About Us

Christmas 2004 - Karen, Kain, Stevie, & Vida

It is because of this wonderful breed that OtterTail Pet Resort got its name . . . the otter tail of a Labrador Retriever is the breed's trademark - it acts as a rudder as the dog maneuvers through the water. It is the only breed of dog identified in the AKC Breed Standard with this distinguishing feature. It seemed only fitting that the name of this wonderful facility would reflect her love for her own beloved companions!

Karen has had many successes in the world of dogs . . . conformation wins, obedience titles, Therapy Dog International program awards, etc. You can learn more about her own dogs by checking out www.MarshyHope.mav.net . In addition to being a Canine Good Citizen Evaluator for the American Kennel Club (Evaluator #15833), she has also been awarded the certification of Pet Care Technician by the ABKA and is currently working towards advanced certification. Karen is an active member of many wonderful local and national clubs and organizations. Click on them to find out more!

Her reputation in the dog community is impeccable and OtterTail Pet Resort is the culmination of all of her dreams - bringing pets and their owners together in a way that can deepen their bond, improve their daily lives, and reflect the true love and loyalty that each has for the other. And, of course, to give those wonderful pets a safe, clean, and comfortable vacation spot when their owners have to be away.

Located on 10 acres in Delmar, DE (next to our 70+ acres family farm), our entire facility enjoys the most advanced technology available in pet care today. For the absolute comfort and health of our guests, every inch of OtterTail is heated, air-conditioned, and immaculately maintained. The historic farm house (referred to as a mansion in the original deeds), built in the 1890's, has been completely renovated and restored. It serves as a full time residence, as well as a warm & welcoming starting point when you enter our driveway. Our cattery is a private room, completely separate from our canine friends, with huge windows that over-look our family farm. The attached garage serves as our Puppy Pre-School classroom and lecture/training facility.

OtterTail strives to exceed the expectations of our clientele, and that starts with the foundation of quality care: super-sized, climate-controlled housing for every guest, superior health and safety protocols, experienced, caring, qualified staff, and acres of fenced country-side for safe exercise, fresh air, and play.

Our interior kennels are heavy-duty welded steel mesh from Options Plus (click to check out the quality!) with corrugated privacy panels dividing each accommodation. This helps to reduce excess barking and stress, and virtually eliminates across-kennel contamination . Our 12' outside runs are fully covered for safety and shade and are also completely private with individual privacy panels so no guest feels like he is being watched!

Our personalized approach to care offers a more quiet, clean, and relaxed environment than many traditional facilities can offer.

Our innovative Health Warranty Program is recommended and endorsed by the American Boarding Kennel Association. The Health Warranty Program gives you peace of mind knowing that any veterinary bills that may arise during your pet's stay will be paid for by us for any amount up to $300. This coverage also extends up to 72 hours after leaving OtterTail for any "kennel related illness" as documented by your veterinarian. Unfortunately, our geriatric guests and those with pre-existing conditions are excluded from participation. Each pet who qualifies for the Health Warranty Program will be charged $5 upon arrival, regardless of length of stay. Participation in this program will give you comfort in knowing that we have a team approach when it comes the the health and happiness of our guests - whether sleeping under your roof or ours!