The Story Behind Bradenton DogStars
... possibly the oldest continuously operating kennel in Florida!
According to Bradenton lore, the kennel we call DogStars has been in existence for about 65 years. It is even mentioned in John McDonald’s famous Travis McGee series.
It started with a house in what was, then, the ‘country.’ That house is now home to our catterie and a new house was built on the property sometime in the 1990s.
Then came the main kennel with 30+ air-conditioned indoor/outdoor kennel runs. Next came a separate air-conditioned building just for little dogs.
Then came agility fields, a covered pavilion, and a competition-level dock-diving pool.
Of course, over the years, we’ve updated, replaced, and made improvements, but it still has that old Florida look and charm.
Boarding Options
... your pet's home away from home!
DOGS … our best friends!
We love all kinds of dogs, big and small. We even have a special building just for our small canine friends.
We also have a suite in our main kennel that allows more than one dog from the same family to bunk together and play outside together in our fenced-in yard.
Cats … (dogs have masters / cats have staff … yes, we know)
Cats enjoy their time in our catterie. No annoying dogs, peace and quiet, and somebody to attend to their daily needs. We have kitty condos with benches and many with a view to the outside deck. Whether you have one or more cats, they are welcome at DogStars.
Exotic Pets
DogStars has had many unusual guests over the years: parrots, reptiles, sugar gliders, turtles, and more. Bring your own cage, aquarium, and special diet, and we will gladly welcome your exotic pets.
Sorry, we don’t accept tigers (not even baby tigers) … yes, we’ve been asked. This is, after all, Florida!
Special-Needs Pets
We can accommodate almost any special-needs pet of any kind. We know how to administer insulin, give pills, and other medication.
We have even had dogs that needed a helping hand (and a sling) to go outside.
We take of these special pets just as we do for our own: on schedule and compassionately,
Please feel free to call us (941-747-446600 to discuss your pet’s special needs. We want to be sure that we can meet your pets needs before we book a reservation.
Disclaimer: There are some dogs and cats (regardless of breed) that do not do well in boarding situations. Acceptance of a boarding reservation will be at the discretion of our staff members. If, for any reason, our kennel staff does not feel comfortable caring for your pet, we will tell you in advance and suggest some other boarding facilities that will better meet your needs.
Training & Dog Sports
Everything to keep you & your dog happy!
Obedience
Every minute you spend with your dog is a “trainable moment”; either you are training your dog or your dog is training you. Obedience classes based on positive rewards help you and your dog form a forever bond of mutual respect.
Agility
Agility is a competitive sport that is not only fun for you and your dog, it’s the perfect activity for dogs who “need a job.” Come join us under the lights. We have classes for beginners all the way through competition levels.
Nose Work
Nose Work is the fun search and scenting activity for virtually all dogs and people. As your dog grows more confident with his nose, target odors are introduced, and competition skills are taught.
Disc Dogs
Playing a game of chase, catch, and fetch with your dog is an amazing way to train skills and build the bond between handler and dog.
Dock Diving
DogStars is the home for Florida West Coast Air Dogs. Whether your dog is a beginner or ready to compete, come for a splash or just to watch. It’s amazing!
Sports Conditioning
If your dog participates in sports, working with Fitpaws™ and other special equipment, will give themt the extra boost and confidence they need to succeed.
If this is your dog and you don’t
know where to start, let us help!
Just call us at 941-747-4466.
If we don’t have a class that would
help, we will probably be able to
refer you to other resources.
Hey! What's Up?
News and Mews
Help to Keep Your Dog Calm this Summer
The season of summer barbecues and celebrations has begun. For those of us living in Florida, we also have almost daily thunderstorms. If you are boarding your pet with us, please let us know if s/he reacts badly to thunder or fireworks. With more outdoor events and...
read more
Welcome Our New All-Breed Dog Groomer
Andrea Molinari, an award-winning all-breed groomer and handler (originally from Argentina), is joining DogStars on Monday, June 11th. Call today to schedule an appoint for your VIP (very important pet) 941-747-4466.
read moreDaily Outside Activities for Boarders at DogStars
Dog boarding at DogStars is individualized for every dog. Some like to be walked; others like a romp in our play area. Every doggie boarder at DogStars gets outside time twice a day (no extra charge)! Happy campers!...
read more
Monday Morning Laugh
If you can relate to this ... you are not alond.
read more
Online Resource
If you enjoy learning more about dogs: breeds, canine psychology, training tips, health management, diet, senior dogs, puppies, inspirational stories, and so much more, check out iheartdogs.com. Your best friend(s) will thank you!
read more
Dogstars Under New Management
We are pleased to announce that John Gattignolo has assumed management of DogStars. John and his wife Barb are owners of Florida West Coast Air Dogs, the competition dock diving facilities located at DogStars. Under his guidance, some new services are in the works....
read more