"A tired dog is a happy dog!  Although people probably think of daycare as something for young, energetic dogs, Enki is a stellar example of the benefits of daycare for an older dog.  At almost 13 years old, Enki has lived to nearly twice the life expectancy of a Leonberger and South Paws deserves a lot of the credit for that.

Enki began attending South Paws when they first opened in 2006.  He was already "old" for a Leonberger and his exercise needs were not high but I worried about his lack of emotional and mental stimulation being left at home, alone, all day.  He clearly gets excited on "School Days".  It clearly gives him a sense of purpose.  Even though he now has Degenerative Myelopathy and has some trouble getting around, I think it's more important than ever that he goes to South Paws.  The other dogs give him a reason to get up and he gets exercise that he would not get at home that keep his muscles strong.  Enki is not a "People-Person" but the staff is so attentive to each dog's individual needs that Enki loves everyone on the South Paws team.

In addition to daycare, South Paws also has a nice selection of high quality food and treats at very resonable prices.  Karen is well schooled in animal nutrition and can counsel you on the best diet and products for your specific needs. I cannot stress enough how much an investment in your pet's diet, mental health and exercise can pay off in increased lifespan, a better behaved pet and fewer health problems.  We are lucky to have South Paws!"

Valerie S., Hanover, MA  

"Ollie, my Black Lab, has been going to South Paws for nearly 4 years now.  The staff at South Paws is unbelievable!  The owners, Karen & Tim, along with all of their employees (Jen G, Kristin, Seamus, Jen V & Jess) are wonderful with all of the dogs and provide service that is second-to-none.  It is clear from their daily interactions with both dog and human clients, that they truely care about the work they do and that they are serious about allowing the dogs to play, get exercise and interact in a safe and controlled environment.

The area in wich the dogs play is very spacious, with sections cordoned off for the smaller dogs and the larger dogs to roam around, play, wrestle and rest.  In addition to the interior play area, there are also outdoor areas where the dogs can play about, get some sun and relieve themselves.  Regardless of the weather, with the South Paws facility and the excellent staff, you can be assured that your dog is well taken care of and safe at all times.

One thing that Karen told me when I first brought Ollie to South Paws was to expect him to be really tired after a full day of playing.  Man, was she ever right!  I live about 10 minutes away but believe me when I tell you that my dog was absolutely asleep in the back seat on the way home.  It is essential for Ollie to get regular exercise (he goes twice a week-Tuesdays & Thursdays).  I work in a public safety profession with all sorts of hours and days so often times Ollie doesn't get as much walking time as he deserves.  His time at South Paws is essential to his physical health and mental well-being.  If, for some reason, Ollie isn't able to get to daycare on his regular days, he definitely notices it so I'll try to get him there on another day.

In short, my dog looks forward to going to "school" and I am always happy to bring him to a place where I know the people care about him and are happy to care for him.  Honestly, with the relationship that myself, my family members and Ollie have with the staff at South Paws, I would never even dream of bringing my dog to another place.  Plus, they have EVERYTHING in their store-from high quality food to natural treats, toys and apparel-all priced very fairly.  I buy all of Ollie's food at South Paws, simply because he loves it and it's very convenient.

Thank you Karen, Tim, Jen G., Kristen, Seamus, Jess & Jen V for continuing to provide unsurpassed care for Ollie!

Rob C., Hanover