About Us
A Stay in the Country
A Stay in the Country Pet Lodge provides dog boarding, daycare, grooming, and training services guided by clear standards of care. Our approach is built around safety, structure, and respect for each dog as an individual.
Since 2006, we have served dog families throughout Richmond, Virginia and the surrounding counties. While services and programs have evolved over time, the principles that guide how we care for dogs have remained consistent.
Our Commitment
We are committed to providing care that is deliberate, respectful, and guided by what dogs need—not by what is easiest or fastest. These principles are not marketing language. They are the foundation of how we operate, how we train our staff, and how we care for every dog entrusted to us.
If our approach aligns with what you’re looking for, we welcome the opportunity to meet you and your dog.
Our Approach to Care
We believe dogs do best in environments where expectations are clear, routines are consistent, and care decisions are made thoughtfully. Dogs are never rushed, forced, or treated as interchangeable.
Every dog is observed, handled, and cared for based on their individual needs, comfort level, and well-being.
Safety as a Foundation
Safety guides every aspect of our operation. Secure environments, structured supervision, and calm group management are essential to how we care for dogs.
If an activity or situation does not support a dog’s safety or emotional comfort, it is adjusted or avoided.
Individualized Care
Dogs arrive with different personalities, energy levels, and preferences. We take the time to understand these differences and adjust care accordingly.
There is no one routine that works for every dog, and convenience never outweighs a dog’s well-being.
Professional Responsibility
Caring for dogs well requires knowledge, experience, and accountability. Our care team is trained in canine behavior and safety practices, maintains Pet First Aid and CPR certifications, and participates in ongoing education.
Professional standards guide our decisions at every level.
Consistency & Accountability
Dogs rely on predictability to feel secure. We maintain consistent routines, expectations, and care standards so dogs can settle more easily and pet parents can feel confident in the care provided.
With ownership living on the property, daily operations are closely overseen and standards are upheld consistently.
Our Environment
Our country setting provides space, fresh air, and a quieter atmosphere than many urban facilities. Indoor and outdoor spaces are designed to support both activity and rest, allowing dogs to move through their day at an appropriate pace.
Our Team
Training, Education & Accountability
Our team is made up of dedicated dog behavior and pet care professionals who share a deep respect for dogs and a commitment to thoughtful, attentive care.
Every member of our care team receives hands-on training in canine behavior, safety procedures, and our standards of care. Staff maintain Pet First Aid and CPR certifications and participate in ongoing education to ensure best practices remain current.
Training does not end after onboarding—it is an ongoing expectation.
Meet The Owner
Harriet has thousands of hours of dog handling experience and is an expert in identifying and managing dog behavior. She has been training, showing, breeding and caring for animals for more than 30 years. Many of her dogs have received American Kennel Club titles in conformation, agility, obedience and herding.
A dedicated animal lover, Harriet is involved in the local canine community. She actively utilizes and promotes positive training reinforcement techniques. Harriet passes on her knowledge, experience and passion for dogs to our kennel staff to ensure extraordinary care for your pet.
Meet the Manager
Judy Heavilin has been a valued part of A Stay in the Country Pet Lodge since 2014. Over the years, she has worked in every role within the facility, giving her a deep, practical understanding of daily operations and the needs of both dogs and staff.
Judy has served as the lodge manager for the past seven years. Her experience, ongoing training, and certifications support consistent care, clear routines, and thoughtful decision-making. Judy’s hands-on leadership helps ensure that every dog receives attentive, well-managed care aligned with our standards.
New Clients
What Our Customers Are Saying
“Our dog, Lollie, LOVES A stay in the Country! The facilities are excellent and there’s plenty of room for her to run and play. Most importantly, we know Lollie receives great care from a staff that’s very knowledgeable and truly cares for each pet like it’s their own. We HIGHLY recommend A Stay in the Country and wouldn’t consider leaving our pet with anyone else.”
“I am the owner of six dogs who are like children to me. I take all six of my dogs to Harriet at “A Stay in The Country” every time I have to travel. My experience with Harriet has been that she is a real dog lover and takes the time to make sure that each one of my dogs has a stress-free enjoyable stay. I drive an hour to take my dogs to a Stay in the Country because I feel that with Harriet, they will receive the attention and care that they get at home.”
“Buster Brown wags his tail and gets excited when we pull into the scenic entranceway at A Stay in the Country. It is an idyllic setting for dogs to be at one with all that nature has to offer on their vacation. I am at peace knowing that he will be safe, loved and content during his stay; and it is evident to me that when I pick him up, he has had a doggone good time! I will always board Buster Brown at A Stay in the Country when I have to go out of town because I know he will be spoiled and happy and you are conveniently located near the airport. You have a loyal customer!”
- Check out more reviews here!
Memberships and Affiliations
