DETROIT LAKES — Dogs have a new place to play and hang out. The Dog-Run Barn, 16335 County Highway 5, Lake Park, is open for daycare and boarding Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Owner Sam Dahlgren added that she lives on the property and therefore offers flexible drop-off and pick-up times for both day and boarding clients.
In order for a dog to enjoy the amenities of the Dog-Run Barn, vaccinations must be up to date.
Barbie Porter/Detroit Lakes Tribune
“I don’t charge extra if they aren’t spayed or neutered,” she said, adding that a dog that isn’t neutered is always kept separate from the opposite sex. “I don’t want any puppies that have an accident under my supervision.”
Dahlgren tries to give the dogs enough time outdoors, both in day care and in boarding.
“I’m outside with them as much as possible,” she said. “If it’s not raining or super hot, I let them run around outside and play.”
For rainy days, the Dog-Run Barn has a large, temperature-controlled indoor play area.
Even dogs who aren’t social with other dogs are welcome at the Dog-Run Barn. Dahlgren said she learned to recognize a dog’s temperament after working at a daycare facility in Fargo, North Dakota. Whether the owner identifies the dog as nonsocial or picks up on the cues, the pup won’t have to deal with social butterflies.
“You can still go out with me and do all the fun things,” she said.
The facility offers three fenced outdoor play areas, and regular visitors can be granted additional privileges with special e-collars if Dahlgren and the puppy’s parents agree.
The Dog-Run Barn officially opened in March and has already added three kennels, bringing the total to 12.
“The response has been better than expected,” she said, adding that she is considering hiring another employee if the number of children at the daycare continues to grow. “It would be nice to be able to take a day off.”
Four of the kennels are larger to accommodate larger breeds. Some kennels can be connected if a family has multiple dogs they want to house together. Pets are provided with windows that let in natural light and a temperature-controlled kennel area. Elevated beds, food, water bowls and blankets are available for dogs, but guests can also bring their own amenities for their four-legged friend.
Barbie Porter/Detroit Lakes Tribune
If a dog needs medication, Dahlgren says she is happy to administer it at no additional cost.
“It’s not a problem, it’s necessary and part of the job,” she said.
The daughter of Brian and Sue Dahlgren grew up on a farm and animals have always been a part of her life. The 2017 graduate of Lake Park-Audubon High School initially began working toward a veterinary technician degree, but changed her career goals after working at a daycare and animal shelter in Fargo. After learning and working in the field, Dahlgren was presented with an opportunity on her grandmother’s farm.
“The farm was founded in 1887,” she said, “so I’m the sixth generation. My fiancé (Treyton Anderson) and I moved in with my grandmother and started this business.”
Barbie Porter/Detroit Lakes Tribune
When the business idea was born, the stable was set up for dairy cows.
“It stood empty for many years,” she said, adding that thanks to hardworking and generous friends and family members, the building has been remodeled and given a new purpose.
Dahlgren encouraged people to give the Dog-Run Barn a chance. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 218-849-7736, email [email protected] or visit their Facebook page, The Dog-Run Barn.
