About Us
Mountainside Pet Lodge LLC was a business idea we had after struggling to find a good fit for our adopted rescue pups to stay when we traveled. Most were large scale kennels, they seemed loud, overcrowded and very similar to the environment in which our dogs were abandoned. We wanted a place where our pets would feel safe and loved in our absence, so that we could enjoy our vacation worry- free and confident they were well cared for.
After years of looking, we were fortunate to find an amazing space for our pets, but in doing so realized there was a need for more of these loving home environments. So, we started to create space in our home and on our property to welcome your fur babies into our family. Our entire family takes part in things running smoothly. The kids help with collecting and giving snuggles, finding your pets favorite scratchy spots, and playing fetch. My husband helps with the cleaning and maintenance, and I focus on the general care and daily operations.
We believe a perfect environment for most pets is the one closest to their home life and we try to create that space for them. We are a very small business and able to give them quality time. Many of the dogs that stay with us choose to sleep with us in our bedrooms. During the day we strive to create a balanced routine of exercise, companionship, mental stimulation and relaxation. We have a 2-acre fenced area and an adventurous mountain side for our daily hikes.
Meet our head caretaker
My name is Dawn Vukas, and I am the head caretaker at Mountainside Pet Lodge. Since I was a child, I have had a deep love and respect for animals. Growing up on a small family farm, we had many different animals including cows, chickens, turkeys, a horse, goats, rabbits, cats, dogs, and ferrets. When I was old enough to work, I entered my dream job in the field of animal welfare. I spent many years assisting in all aspects of animal care and rescue. During that time, I learned a lot about animal care, behavior and communication. Some of the duties I performed while working in animal welfare included, but not limited to are.
cruelty investigation animal care cleaning/feeding
medication management/basic first aid physical health examinations
vaccinations animal adoption coordinating
supervising and managing kennel/staff managing dog pack play
I also am the acting Animal Control Officer for my town and take my role seriously. I continue to regularly support animal rescues by providing foster care, dog walking, cleaning and adoption support. I believe my many years in the field of animal welfare coupled with my strong love and devotion to animals make me a good choice for caring for your pet's needs. I always make more room on my lap for a snuggle and am ready to lace up my boots for another hike!
I look forward to meeting your family and pets and welcome you to visit my home. All of us here at Mountainside Pet Lodge treat your pets like part of our family, with the care and respect they deserve so that you can enjoy worry-free time away. If you are looking for a place where your pets will be safe, happy, and well cared for, please schedule a trial day soon to meet!
