day, and $35 per day for boarding. Doggy Daycare is available 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Preferred drop-off is 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and preferred pickup is 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Customers are encouraged to bring their dog's food. If dog food is needed, it costs $3 per meal. Medications can be given at no extra charge. However, the medication must come in the original container prescribed by the veterinarian. A customer can request a bath for their dog for an additional $8; free if the dog stays longer than seven nights, or if the dog needs cleaned during their stay.

For more information, call 308-249-9446.