Alexandria, VA – Located in the heart of Old Town, The Dog Park (705 King St.) has recently expanded to offer structured doggy day care. Since opening their pet boutique in late 2022, owners Markos Panas, Noelie Rickey, and Doug Abedje have realized clients need a safe, fun place to drop off their dog during the day. The trio knew they needed to find a place and wanted to partner with dog training specialist, Kyle Gilliam.
Gilliam, owner of Trained by Kyle, is a balanced trainer who uses both rewards and gentle corrections to help dogs thrive. Opened in September, the day care offers small playgroups, outdoor walks all around Old Town, supervised play, and one-on-one time with trainers to engage dogs mentally and physically while reinforcing good behavior.
“We renovated the space. It’s awesome,” said Panas, who shared they were elated when the floor above The Dog Park became available. “We’ve got exercise and training equipment up there and a big playroom and two rooms for kennels.”
Two-year-old French bulldog, Fancy, has trained with Kyle since she was four months old and now attends day care a few times a week. Her owner, Robin Strickland, often shops at The Dog Park and says they have good specialty items like seat harnesses, special treats, and clothing.
Drop-offs are extremely convenient. She just texts and they meet her at the car. “Whenever we drive up to the store Fancy starts wiggling her butt and wagging her tail and getting excited.” Robin told The Zebra. “She knows she’s about to have a fun day at day care.”
The day care prioritizes structured fun, reinforcing behaviors like impulse control, staying on command, and accepting grooming. Quiet time and built-in naps are added to their busy days.
Taylor Barnes of Barnes Real Estate Company also sends his beloved rescue, Angus, to day care two to three times a week. Jennifer Gordon with Leader of the Rescue Pack saved the pitbull and lab mix, Angus, around two years old, came to live with Barnes as the program launched, and he’s been attending ever since.
Since Barnes is a first-time dog owner, he did his research. Many of his real estate clients recommended Trained by Kyle. Barnes has become familiar with the entire facility and recommends The Dog Park to everyone he knows.
Referring to employees, he said, “Zaniya is there every morning to start the day with Angus,” and he is usually hanging out with Lauren when I pick him up or working out on his treadmill with Zach or Zaniyah.” The business is the only place he trusts for grooming.
The Dog Park keeps their food prices extremely low to encourage Old Town residents and others to shop locally. “Customers who take advantage of grooming and day care services accrue points in our loyalty program,” Rickey said. The practice saves owners $50-$60 a month on food and gear.
The day care is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 pm., with drop-in rates for half or full day. Monthly subscriptions packages are available. Grooming add-ons are offered. Visit thedogpark.com or call 703-888-2818 to schedule a free evaluation.
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