About us
We only use scientifically proven, reward based, force free methods when walking or caring for your pet. That basically means your pet will get rewarded for everything he or she does correctly when they are in our care. We do not ever punish bad behavior, but will do our best to positively show your pet a better way to do things. For example, a dog who is still learning to potty outside will get tons of treats and praise for doing its business outside, but will never be scolded by us if we have to clean an accident inside. Scolding a dog for accidents will teach the dog that it is bad to potty anywhere, which will sometimes cause them to hide to go potty. On the flip side, getting treats and praise for doing #1 and #2 outside makes it fun and lets the pup know exactly where you want "the job" to be done.
We offer "after hours" dog walking and pet sitting by trained people who will love your pet as much as you do. We give dog owners, who work nights, holidays, and/or abnormal schedules, the opportunity to have their pets cared for in the comfort of their own home and taken for fun, play-filled walks at times when pet care is normally unavailable.
Doug K-
Owner
My name is Doug Kelley and I am the new and very proud owner of Happy Hound Playground. I very recently took early retirement from the City and County of Denver after 20 years including 12 years as the Director of Denver Animal Protection and the Denver Animal Shelter. I honestly planned to take some time before I decided what was next for me, but on Day 1 of retirement, I saw the ad for Happy Hound Playground. As soon as I read the website and learned the business model, I was hooked and knew I had to find out more. I have spent much of my professional life educating people about Reactive dogs and advocating for positive reinforcement training techniques. Add to the mix that the Happy Hound Playground caretakers are so well trained, and that expanded hours are available for those working nights, and it truly matched my passions and experience, and seemed ‘meant to be’. On Day 9 of retirement, I had the pleasure of meeting with Andi and Sydney. After about 5 minutes of talking to them, I was totally captivated and humbled with their level of commitment, passion, and expertise. They both care so deeply about the dogs, the cats, the customers, and the caretakers. I later told Andi that it was immensely apparent that the business model of what they built and how they approach it needs to be maintained and not compromised. On Day 11 of retirement, I “un-retired” – and I’ve never been happier or more excited than I am knowing that I’ll be working to serve you and your pets, and to continue to provide the level of service and commitment that Andi and Sydney, and everyone else at Happy Hound Playground has done so well for so long.
A little about me – before Denver, I worked for the cities of Westminster and Lakewood - first as an animal control officer, then as a police officer, then as an animal control supervisor. At Denver, I worked with Reactive dogs on a daily basis, and developed the first behavior assessment, training, and treatment program for dogs in a Colorado public-sector animal shelter. I worked closely with rescue organizations and limited-admission animal shelters to provide a resource for those dogs needing longer-term training and care. I was a two-time president of Colorado Federation of Animal Welfare Agencies, and a charter member of the Metro-Denver Shelter Alliance and Shelter Director Alliance. I have presented to state, national, and international animal welfare audiences about forming effective strategic alliances, animal abuse, and emergency preparedness. I was the first public-sector employee in Colorado to become a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator.
I live in Lakewood with my furry family members. I have a bachelor’s degree in organizational management and a master’s degree in public administration. In addition to my animal activities, I work with youth programs in music, hospitals, and entertainment. I grew up on a farm near Broomfield, and I have a lifetime of personal and professional commitment for assuring the humane treatment of animals.
I am sincerely looking forward to meeting you and your awesome pets, listening, and learning.
Andi -
Creator and Former Owner
Andi is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International. After working nights for several years as a First Responder and parenting a dog who was super irritated with her schedule, Andi realized a need for dog care for people who work hours beyond the normal 9-5.
Before creating Happy Hound Playground, Andi trained as a Dog Training and Behavior Specialist Apprentice. Her dog, Gonzo, picked her to be his mom when his foster mom brought him to one of the classes Andi was helping with as an apprentice. Andi has done extensive work and training with Gonzo and his dog reactivity issues and has watched him go from extreme dog aggresssion, to actually being able to happily play with other dogs.
Andi also worked as a Certified Pet Care Technician at PetsHotel and volunteers with Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies in order to learn as much as possible about dog behavior, dog training, Pet First Aid and CPR, and pet care in general. She has some training in TTouch and has studied the works of Dr. Sophia Yin, Victoria Stillwell, Dr. Patricia McConnell, Turid Rugaas, and Grisha Stewart, to name a few.
Sydney F -
General Manager
Hello everyone!
My name is Sydney, the General Manager of Happy Hound Playground! I have been with Happy Hound for 7 amazing years! Time flies when you do what you love and are a part of such an amazing business. I have built so many incredible relationships with our sitters, clients and so many adorable fur babies. I am Certified in Pet CPR/First Aid and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International.
I have always had a passion for animals, especially dogs. I currently own two Shar Peis that are all spoiled rotten. Yes I know wrinkles and puddles of water everywhere! Koda is my reactive baby, both to people and dogs. With tons of positive reinforcement and patience, Koda has learned not all dogs and people are bad. Olive, my newest peibaby loves to eat, wrestle and run around with my slippers. That makes a six year old and a year old!
As a pet owner, it feels amazing to build a connection with reactive dogs. Not only does your companion have so much trust in you but it also gives the feeling of satisfaction that you rescued an animal they said wouldn't be a good addition to your family. To those who do have reactive dog(s), it's not easy but with time, love and patience they will be forever grateful for their new home. If you have any questions about tricks to help with your reactive babies, please let me know.
Sabrina S.
Hello, I'm Sabrina. Born and raised in Colorado. I have traveled and helped family in Florida take care of horses as well as many other animals. I have owed and loved many animals growing up. At one point we had 25 animals in the household, they were all treated as family.
I currently own a one year old pup named Sky, she's my world.
I worked at Camp Bow Wow in the past and have learned a lot about bathing, CPR, as well as dog behavior. I am very excited to be able to help take care of all of your fur babies.
I hope they love me as much as I will love and care for them!
Michelle N.
Hi!! I’m Michelle and I live in the Lakewood area. I’ve always had a deep love for animals ever since I was little. I grew up with a Labrador Retriever but currently have a Greyhound mix and a Charteux kitty. When I lived in Chicago, I volunteered with Animal Care League and got received plenty of experience walking all types of breeds with different needs. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable and fun environment for all animals in my care. I can wait to love, exercise and cuddle your furry companions! I’d love to help you with all your pet care needs and will provide the best possible service!
Motif S.
Hello fellow pet parents!
I'm Motif, I am born and raised in Colorado. I grew up on a small farm outside of Erie and have always had a mix of amazing animals around me. I currently have 3 senior dogs and 1 senior kitty. All require medication and have all their own special needs. I understand how scary it can be to leave your babies in the care of "just anyone". I will love, protect and care for your fur babies as if they are my own. I look forward to spending time with all of them.
Sofia F.
Hi everyone! I’m Sofia and I live in the Denver area. I currently have one cat, but recently moved from my family home in Nebraska where I had two dogs and two other cats, one of the dogs being reactive. I have experience sitting for family and friends over the years, as well as 3 years of volunteering at the zoo in my hometown. There I mainly working with bunnies, other small rodents, and reptiles. I have always loved animals and seen them as an equal part of the family. I know how hard it can be to leave them behind, even for a day, and I promise to give your fur babies the best care possible. I’m excited to take care of your pets and get to know each of them!
Adrianna D.
Hello everyone, my name is Adrianna! A little about me, I am a Phoenix, Arizona native and recently transplanted to the Aurora/Denver area in January of 2023. I moved here with my fiance, our two rabbits, and two reptiles. One of the things that motivated us to move to Colorado was its progressive pet community and networking opportunities. In 2019, I made a major career change and decided to pursue my passion for working with animals full time. Once I was established, there was no going back to a 9:00 to 5:00 desk life for me. Providing exceptional pet care to my community is not only a great job but a passion true to my heart. I love the peace of mind families feel when they know their pet(s) are in good hands and getting the experienced attention they so deserve. I take the time to get to know each client, their routine, and any goals they have for their pets. Using that information to form an enrichment plan that is most beneficial to those needs. It is my goal to be certified in both behavioral training and grooming by the end of 2024. In the meantime, I am so pleased to have found Happy Hound Playground to start this next chapter with. I look forward to meeting you and your pets soon!
Dani M.
Hi everyone! My name is Dani! I am from Colorado native and currently live in the Commerce City area. I am a huge animal lover! I have been around pups all my life, (4 Chow Chows and 1 Rottweiler to be exact!) I have a little sausage of a pup named Courage. He is a Pitbull/Chihuahua mix that I adopted him 4 years ago, weird combo right!? He is a vocal, spoiled little guy and knows it. I spend my free time with my daughter, best friend and fur baby. Traveling is my absolute favorite thing to do! I have been in the Real Estate business for 8 years now so communication and customer service are always my number one priority.
​
I look forward to meeting you and all your fur babies :)
Kara M.
I’m Kara and I'm originally from New Mexico. I'm an Air Force veteran and ended up in Colorado via military moves. I spend most of my time raising my daughter and caring for my 3 dogs and 4 cats. I've been an animal lover as long as I can remember, from turtles to horses, and of course cats and dogs. I see animals as a part of the family, and care for them with a lot of love and kindness. I've fostered dozens of cats and dogs, many with high medical or socialization needs. I know it can be difficult to trust your treasured companions to someone new, so I look forward to making you feel at ease knowing that your pets are in loving hands with me. I look forward to getting to know you and your pet!
Preston S.
Hi! My name is Preston! I am a born and raised Coloradan who adores all animals. I grew up with multiple sizes and breeds of dogs ranging from 6lb chihuahuas all the way to 150lb Irish Wolfhounds. I have a soft spot for larger breeds! In addition to this, I also grew up with multiple indoor and outdoor cats. Animals have always been a huge part of my life.
My mom and I owned 3 senior dogs and a senior cat, all of them requiring daily medication. Sadly they all left this world but I am so lucky to have been able to take care of them and love them for the time I was able. I am very comfortable giving medication to furry friends as well as taking extra care of senior pets!
I currently have a 12 year old golden Lab mix and a 9 month old Australian Shepherd Poodle. Both of them are equally spoiled and loving their spoiled lives together. I can't wait to meet your pets, take amazing care of them and love them as if they were mine!
Aubrey M.
Hi all! My name is Aubrey. I am originally from Florida, but had to find my way to the mountains and winter seasons. I have been working as a Client Service Coordinator at a local veterinarian clinic for almost two years now, and have fallen in love with animals. My favorite part is learning about each pet's personality or silly quirks. Ensuring the health and safety of your pet always comes first, but I always make sure to have fun. Positive reinforcement with treats, praise, or play is my bread and butter, and a great way to earn their trust. I look forward to building a wonderful relationship with you and your pets!
Callie P.
Hello everyone! My name is Callie, I am a proud dog mom of a rambunctious 3-year-old Rottweiler mix named Theodore (pictured above on his adoption day!) I grew up outside of Gunnison, CO in a super small mountain town. I went to college in Durango, CO where I met my wonderful husband and received my BA in Psychology. Throughout my schooling, I took several courses that provided me with a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior, learning principles, and the importance of positive reinforcement in training and during playtime. Over the years I have cared for a variety of dogs, cats, and other pets for my friends and family
members. My love of animals started at a very young age when my mom bought me my very first pet (Goldie) who was a Goldfish, which soon after turned into my first rabbit (Gizmo) who was a Netherland Dwarf Rabbit, which then turned into my first pup (Maggie) who was a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, which… you get the picture! I have always had an animal companion by my side through every stage of life and I wouldn’t change it for anything. I am a very active person and love being out in nature. My husband and I are always trying to fill our spare time with camping, hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, etc. My pup is my constant companion and brings me so much happiness every single day. I am committed to ensuring that your pet has the absolute best care while you are away, and I will treat your pet as if they were my own. I am so excited to meet you and your fur babies!
Rosie G.
Howdy! My name is Rosie. Born and raised here in Colorado. Currently residing in Arvada with my fourteen year old chihuahua mix named Roxy and my three year old husky mix named Dixie! I have eight years of pet care experience including doggie daycares, non-group play boarding facilities, training facilities, cat boarding, kennel management, and six months of professional bathing experience! I also am now a certified Dog Trainer, Graduate of 2025. I can’t wait to accommodate all of your critters needs on a much more personal level than any facility could ever offer! In my free time I enjoy caring for my 80+ houseplants or going to greenhouses for more plants! I fill my summers with days by the pool, hikes with my pups, and attending all the concerts I can! Also I am a huge Colorado Avalanche fan!
Cassidy R.
Hi, I'm Cassidy! I have always had a special place in my heart for the loving and caring for animals since I can remember. Growing up my family did not have many pets due to the chaos of having 2 brother and 2 sisters (yes, I am the middle of 5 siblings) and not having time to care for every animal I would bring home daily as a child. Nevertheless I knew that I would always have a passion for the caring of animals and was curious to learn more.
I grew up in a small town in Michigan and moved out to Denver in 2016 for school. I went to Bel-rea and graduated in 2020 and have been working in hospitals since to continue furthering my career, knowledge and love for the world of animals. Since middle school I have volunteered or worked at animal hospitals/shelters and have pet sat for friends and family. In high school, I took a vocational course to enter and explore the world of veterinary medicine.
I have one dog named Aurora and would like to get her a cat friend in the future! She loves to go on hikes and walks with me but I also enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, playing tennis, and just enjoying being out in nature.
I am so excited to have the pleasure to get to know you and provide the best quality care for your furry best friend!
Lizzy A.
Hi pet parents!
I’m Lizzy! I’m a dog & cat mom and have owned multiple different breeds throughout my life and different species as well! I have worked at a doggie daycares in the past and have cared for both reactive and non-reactive dogs. I know how hard it is to leave your babies behind but I will treat every animal as if they are my own and would love to bring that comfort to fellow pet parents. I can't wait to start working with all of you and your furry babies! I am so excited to be able to build my own special bond with each and every one of them.
Tanya C.
Hi! I'm Tanya. I was born and raised in Colorado until I was 15 and moved to NC to live with my father. After 33 years I decided to move back to my home town in Lakewood where I have been since 2018. My love for animals started when I was a young child. We had dogs, each one of my siblings had a fish and I had a pet rat named rascal. Ever since then I have not gone a day without having an animal in my life. I've had cats and dogs of different breeds and currently share parenting with a sweet cat named Daisy. Pictured is my sweet pea Ginger, my goofy child with four legs! She is no longer with us but because of her, I decided to change careers from retail to dog walking/sitting, as well as a Homecare Companion for seniors. Caring and giving quality time to all brings joy to my heart and I am looking forward to caring for your pets!
Sandy R.
Hi Everyone,
Let me introduce myself by telling you a little about me.
My name is Sandy. I moved here to Littleton, Co from Pittsburgh, PA in 2021.
As a nurse of over 25 years, one of my greatest joys in life is providing exceptional care for people as well as animals/beloved pets.
In Pittsburgh, I had a small farm where I taught my children how to raise, train, treat and care for our's and others, dogs, horses, goats, lambs, chickens & bunnies. I gained majority of my pet experience through leading our 4H Club and attending dog training classes.
My nursing background is a great platform for assessing, implementing and providing necessary care to your furry loved ones. Also, my career has taught me how to strive to provide top notch care to you and your pets by tending to the concerns & comfort needs of the family unit.
I appreciate your consideration in letting me care for your companions and home.
No doubt you and yours will be Happy Hounds after using the Playground!
Raquel J.
Hi there, I’m Raquel! I’m originally from the beautiful mountains of Vail, CO, but I made my way to Denver in 2016 to attend Regis University. There, I earned my bachelor’s degree in Spanish and K-12 Education and spent nearly four amazing years teaching as a licensed Colorado teacher. Now, I’m following my heart into other passions—baking delicious treats and spending time with animals!
I’m a proud pet mom to two cats and two dogs who are the center of my world. My cats have definitely promoted me to full-time janitor and servant, and honestly, I’m okay with that! My dogs and I go on daily walks that are the highlight of our day, and I’d love to bring that same joy, love, and care to your furry family members.
I can’t wait to meet your pets and treat them like my own!
Kalen J.
Hey there! I'm Kalen and I recently moved to Denver from Pensacola, Florida. I'm a passionate dog sitter and walker, and animals have have always been a huge part of my life. I have two rescue pups of my own that I devote so much time and love to, Andy the Maltese and Sophie the small but mighty Doxie. I completely understand how much love, care and attention our furry friends need especially when Mom and Dad are away. I know how important it is to find someone you can trust and care for your pets. I treat every pet as if they were my own, providing a safe, reliable, and loving experience so you can have peace of mind while you're away.
Whether your pet needs a fun walk, a check-in during the day, or overnight care, you can count on me to give them the best care possible- no worries, no concerns, just a happy well loved pet.
For years, I worked in the corporate world, but I found myself feeling unfulfilled. I wanted to do something that brought me genuine happiness and purpose. That's when I made the decision to leave behind a traditional 9-5 and pursue a career that aligns what truly matters to me- caring for animals. Dogs have an incredible way of bringing joy, companionship, and unconditional love into our lives, and I knew I wanted to dedicate my time to making sure they receive the same in return.
​
I'm so excited to meet both existing and new Happy Hound Playground pets and parents! I look forward to building relationships with you and your furry companions.