Just What Your Dog Has Been Begging For!
The Doggie Spot, a modern concept in day care for dogs that offers both day care and boarding options, is now open in Southwest Gainesville. Owner Amy Beth Tillman Parker, who holds a degree in Animal Training and Management, thought the idea would go over well in a pet-friendly town such as Gainesville.
“We are very excited to open a business like this in Gainesville. It is a lot like day care for kids, except they walk on four feet and bark,” Amy Beth said. “Dogs do not stay in a crate during the day. They have plenty of time to exercise and socialize with other dogs.” Dogs enrolled in The Doggie Spot day care are guaranteed over 8 hours of free play, fun activities, snack and nap time as well. Overnight boarders also get to go to day care.
Pet owners and their dogs can also enjoy the convenience of onsite basic doggie hygiene services, including dog bathing, nail clipping, ear cleaning and brushing. Professional grooming is available every Wednesday. The Doggie Spot’s brand new facilities are located in the same building as the emergency vet clinic and include more than 2,500 square feet of indoor play area. This provides comfort for pets during Florida’s hot weather. Nearly half an acre of outdoor space is available to stretch those doggie legs.
A graduate of P.K. Yonge, Amy Beth grew up in the Gainesville area and has always loved animals; including the horses, cats, dogs, cows and pigs she cared for while living on a farm. Her degree in Animal Training and Management from the elite Moorpark College in California is advantageous in starting this type of business. “The program teaches you how to communicate with animals. I have a better understanding of how they act and why they do what they do.” Amy Beth also holds a degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from the University of Florida.
After Moorpark, Amy Beth spent a year working with dolphins in the Caribbean before moving to Orlando where she used day care facilities for her own pets. After seeing the merits of such facilities she thought it would be a great idea to start a day care business for dogs in Gainesville.
Amy Beth is married to Cam Parker, a PE teacher at the Millhopper Montessori School. They live in Jonesville with their three dogs: Peppers, Sascha and Gracie. The pet loving family also has two cats, a gecko and four fish tanks.
Your dog will love spending time at The Doggie Spot and you will love the benefits. Doggie day care is an excellent way for an energetic dog to release that pent-up energy, leaving you with a calmer, happier and healthier pet. The Doggie Spot also offers birthday parties and social groups for dogs and their owners. Saturday day care is available for home Gator football games and special requests.