Happy Tails Pet Resort and Camp

02/15/2025

❄️ Winter Wonderland at Happy Tails! ❄️

The snow has arrived in full force, turning Happy Tails into a magical winter paradise! Our furkids are absolutely loving it—zoomies in the fresh powder, playful snowball chases, and cozy snuggles in their warm retreats. ☃️🐶🐱

From our adventurous pups bouncing through the snowy parklands to our regal kitties watching the snowfall from their comfy windowsills, every guest is finding their perfect way to enjoy this winter wonderland. Some are frolicking in the snow, others are bundled up in soft blankets, and a few have claimed their favorite warm spots for an afternoon nap. 🐾❄️🔥

Grab a hot coffee or tea, settle in, and enjoy this big album of our Happy Tails guests embracing the season. Winter fun, cuddles, and heartwarming moments await! 🥰📸

02/15/2025

" Lisa, Thank you very much for taking such great care of Lucky. Also, huge thanks to your entire team for caring for his needs as he recovered from his nail injury. Lucky is clearly tired out from all the fun at his winter camp and all his shenanigans. He is back to his home routine and sleeping well in his bed. To celebrate his 10th birthday, he got a giant bone. Thanks again, Joanna, John and Lucky."

[🐾 Big thanks to Joanna, John, and Lucky for the kind words! Caring for Lucky was a pleasure, even when his Piroette resulted in a split nail injury, which turned into a nail-biting adventure—literally! Thanks to Muskoka Lakes Vet for removing his split nail from the nailbed and their easy-to-follow list of care instructions, he’ll soon return to his Zoomies. Now he’s home, tired, plotting and dreaming of a new move on his giant bone for that 10th birthday party! 🎉🦴 Here’s to more fun... but maybe don't endeavour to do more tippy toe twirls in your zoomies, okay, Lucky? Cheers from Lisa and the Happy Tails crew!]

02/13/2025

Three generations of Happy Tails dogs! 🐶💛

"My family has been bringing our dogs to Lisa for over 20 years. Our first family dog, Bear, joined our family when I was just 4 years old and spent his entire 12 years loving Happy Tails. When Bear was 7, we welcomed Tyson, who happily followed in his footsteps—attending from puppyhood to senior years.

Both Bear and Tyson would be beyond excited to arrive and totally exhausted from all the fun when they came home, spending the next day sound asleep. Now, nearly 22 years after getting our first family dog, my own pup, Augie, is attending Happy Tails for the first time.

I have no doubt she will have just as much fun! Is it fair to say we have three generations of Happy Tails dogs?" — Allison

💛🐾

["I remember Allison as a bright-eyed 4-year-old, tagging along with Bear—and now, here she is with Augie for her Getaway Stay at the Resort. Allison has grown into an amazing young woman, a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and a devoted dog owner. It’s so special to welcome the next generation of her family to Happy Tails! Thank you." — Lisa & the Happy Tails team]

02/12/2025

Off to Warmer Climates? Let Us Take Care of Your Pet’s Winter Getaway!

We see you. Checking flight prices, daydreaming about tropical drinks, imagining that first hit of the sun's rays on your winter skin. If you’re lucky enough to be trading snow boots for sandals and heading somewhere hot, we are so happy for you. Truly. No jealousy at all. None whatsoever. We see you, and we get it.

But while you’re basking in the sun and ocean breeze, your pup deserves a little vacation of their own, right? And as you know, we’ve got just the spot.

Winter at Happy Tails is a dream for the dogs. Fresh snow to zoom through, crisp air to sniff, endless playtime with their friends, and when they finally tire out, they wander inside, shake off the snow, and collapse onto a cozy bed by the fireplace. You should see their little faces, pure, happy, and completely pooped. It’s what we like to call the cottage dog lifestyle, where they get all the adventure of the great outdoors and all the comforts of home. With our cage-free indoor and outdoor access, they get to choose how much snow frolicking they’re up for, knowing they can always come inside to warm up, stretch out, and recharge before heading back out for round two.

And for our feline guests? The kitties who stay in our cozy Kitty Suites have it made. Tucked away in their own quiet space, safe from the cold, they spend their days lounging in sunny window spots, watching birds outside, and getting spoiled with chin scratches and playtime, on their terms, of course. Some are social butterflies, greeting us with head bumps and making biscuits in their beds, while others embrace full spa retreat mode, curling up in a warm, private nook for some serious cat naps. No matter their style, every kitty gets the peaceful, pampered getaway they deserve while their humans are off adventuring.

So go ahead, book that trip, embrace your inner beach bum, and know that while you’re soaking up the sun, your pet is here living their best life too.

Safe travels and happy tails!

02/08/2025

Toby had the BEST play day today! 🐾✨ Like all our Happy Tails guests, he made the most of our huge, fully fenced parklands, soaking up the fresh air, running free, and playing to his heart’s content. 💨🐕 Now, he’s heading home happy, fulfilled, and—of course—dog tired! 😴

We’re so lucky to have the happiest, most adventurous fur kids join us for Resort Stays and Playdays, where they get to live their best Cottage Dog Lifestyle. 🌿🏕️🐾

02/06/2025

🐶 Loving Dogs Means Doing Right by Them 🎓

Meet Big W***y, one of the top-winning Basset Hounds with limited showing. He is owned by a Vet Tech and hard-working Animal Control Officer and Rescue Operator—a woman whose rescue is overwhelmed with abandoned dogs and unwanted puppies—like all our rescues in Canada. I encourage and support her, but she is one person. We are 40 million Canadians.

There's a lesson here.

Rescue alone won't fix the problem—but education and services might. Responsible breeding isn't about producing pets; it's about proving a dog is worthy of its breed through respect for breed purposefulness, health, temperament, and structure. Breeding dogs should be about preservation, not profit.

Today, I spoke with a man who wanted to breed his six-year-old Golden Retriever because he loves her and wants to make money from her litter. I hope I dissuaded and educated him. He had already found a stud dog owner who asked for a stud fee and a brucellosis test—but that is not an ethical breeder. Responsible breeders do far more—comprehensive health testing, temperament evaluation, and breeding to improve the breed, not just to produce pets for resale.

I told him, "Stop. If you truly love your dog and her breed, return to her breeder for guidance. A responsible breeder wouldn't hand over breeding rights without a plan. If they don't care. Find a reputable breeder who cares and provides you education and guidance. There are no homes for dogs right now. Be an educated pet owner, not a breeder of your pet dog.🐾 Good breeders are responsible for their dogs' progeny—not just for a litter, but for the litter's lifetime, and not just that litter but its generations. Is that you?"

🚫 If you have a pet dog, even if it's CKC registered or a so-called XYZ designer dog—STOP. Don't breed your dog. Accidental or irresponsible pet breeding only adds to the problem. Become an educated pet owner and learn to do right by your dog and the breed you love.

Let's help homeless Canadian dogs by building up funding for genuine animal welfare—spaying, neutering, vaccinating, and educating. That will reduce the volume of recycled rescues and dogs in need. It is the root level of need.

📚 The problem isn't solved by more laws or hate judgment but by accessible services and education at a community level. Let's ensure people become better educated in dog ownership and make veterinary care accessible for those who are isolated socially, locationally, or financially. This will reduce the volume of accidental or irresponsible breeding and the cycle of rescue dogs. It will also increase the number of homes that will keep their dogs for their entire lives.

💡 If you love dogs, let's do more. Let's fund education, provide vet care, and make responsible pet ownership possible for everyone.

Ask me about a new not-for-profit charity that will make a difference. It is currently vetting new board directors and partners. It isn't based on rescue or animal rights ideology but on building animal welfare resources to help at the community level. It is time to work together and help one another.

02/05/2025

☀️ Another Day in the Life at Happy Tails! 🐾

While so many folks are escaping the winter chill, their dogs live their best Playcation in Muskoka! 🌲🐕💦 With endless room to roam, play, and explore, every day feels like an adventure at our cottage-style Muskoka retreat for well-loved Furkids.

Because vacations aren’t just for humans—dogs deserve them too! 🐶💛

📸 Swipe to see some of today’s happiest campers!

02/05/2025

"We brought our 9-month-old Aussie, Oakley, to Happy Tails for a play day as an initial visit before he does a week-long stay. He had a great time. He found friends who love the snow as much as he does. Lisa showed us pictures of all his adventures that day. When we picked him up at the end of the day while sitting and talking with Lisa, he jumped up and sat with her on the couch. He was obviously very comfortable with her and Happy Tails. We are very happy with our decision to book a week-long stay for Oakley while we are away, and we are looking forward to seeing pictures of him in the snow while we are on the sand." Dave & Jill G.

🌟 Thank you, Dave & Jill, for sharing kind words about Oakley's first play day at Happy Tails! We're thrilled he had a blast in the snow and made new friends. Seeing how well he fit it and how comfortable he was to sneak in couch time with me was heartwarming! 🐾❄️ We can’t wait to welcome him back for his week-long stay and share snowy adventure updates while you're on the sand. Lisa and the team at Happy Tails 🌞🏖️

02/04/2025

WOW! Woodland Raw Pet Food from the northern country offers excellent prices! Michelle will be coming down to the Kearney Dog Show! Text 705-967-1432 to get your dogs some bags for your freezer! Support the rural farmers and small Canadian businesses... Look at the cost per 40-pound bag!

02/03/2025

Something to do this weekend, folks! Great people, great community!

02/03/2025

First-time clients wrote: "We had an excellent experience with Happy Tails and would highly recommend them to care for your fur babies. Our Jack-Slack (Pug/Frenchie X) came home happily exhausted, and I'm sure he already misses all the friends he made at Happy Tails." Shaun & Heather S.

[🐾 Thank You, Shaun & Heather! 🐾 We're so happy to hear your feedback and know that Jack had a great time on his FIRST-ever 12-day stay at Happy Tails! Nothing makes us smile more than seeing our guests go home happy, dog-tired, and with great positive memories. We can't wait to welcome him back for more adventures with his friends! 💕🐶 Lisa and the team at Happy Tails]

02/03/2025

🐕 Celebrating Canada's Northern Heritage: Welcoming Back Our Inuit Dog Guests! ❄️🏔️

In just two weeks, Happy Tails is thrilled to welcome back Bailey, one of the remarkable Nunavut or NWT northern dogs who visit our resort when their owners, often dedicated teachers and social workers from Nunavut and the Northwest Territories, travel south. 🌎🐾

As a lifelong admirer of working dog breeds, especially the resilient northern sled breeds, I am continually fascinated by their profound history and indispensable role in Arctic life. Recent genetic studies suggest that the partnership between humans and sled dogs in Arctic regions may date back over 20,000 years, highlighting a profound and enduring relationship pivotal for survival and culture in some of the planet's most challenging environments.
THECANADIANENCYCLOPEDIA.CA

This enduring bond between the Inuit and their sled dogs exemplifies a living heritage, showcasing a partnership that has endured for millennia. Sled dogs are living museums and treasures, embodying a legacy of mutual respect and reliance.

In recognition of this profound connection, the Canadian government has acknowledged past actions that adversely affected Inuit communities and their sled dogs. In November 2024, an official apology was issued to the Inuit of northern Quebec for the mass killing of sled dogs during the 1950s and 1960s, accompanied by a compensation promise of C$45 million.
REUTERS.COM

This acknowledgment highlights the importance of preserving and honouring the legacy of the Inuit sled dogs and their indispensable role in the cultural fabric of the Arctic.

As Canadian dog lovers, it's essential to appreciate the diversity and history of all purposeful dog breeds and relationships. Genuine animal welfare encompasses preservation and inspires us to educate ourselves beyond judgment, fostering respect for one another and our unique canine companions. Canada must preserve its rich heritage and share our outdoor lifestyles within our country and the world.

📽️ Discover more about Canadian history, this incredible bond, and the skills that have enabled the Inuit people and their dogs to thrive in the North. This short video delves into how they navigate challenges, including encounters with polar bears. 👇

🔗 Watch Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMhlfNSRChY

🐾 Hashtags: ://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMhlfNSRChY

In this video, we explore the clever ways the Inuit protect themselves from polar bears in the Arctic. From innovative fencing to sound signals and community...

02/02/2025

🇨🇦 Have You Tried making Canadian Homemade Jerky Sticks for Your Dog? 🐾

✨ Ingredients:
🥩 1 lb ground red meat (beef, lamb, pork, venison, moose, etc.)
🥬 ½ cup finely chopped spinach or kale
🥕 ¼ cup grated carrots
🌾 ¼ cup rolled oats (blended into flour)
🌿 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
🥚 1 egg

Let’s keep our footprint small and source locally! I support buying grass-fed, free-range meat directly from Canadian farmers who use sustainable soil practices and government-licensed processors. They personally deliver to my freezer—no plastic, no styrofoam, just quality!

Many Canadians are sustainable hunters & gardeners, providing for their families, friends & four-legged companions. This nutritious, preservative-free jerky recipe embraces that mindset!

🔹 No supplements needed—unless your vet suggests a dog-safe addition.

🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat oven to 170°F (lowest setting).
2️⃣ Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
3️⃣ Shape into 4-5 inch sticks for even drying.
4️⃣ Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5️⃣ Bake 4-5 hours until firm, flipping halfway.
6️⃣ Cool completely before serving.

📦 Storage:
🧊 Fridge: 1 week
❄️ Freeze: 1 month

🐶 Why Dogs Love These Jerky Sticks:
✔️ No chemicals, no preservatives—just real food!
✔️ High-quality protein for strong muscles.
✔️ Spinach & carrots add vitamins, fibre & antioxidants.
✔️ Flaxseed = omega-3s for healthy skin & coat.
✔️ Chewy texture helps clean teeth.
✔️ Perfect for training or everyday treats!

🔢 Calories per stick: ~50-75, depending on size.

Supporting local farmers & sustainable living means better food for our pets & a stronger Canada. Let’s do what’s right—starting in our own communities. 🇨🇦 ❤️

🇨🇦

02/01/2025

🌨️ Weekly Photo Album – Winter Edition at Happy Tails! 🐾

The powder is deep, the snow is fresh, and the dogs are loving every second of it! ❄️🏔️ Our Happy Tails guests have been zooming through the fluffy drifts, making snow angels (dog-style!), and enjoying the ultimate winter playground.

From frosty trail adventures to cozy fireside snuggles, this week has been all about embracing the beauty of winter in Muskoka. Whether it's big dogs bounding through the snowbanks or our small pups enjoying their own frosty fun, every guest is living their best Cottage Dog Lifestyle!

Swipe through to see this week's highlights and let us know—does your pup love the snow as much as we do? 🐕❄️💙

02/01/2025

"Well, we are thrilled to have our S**a back home. But we know she just LOVES her play dates at Happy Tails. She comes home tuckered out and happy but wagging her tail all the way out to the car. Then sleeps all the way home. When she gets home, she greets her kids and kitty friend and then gets extra cozy on the couch beside me. We are thrilled to have found you Happy Tails! And love that our S**a has also fallen in love. Thanks again for all your hard work and dedication to the pets that stay and who call Happy Tails their home away from home."The Bohm Family

[We thank the Bohm Family loads! ❤️ It means the world to us knowing S**a loves her time at Happy Tails and returns home happy and fulfilled. We adore having her as part of our pack! 🐾 See you all again soon! 🐶✨ Lisa and the Team at Happy Tails...

AND PS...We thoroughly enjoyed a share of your catch of Perch and Pickerel at our Friday dinner tonight! Yum! Yum! My International helpers were thrilled!]

01/31/2025

"Thanks for having our Aussie girls and for sharing the behind-the-scenes. We enjoyed seeing the dogs playing in the dog park from the upstairs. You have a beautiful resort. It was fun for us, and I can say for sure they had fun! We had a couple of tired girls when they got home." Thanks again, Jim & Diane

[Thank you, Jim & Diane! 🐾💛 We loved having your girls here and are glad you enjoyed the behind-the-scenes peek! Nothing better than happy, tired pups after a fun stay. Hope to see you all again soon! 🐶✨ Lisa and the team at Happy Tails]

"

01/28/2025

Oh man ;). I am forever posting things to myself on my page, and every so often, 'I think' it is going on my personal page feed, and I accidentally post it on my business page... Dawh...me bad... ;)