We broke ground for our new doggie condo the first part of September 2003 and our Rayeh left her paw print in the sidewalk as a forever reminder of how "it all began". With 1200 sq. ft. of space, the condo houses four lounging areas with kennel decks for warmth and a concrete floor to keep the dogs cool during the warm months. Large doggie doors lead outside into four huge yards for an abundance of exercise daily. Each area is on a gradual incline which enables the dogs in building muscle, developing strong bone and strengthening the cardiovascular system. They are able to acclimate to a higher elevation in this location, getting lots of fresh air, playtime and most of all freedom!
We also have another large yard that is adjacent to the NE side of our home for easy access into the house. This is especially helpful being downhill a bit when the ladies are going through their heat cycle. It also makes it less stressful on our boys. This building will house the 2nd stage of the development of the puppies, where they are moved from the house into another sleeping area, between 4 and 5 weeks of age depending on the time of year. Here they quickly learn about the doggie door that leads into their own "puppy yard," which aids in their growth and development and adaption to the great outdoors. This is where they will learn the survival skills of the wild by watching the deer, the elk and coyotes play.
Summertime puppies get the pleasure of being introduced to water other than their weekly baths via their own swimming pool, whereas wintertime kids get to play and slide in the snow! They are always astonished and fascinated by green grass when they get to their new homes that are warm and green all year long. The building stays nice and cool in the summer months, and warm and cozy in the colder months by an industrial overhead propane heater.
It is set up with a playtime area, complete with puppy toys, tunnels and fun stuff for the long, drawn out cold, winter days or when the rain is falling to heavy for outdoor fun. There are large and small windows for plenty of lighting for the standards, as well as dynamic views of the great outdoors for us to enjoy. We have perfect opportunities to view wildlife unaware to them.