Ribbon cutting ceremony at the grand opening of the K9 Resort in Wellington. Photo by K9 Resort
It’s no secret that people in Palms West treat their dogs like a part of the family. Now K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel in Wellington offers the ultimate in luxury for day care and overnight stays.
The high-end K9 Resorts is at 3381 Fairlane Farms Road. The first Florida location for the New Jersey-based franchise features 8,000 square feet with of luxury with features that appeal to dog owners like chandeliers, beautiful moldings, spacious rooms and courtyards. An outdoor play space covers an additional 3,000 square feet.
Owners David Blevins, a 25-year hotel industry veteran, and wife Heather, a former Planet Fitness franchise owner who grew up in Wellington, wanted a business in which they could combine their passions for hospitality and dogs. They decided that an industrial park off Pierson Road would be a great location because many pet lovers frequent the area.
Despite some challenges in opening, David says things have gone well with staffing: “We have the same staff that we had two months ago when we opened.”
Having an experienced staff has been important to operations, he says. The friendly, experienced pet handlers are trained and certified to ensure canine guests’ comfort and safety.
The business drew 500 people to its grand opening in October. Business professionals and prospective clients gathered for the ribbon cutting, after which K9 was closed for a deep cleaning in preparation for the first four-legged guests. The owners describe K9 Resorts as the “Ritz-Carlton of doggie day cares.” It offers cage-free boarding and day care with homelike amenities, recreation and facilities that exceed kennel industry standards. The luxury facility promises to give dogs the attention, exercise, socialization and care they deserve. David Blevins aims to provide them the same sort of superior atmosphere he offered over two decades as a hotel manager.
Rooms include sound-resistant glass privacy doors and Kuranda beds that offer orthopedic comfort. Luxury suites are equipped with HDTV systems. The flooring features Microban, a built-in antimicrobial technology that prevents the growth of mildew, mold and bacteria. A PetAirapy UV air purification system and antimicrobial artificial turf also protect pets.
Boarding and day care programs focus on exercise, socialization and the care required in a stimulating and engaging space designed by experts. Half-day and full-day options are available for day care.
K9 Resorts offers special plans and discounts to first responders and members of the military.
