HARMONY FARM KENNEL & LAMB
4319 Paxton Valley Rd, Monte Lake, BC V0E 2N0

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Separation Anxiety at the Dog Kennel: How to minimize it for you and your dog


All sizes, ages, breeds, and doganalities of dogs boarding at Harmony Farm Kennel near Kamloops BC enjoy a stress-free, interesting country vacation with lots to keep their noses busy and minds fascinated. Some owners, however, have considerable separation anxiety leaving their pets behind! During these strange and strained covid days I understand that both dogs and their owners are spending a lot more time together as many owners are working at home, some children are not attending school regularly, and families are not traveling as per the province's travel restrictions.

So ...when a time arises that the family pooch needs to spend time at Harmony Farm Kennel, some owners are understandably anxious (and maybe even lonesome) without their pets by their side - just a bit more than usual. "Don't worry-be happy!" say your dogs! Actually, the majority of dogs are quite alright with a change of surroundings as long as they are safe, comfortable, and exercised. Even the dogs that seem to be upset upon leaving the side of their owners generally become super excited once they have entered the kennel area (sometimes even the front door!)

When you drop off your dog and their belongings at Harmony Farm, my normal routine is to allow your dog to settle in their individual kennel, (which usually takes about the time it takes you to drive out of my gate.) Then I will take them for a walkabout. Before they are even out of the door your dog has generally taken smell and sight of all kinds of points of doggy interest!

Please note, that I am very sensitive to your dog's needs happily providing that extra 'good dog' stroke and reassurance - and, even better, countrified exercise - to stay entertained and satisfied! There is always lots of 'farm news' to watch from their private yards and daily hikes throughout the farmlands and forests to keep dogs mentally and emotionally content while being safely exercised.

Here are three points I recommend that will help with any anticipated anxiety issues in your dog:

1) If it's your dog's first time away from home, be sure to arrange a pre-stay 'meet and greet' (preferably 2 weeks before the planned longer kennel stay). This is an opportunity for your dog to exercise their senses to smell, hear and feel the peaceful energy of the workings of Harmony Farm. They are happy to have a sniff around and even mark some spots to come back to later.

This is also a time for a quiet introduction and interaction with myself so that when they do come to stay it is an easy, comfortable, 'old home' return for your dogs.

2) I can not stress enough, how important it is to bring along something that smells like you, for your dog to relate to, hold close, and covet while apart from you. Just like burying a treasured bone, often a dog will bury your item under their bed for safekeeping or lay on it while sunning on their patio. Having a part of you close always makes for less separation anxiety for your pooch.

3) Equally important for your easy transition is 'quick good-byes and long hellos'! Make it easy on everyone (me included) to just casually say something like 'see ya later' when you leave them. Please don't make a big deal of leaving your dog at the kennel. When you're ok, they will be ok also. Having said that, it is awesome to allow a really big deal to celebrate your reunion once you return to pick up your loving companion!

As for your own possible worry about leaving your family 'at camp' at Harmony Farm Kennel, here are a few ways you can help yourself make the transition smooth and stress-free:

1) Early preparation of your dog's regular bed (not washed is best),regular food, treats, and going away pack will help you mentally get organized to be apart from your dog. Avoid last-minute gathering as you'll feel awful if you forget something, likely you'll be rushed and will pass on your own anxiety not being mentally ready for leaving your dog behind.

2) Visualize your love for your dog and send them energetic messages that all is excellent in both your worlds. This might sound silly but everything is energy and dogs are very ‘tuned in’. I know for a fact, this helps both you and your pets.

3) Often I will let you know how your dog is doing either by text or email but in case you worry. Don't hesitate to text, email, or call me to check in! I don't mind any time - really!

Overall, be rest assured that while you have to be apart from your dogs they will receive 'customized' care, keeping their individual safety, health, comfort, mental balance, physical desires, and needs first and foremost, making Harmony Farm Kennel, "a nice place to stay, while you're away".

Click to learn more about reservations and rates at our Kamloops dog boarding kennel, or read more of the Dog Tales blog by Patricia!

Our Service

  • Accommodating every dog with comfortable XL private heated kennels complete with view windows
  • Providing each dog a private covered play yard with wooden lounge decks and solid privacy dividers
  • Feeding your dog's own food, supplement or raw diet and fresh water 24/7
  • Exercising each dog individually 2-3x daily on or off leash with countrified hikes to suite
  • Giving any meds required (tablets, ointments, bandages, vaccinations, protective cone)
  • Using your provided harness, blanket, snood, or 'thunder shirt'
  • Spending extra time throwing a ball, frisbee or your dog's favorite toy!
  • Providing soft music, a night light and a bedtime treat
  • Giving a stimulating brush and lots of extra hugs!
All Dogs Welcome
All Dogs Welcome!

Individual On/Off Leash Exercise Daily

'Custom Care', Low Stress/Low Risk Dog Boarding
XL Private Heated Kennels, Huge View Windows
Safe, Private Play Yards
Raw, Special Diets Or Meds AOK
Peaceful Country Setting With "Good Dog Zen"
Flexible Drop Off & Pick Up Times

  • "Sooooo grateful to Patricia & Gerry for their phenomenal, knowledgeable, dedicated dog care e.v.e.r.y. s.i.n.g.l.e. time. Always hard to be separated from Grizz but she returns from each stay happy, light-footed and balanced to the max! ... And Harmony Farm Lamb must be tasted to be believed. These beautiful sheep are raised with attention to detail and care for the individual and the flock, and by hard-working farmers who care from the heart about what they are doing and why and how they are doing it. Huge respect and cheers for Harmony Farm! Pat Curry April 19, 2016
    Pat Curry
    Huge Respect & Cheers!

    ~ Pat Curry

  • Thanks again for all your time and thoughtful kindness towards our dogs, always appreciated. Thank you so much for all the above and beyond - for everything you two do. You are amazing, kind, hard working individuals and our dogs always come home with a smile on their faces! Lovely to never have to worry about anything which is truly such a blessing. Take care of your selves and see you in the future. - Hugs & Cheers Kari,Morgan, Alamo, Zoe
    Kari Kendrick
    Us & Our Dogs Think You're Amazing

    ~ Kari Kendrick

  • Maluk is back home with us and we think that he misses you guys! Happy to be home but kind of sad also:(( We can't thank you enough for the care and love you gave Maluk for the three weeks plus that he spent with with you and his blood sugar level has never been so low than this morning. So worried when we left but so glad to see the pics where he looked so relaxed with Gerry!!! Harmony Farm is now his home away from home. Again thank you and we will stay in touch!!' MJ & JP Chave
    JP & Marie Jo Chave
    Very Thankful & Relieved!

    ~ JP & Marie Jo Chave

  • I wanted to thank Patricia and Gerry for ALL of the times they have looked after my brood, my dogs love it with them and I know they are safe and well cared for. I have recommended this kennel to all of my doggie clients and will continue to do so..the ABSOLUTE best in Kamloops!
    Chris McKay
    Thankful...

    ~ Chris McKay

  • Patricia & Gerry do you have any idea how rare a kennel and dog boarding service you are providing? Believe me I have been to them all and there is nothing that compares! My dogs love you guys because from the first moment you met, it was obvious that you really love and care about dogs! The kennel smells great, it's bright and clean and the dogs are all really happy! Wow I've never seen anything like it! Your property really does have peaceful energy about it - gosh I couldn't even hear any barking! Best of all, my dogs are healthy and sane when they settle back home...just can't applaud you enough! Thank You for sharing YOU with my dog family!
    Cici Lowden
    You ARE the BEST Kennel Anywhere!

    ~ Cici Lowden

  • Thank you so much Patricia & Gerry for taking such good care of Duke for so long while I got my life together and moved and got settled... I wanted the very best possible care for my pitty puppy Duke and you have an awesome place but it took a lot longer than I expected and Duke isn't the easiest to handle. Your photos, regular emails and your endless patience and understanding made it all possible. Duke is so happy and healthy and well behaved, I know you did way more than just a great job. I can't tell you how much we appreciate your loving care of our baby. Quotes
    Jessica Lynn Pilon
    No words for appreciation...

    ~ Jessica Lynn Pilon

  • Wow - I can not tell you how impressed I am with your incomparable kennel service! My Rotti Chelsey had become very depressed and destructive in response to much family sadness recently - so much that I was feeling very guilty to have to take her to a kennel. When I picked her up, I couldn't have been more relieved and happy to see her back to her bouncing, tail waggin content and joyful self after only a few days with you at your beautiful, PEACEFUL farm - I am so happy to have found you - we look forward to bringing our Chelsey back soon! Meantime, we shall tell the world and next time, I wonder if I can come too?!
    The Spark Family
    Relieved Harmony Farm Kennel Fan!

    ~ The Spark Family

  • Wow, what a beautiful space and what an amazing service you and Gerry provide. I can see that my dog just loves you guys and why she cried when we left your place (first time ever leaving anywhere fyi) and I understand - she'll be back soon!
    Sharon Midge & Family
    So very happy to know your kennel!

    ~ Sharon Midge & Family

  • Thank you so much for your email...wow, what a treat to read all that goodness. My mind is totally at rest after reading your email, so much I forgot to reply until now! I even read it aloud at our Christmas dinner!!! I can tell that you are giving her a lot of love and our whole family really appreciates that. Our love to all the pooches out there and you both as well! The Petches
    Christa Petch
    So relaxed with your care!

    ~ Christa Petch

  • Thank you so much for taking such good care of Titus ... he's working off his 'all-inclusive holiday' along with Bruce now in the deep snow... Titus will be back! :) It is such a piece of mind to know he is with someone who understands the breed over and above great care. Hugs, Stacey
    Bruce & Stacey Phinnemore
    Very happy 'return' customer

    ~ Bruce & Stacey Phinnemore

  • Harmony farm is an amazing place for every living thing. People, Sheep, Dogs, horses, everybody is enjoying and contributing to a very peaceful and positive atmosphere. By their understanding and sensitivity of others, Gerry and Patricia offer a very nice place to stay to every creature on earth.
    Anne & Mael
    Such a great place to stay!

    ~ Anna & Mael

  • I can barely express our gratitude to have found your custom care kennel service - finally we can leave our 'family' dog Sasha knowing she is well cared for, safe, exercised and always happy! Gosh - we know she has a vacation as well and for the first time ever, we don't even worry! Your communication is always timely and keeps us feeling so very grateful - thank you so much.
    Cindy and Bill Straton
    Very Grateful Clients

    ~ Cindy and Bill Straton

  • It is so refreshing to pick up our dog and he is settled, happy, content, healthy and SANE! We used to bring him home from a kennel and he was a basket case neurotic for a week! Usually he had scratches or diarrhea and it was just nuts around our house until we 'got our dog back'. Your kennel is a breathe of fresh air, for us and our dog, both during his stay and once he returns home. Thank you.
    The Cadre Family
    Delighted Customer

    ~ The Cadre Family

  • Great blog posts. Really thank you! Want more.
    Sookea
    I value the your writing.Thanks Again. Will read on...

    ~ Sookea

  • I thank you both again for taking such excellent care of Alamo and and Zoe while we were away, it is such a relief to know that we have a reliable, safe, and friendly environment to leave our dogs when we go away on holidays. We can not thank you both enough, and Alamo and Zoe say thanks too, they transitioned well when they got home. Also thanks for making room for them one more night on last minute notice, very much appreciated. By all means you may use our comments on your website, you've worked hard for what you two have accomplished and we are comforted to know our dogs can call your place a home away from home when we are on holidays. I cannot thank you enough.
    Kari Kendrick
    Can't Thank You Enough

    ~ Kari Kendrick

  • Patricia and Gerry, I have to admit that I was a bit surpised after Lucy and Tess's stay with you... They were happy to see me but really THEY DIDN'T ACT EXCITED TO COME HOME! Thank you for taking such great care of them. Receiving emails about their stay with you while we were away was so reassuring to know that they were in good hands it helped to make our vacation a stress free one. Charles, Marci, Jacob and Emma
    Charles Hurtubise
    So Happy with our Dog's Holiday

    ~ Charles Hurtubise

  • I just wanted to say Thank-you again for the update email and for the exceptional care and time you gave to our dogs Zoe and Alamo, you were great! Their smiles said it all, I wish you, your husband and your farm all the best of blessings in the year ahead. See you again in August if not sooner . Thanks again, 
    Kari Kendrick
    Happy Dogs!

    ~ Kari Kendrick

  • Harmony Farm Kennel is what I believe all kennels should be! Finally, I have found you! What a breathe of fresh air to be able to entrust my great dogs with someone who is willing to go the extra mile without even hesitating. I appreciate you very much!
    Guy Weatherspoon
    5 Stars For Your Kennel!

    ~ Guy Witherspoon

  • Okay Patricia our mastiff Harley obviously loves you and Gerry and loves his time at Harmony Farm! He wags like crazy on the way there, can't wait to get out of the car, he greets you with a smile, drags us into the kennel, and apparently has a great time while he is there... BUT what do I do about this?...he whines and cries and has this horrible sad forelorn look on his face when he has to leave! He stares at you while we leave and looks out the back window crying all the way home. Knowing Harley I don't think there could be a higher compliment! Thanks for the problem - he'll see you again soon!
    Cam & Ally Lewis
    Love this problem!

    ~ Cam & Ally Louis

  • Thanks for posting those beautiful fotos of my Ben, thanks for taking them, and for taking HIM, in the first place! You are both talented in a rare fashion, that of understanding, and of having compassion for the misunderstood. Such a relief to know you have the patience, knowledge and trust, even for troubled dogs.
    Jan Peter
    Very relieved & thankful customer

    ~ Jan Peter

  • Good to here my old girl Sally is doing so good... I think all the attention at your place is probably helping lift her spirits:) She was so depressed, wasn't eating, she gets so lonely at my farm... Thanks so much for providing such a lovely healthy caring home away from home for my baby...I don't worry for her one minute.
    Trena Porter
    Thanks so much

    ~ Trena Porter

  • Hi Patricia. I just dropped off Yukon at Harmony and as you saw, he was very excited to have another vacation with Harmony. At the turn off he wiggled like crazy and was so alert he couldn't wait to get there! We are so pleased that after his visits he is so very relaxed and content when he returns home - no adjustment period at all - a very good sign that he enjoys his time at Harmony and that makes me feel very good! Thanks so much!!!!
    Kathy Mueller
    Happy that I have a Happy Dog!

    ~ Kathy Mueller

  • Thank you so much Patricia!! Even if we ever move back to town our Luna & Diesel will be coming to stay with you guys! I know they are in good loving hands! Thank you!!!
    Maike Mayden
    Thankful Dog Lover

    ~ Maike Mayden

  • Thanks so much for all you do! We are so grateful we found your farm! We also agree that your lamb is the best we've ever tasted and so appreciate that it is chemical free. Happy holidays!!
    Katarina Vuckovic

    ~ Katarina Vuckovic

  • Thank you so much for the email update, just read it now, but we so much appreciate how well you look after our precious girl Ricki!!! We apologize again for picking her up so late and thank you for accommodating our late and delayed flight and arrival into Kelowna. You have such a winning combination at your beautiful property with the sheep, horses and kennels, we feel so lucky to have found such a wonderful home for her when we go away. Thanks again for looking after her so well and we will see you again to drop her off for a couple of weeks in mid January. Thanks! Janet and Terry
    Janet & Terry Maskell

    ~ Janet & Terry Maskell

  • I am so grateful to have found your kennel. My dogs are happy with you, I don't worry at all (especially with your communications) and they take no time to settle back with us at home, which is the first time ever. Your obvious love for animals (sheep included to my amazement!) is more than impressive. I wish you every success!
    B. Grathmore
    Ever Grateful

    ~ B. Grathmore

  • Thank you so much for caring for Princess. She is not easy and I am so glad it went well. I look forward to doing business with you in the future and will be sure to recommend you to everyone I know!! Thank you, Judy
    Judy Bergman
    Very happy and relieved dog 'Mom'

    ~ Judy Bergman

  • I appreciate so much knowing that my dogs will be safe and happy when I am away on my vacation. I am very impressed with the quality of care and love given the dogs and it is obvious they are very pleased as well. This is an awesome place!
    Genevieve Stroulger

    ~ Genevieve Strougler

  • We spent a lot of time looking for a kennel for our two Thai Ridgebacks, Suki and Loabas. They are wonderful dogs but not easily to get introduced to other packs. Gerry and Particia received them with open arms however. The most important for us is that you both love the dogs in a mature and knowledgeable way and that you have the psychological and medical expertise to care for them. We also appreciated the emails and phone calls to report our dogs well being :) Thank you so much again!
    Peter and Kitaya Termote
    The place we trust

    ~ Peter and Kitaya Termote

  • Thank you for the update, I had a good feeling our little Scrappy was doing well. I was relaxed about his stay knowing he won't get into trouble with other dogs and, after we left the ranch we realized your place is awesome! Thanks again,
    Heather Smith
    Very Satisfied

    ~ Heather Smith

  • Thanks for the photos, Patricia. I know you and Gerry are taking good care of our sweet Katie because she looks very happy. Its been so long and we miss her alot, but never worry because we know she's in good hands. It's such a relief. Thank you! You are the best! Thank you.
    Keith & Laurel Harris, Australia
    Thankful Customers

    ~ Keith & Laurel Harris

  • "I am so glad I found you! When I brought my old lab Zues there he could barely walk and wasn't eating well at all. Your reassuring email to me while in Germany was a great relief. To my delight when I picked Zues up I could see the relaxation in his face, he was eating great and he was managing his hips walking so much better I could hardly believe it. Obvious testimony to the wonderful care and dedication you pour into your work - now I can go away in June and know he is in very capable and loving hands. Thank you so much."
    Sue Gray
    Very satifsfied customer!

    ~ Sue Gray

  • With 2 day's notice I had to go overseas to attend to my ill mother. Fortunately Patricia and Gerry could accommodate the dates. I cautiously left my 15 year old Lab X with poor hind quarters and a support brace to be walked and also being a very picky eater, at their kennel. On picking him up his condition was better than when I had left him there and appetite spot on! Thanks to the wonderful care he received he is rescheduled for another stay this coming summer! What a tremendous relief that I have found Harmony Farm Kennel!!!
    Sue Gray
    Very satisfied client

    ~ Sue Gray

  • We just got back from a spring vacation and we were so happy to see our beautiful boy relaxed and content at your place. To our relief he was clean and happy! When we got home he was totally himself and had lots of energy after having had his own vacation with you guys. He loves all the goings on at your place, especially the hikes and the sheep!
    Makenzie and Amanda
    beach kids

    ~ Makenzie and Amanda

  • "What you guys offer, this beautiful place, the energy here, your communication - wow, nothing even compares. Our dogs can't wait to come back and my wife is so happy, I personally, won't be stressed on our time off! Thank you!"
    David Sardan
    Dedicated Customer

    ~ David Sardan

  • "Thankyou so much for the update, it truly brightened my day! I am so happy that our rotti girl is doing well and in such great hands, it makes it easier to leave her knowing that she has the greatest care :) Thankyou so much for keeping her safe and happy and all of the extra you give, it means a lot!!"
    The Hayes Family
    Customer

    ~ The Hayes Family

  • "Thank you so much for the updates. It is so nice to know that Tahnee is doing well. We are very lucky to have someone like you looking after her and it makes all the difference to how we enjoy our time away from her without worry."
    Don & Cathy Starr
    Grateful Customer

    ~ Don & Cathy Starr

  • "We want to bring our Cupcake & Candy back - they are always so happy there! They've never been healthy and happy after being in a kennel before - thank you for taking such good care of our girls any time we are away!"
    Kris & Chrissie Benedict
    Happy Customer

    ~ Kris & Chrisse Benedict

  • "Thanks for the updates Patricia, I am so worried about my 'kids' but I felt very comfortable around you and Gerry... so I know they'll be fine. ""Just wanted to thank you again for looking after Kinja and Shakari. They seem their happy selves and just business as usual, no upsets or resentments for being abandoned :) by me".
    Sherre & Mark Lapointe
    Customer

    ~ Sherre & Mark Lapointe

  • "Thanks again for letting Maggie extend her vacation without being able to give you any notice. It's such a peaceful feeling knowing Maggie is being cared for and loved just like she is at home while we are away."
    Patricia Naggy
    Happy Customer

    ~ Patricia Naggy

  • "Patricia and her husband, Gerry (pronounced with a hard G) have considerable sighthound experience and are wonderful with both sighthounds and the many horses they board and train. I've never been to such a calm kennel and lovely, safe boarding facility!"
    Hellen Vincent
    Customer

    ~ Hellen Vincent

  • Our Chai loves it there! She starts wagging her tail as soon as we turn up your drive - the only concern I have is that she won't want to come home! Thank You for making it easy to leave her behind!"
    Janice Jacks
    Customer

    ~ Janice Jacks

  • "I am totally relaxed leaving Monty here - what you offer makes all the difference between worry and actually enjoying our vacation without a worry in the world! Thank You!"
    Michelene Shroeder
    Customer

    ~ Michelene Shroeder

  • Thanks for your quick reply. Sophie loves your wonderful place and we can go on holidays and not need to worry. Worth every penny and more! 

    Charles Petit

    ~ Charles & Terry Petit

  • "Thank you both so much - our little Elmo just loves coming there. We so appreciate who you are and what all you do. The peace of mind in invaluable"
    Carol Martin
    Customer

    ~ Carol Martin

  • "This place - you guys, you just have "good dog zen" so glad to have found you!"
    Michelle Luttmerding
    Customer

    ~ Michelle Luttmerding

  • Thank you for always knowing how to care for Lincoln. He is precious to us and we feel good about leaving him at Harmony Farm- we relax knowing he is safe and happy.

    Colleen & Andrew Baker

    ~ Colleen & Andrew Baker

  • Thanks for the great communication. We love that our pups are comfortable and well taken care of at your place ... kind of like a mini vacation for them . :) They'll be back soon.

    Peter Oyer

    ~ Peter Oyer

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HARMONY FARM KENNEL & LAMB

4319 Paxton Valley Road, PO Box 82,
Monte Lake, BC V0E 2N0

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