Providing premium pet care & peace of mind, a premiere pet lodging, daycare, training & spa facility
We are compassionate, knowledgeable pet lovers leading the industry in providing superior pet care based on sound medical practices and positive behavioral philosophies. We value the individuality of the pets in our care, and we share our love of animals through an active engagement with our community.
At Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat we’ve gone to great lengths to create one of the region’s premiere pet lodging, daycare, training and spa facility Our goal is to create a fun and safe environment where pets love to come and play and where owners can confidently place their trust in our standards of care for their pets. With 10,000 sq. ft. of state-of-the-art interior space and acres of wooded grounds, along with our full complement of customizable care options, we offer our guests a superior experience every visit.
Keywords: Pet Boarding, Kennel, Cat Boarding, Dog Boarding, Pet Hotel, Training, Grooming, Doggie Daycare
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since 1997
What is your primary product or service?
Pet lodging, Daycare, Training and Spa Facility
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Dogwood Acres began out of a desire by owners, Kurt and Audrey Reichardt to find a quality pet retreat for their beloved Black Lab, Casey. As young, accomplished professionals, they had the opportunity to travel extensively, but hated leaving Casey somewhere they would not stay themselves. They wanted a place where Casey could get lots of outdoor exercise and tons of personal attention in a clean and comfortable setting.
Recognizing that their expectations for a pet care facility were high, but assuming there must be others that share the same desires for their pets, they began developing Dogwood Acres.
To achieve their vision, they combined their love of animals with their respective professional backgrounds. Kurt’s background is in architecture and Audrey’s expertise is in organization development, human resources and customer service. In addition, Kurt grew up helping his family run a small veterinary clinic and Audrey grew up on a horse farm where animals were a part of her everyday life. All of this led to creating a place where they could feel good leaving Casey. And so, Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat was born on September 9, 1997.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
Industry experience shows that pets who are actively engaged are happier and healthier—especially while they’re away from home. Dogwood Acres is an industry leader in providing safe and enriching opportunities for play and exercise. Our focused efforts on providing a safe and fun environment creates a place where pets love to come and play.
Unlike a traditional boarding kennel, our focus is to provide meticulous personal attention, completely individualized care, and enriching and fun activities - all in a state-of-the art facility - with a knowledgeable and friendly staff. This commitment ensures our guests will experience a superior level of care and comfort every visit.
Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is uniquely trained and certified by the Pet Care Services Association to ensure that every guest receives the care, attention and love he or she deserves.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
One
Provide detailed directions to your location
From Annapolis
Take Riva Road South about 5 miles until it ends at Central Avenue (Rt. 214). You will see a BP Station directly in front of you. At this intersection, make a left onto Central Avenue. We are located about 1/8 of a mile from that intersection on the right hand side. Look for our large cream and green sign!
From Baltimore
Take 97 South until it merges with 50 East. Follow exit signs for Aris T. Allen Boulevard (Rt. 665) and then immediately follow exit signs for Riva Road. Take the Riva Road exit and take a right onto Riva Road. Follow Riva Road about 5 miles until it ends at Central Avenue (Rt. 214). You will see a BP Station directly in front of you. At this intersection, make a left onto Central Avenue. We are located about 1/8 of a mile from that intersection on the right hand side. Look for our large cream and green sign!
From Washington D.C.
Take 50 East until you reach the Davidsonville exit (Exit 16). Take Exit 16 and follow the exit ramp to the right as it merges with Rt. 424. Follow Rt. 424 for approximately 5 miles until you reach the traffic light intersection of Rt. 424 with Rt. 214 (Central Avenue). At this intersection, you will see the Davidsonville Country Market to your right. Take a left onto Rt. 214 (Central Avenue). Follow Central Avenue for approximately 1.5 miles. You will pass a BP station on your right. We are located about 1/8 of a mile after the BP station on the right hand side. Look for our large cream and green sign!
If you need further directions, please feel free to give us a call and we'll be happy to help.
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash, Check, All Major Credit Cards
Which areas do you service?
Serving Annapolis, Baltimore and DC Metro Areas
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Audrey & Kurt Reichardt
What are your hours of operation?
Monday - Friday
8am - 11am & 2pm - 6pm (Lobby Closed 11-2)
Saturday & Sunday
8am - 4pm
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
We provide Trust & Comfort!
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
“Folks will know how large your soul is by the way you treat a dog.” – Charles F. Duran