NOT YOUR AVERAGE BOARDING FACILITY
On more than one occasion, I had heard of Trevor, the owner of Happy Stay who has the kindest heart. Happy Stay is a family run animal holiday home – cattery & kennels.
I was planning a trip to England and hoped to visit Happy Stay. Trevor happily agreed to speak with me and didn’t mind the interruption. In fact, he was incredibly generous with his time. I was given the full tour and introduced to every guest that was staying at the facility at the time.
Upon arrival, I am welcomed with smiles, and even though the sun is shining, the warmth I feel is as much from the setting as it is the weather. The team is friendly, calm and inviting. Trevor has disappeared temporarily but it doesn’t take the staff long to locate him, and they are happy to do so. I was not made to feel I was inconveniencing anyone even though they were busy.
After our introduction, we head into the cat accommodations where The Carpenters are serenading the occupants with ‘Close To You.’ The two-story ‘hotel rooms’ are a generous size, bright, and very clean. Each guest has a cat flap with access to an outdoor sunroom. The buildings are all temperature regulated, and each bed has a heating pad, a nicety for cooler days and evenings. Talk about luxury! If you’re not convinced this is a five-star hotel for cats, let me tell you about some of the other options:
A family suite or double pens are also available for your companions (in both the cat and dog buildings). This cat hotel boasts nine double and five family accommodations. Initially, there weren’t family kennels available for dogs, so Trevor set about building four of them. People appreciate family time for their companions – there were no vacancies at the time of my visit!
If a cat is so inclined, they are permitted to wander the bright and spacious halls while their rooms are cleaned. Individual or companions – different families do not interact.
Trevor adores animals. Until recently, he had seven cats and two dogs of his own. If a cat can’t be rehomed or is too ill, it usually ends up in Trevor’s home. He knows everything about each of those in his care – more than just what is listed on medical records. He knows their personality quirks and any fears they may have. If he isn’t told about these things before their arrival, Trevor learns soon enough – he spends a considerable amount of time with everyone, visiting the cats and dogs regularly.
Trevor looks after people’s companions, and collaborates with South Devon rescue, caring for those in need of rehoming to ensure the right homes are found for each. Fizz is one of several cats waiting comfortably at Happy Stay until she finds a forever home. She is fourteen-years-old and has a thyroid condition. Trevor had an older lady call to inquire about Fizz but decided a condition that required a schedule of medication was too much responsibility for her. ‘I need to be honest about the situation,’ he says as he gently lifts Fizz out of her cage for a cuddle and some sweet talk.
She just wants a lap to lay on
Mini is an adoptable who found herself in Trevor’s care after he intervened, rescuing her from an unsuitable situation. Trevor says a number of his adoptable cats are rehomed by customers who board other companions with him. Local vets also promote Trevor’s cats. Tiny is a special needs, adoptable cat currently undergoing diabetes testing. When asked how the rescue side is funded Trevor explains that he covers the costs himself. Although he admits they could do with a bit more advertising, he works twelve to fourteen hours a day and doesn’t have extra time for fundraising.
Happy Stay has been in existence for more than thirty years and is currently registered to care for eighty cats and thirty-six dogs (depending on the number of ‘families’ in his care). These days, he has cut back the number of cats by fifteen to be generous with his time and affection for his customers. When Trevor took ownership of the facility, it was given a much-needed facelift, and floors and heating were redone. He tries to have the floors repainted each year.
Do you remember this big fella? I’d be surprised if you do as he is looking so much healthier these days. Patch is a guest at Happy Stay and has been visiting for years. While recovering from surgery, Patch became extremely fond of a particular red blanket. That is the type of familiar item an owner may wish to leave with their companions. Click here to read our post about Patch’s brain surgery to remove a tumor.
In addition to providing food for their stay, pet owners are welcome to bring special toys, treats, blankets and other items for the comfort of their companions. Happy Stay has alternative items available for guests with less particular preferences. Proof of vaccinations is required before companions are booked to stay in the accommodations for the wellbeing of all guests. Details about the animals are shared on chalkboards outside each pen. This information is limited to names, dietary requirements or special needs.
PERSONAL INFORMATION IS NOT DISPLAYED
As we continue to tour the cat accommodations, Trevor is greeted by a chorus of happy ‘meows’ from feline guests. They all seem to be very content and enjoying their luxury spaces. Charlotte, one of Trevor’s team members, comes in and politely asks if Trevor would come and speak with a future guest.
Dolly is Charlotte’s cat – she enjoys ‘day privileges’ at Happy Stay.
In Trevor’s absence, Charlotte starts to escort us to the dog kennels. En route, we meet Scamp and his owner, Wendy. Scamp is fifteen-years-old, and although he is completely deaf, he happily wags his tail and verbally greets us. He can’t hear himself and is therefore unaware of the tone of his adorable little how-do-you-dos. Scamp is here to say hello to, and become familiar with the staff before his first happy stay. Trevor is glad to spend time with his future guest and Scamp is enjoying the attention.
Before saying goodbye, Trevor and Wendy arrange another visit for Scamp. Trevor has finally booked a holiday – his first in more than thirteen years, yet he sounds apologetic when explaining that he is unavailable during certain days. Another visit is scheduled, and we continue our way to the dogs.
The kitchen, where food is prepared, and medications are stored, is neat and clean.
Each of the dog kennels has it’s own, separate outside run area. Dogs are kept separate from each other although family play is permitted. Four of the kennels are large, pack-sized accommodations.
Trevor introduces us to Max, a deaf and blind dog who, in less than a week learned his way around his kennel and figured out how to access the outdoor run.
Some people ask ‘why keep a dog alive if they’re like that’ but Max is so happy to be here
Other special needs include diabetes, seizures, and a terminal illness. Depending on the severity of the condition, some dogs are given more private accommodation in the laundry area. It is warm, cozy and quieter for very special guests.
During my visit, there were twenty-seven canine companions at Happy Stay including ‘drop off Daisy’ who, quite often visits the facility for daycare, two of Charlotte’s dogs and Trevor’s newest addition, Freddie, a five and a half-year-old teacup Yorkshire Terrier. Freddie previously belonged to an older woman whose health was declining. Trevor agreed to her request for him to care for Freddie before she passed, only a few weeks later. Shortly after that, Henry, Trevor’s beloved Bulldog, also passed. Thankfully, Trevor and Freddie had each other during their difficult transitions.
It is rare that you will find someone who will care for your animals as you do. Having witnessed the relationship Trevor and his team has with guests, I can assure you, your companions will be in good hands at Happy Stay while you are away.
Thank you, Trevor and the Happy Stay team for the tour of your beautiful pet resort, and the care you provide to the animals,
Kelly says
What an amazing place and an amazing person Trevor is! I loved this post and if this pet resort was anywhere near me, I would not hesitate having my dog or cats go there for a visit or stay after reading this article.
Sadie says
I agree. I wish we had somewhere like this in the GTA!
leanne says
What a warm place. There is nothing more important than being honest with folks about a pet’s true condition, like he did with sweet Fizz. Otherwise, they’re only returned and after yet more stress. What a lovely home like environment for kitties to be until they find their forever home. And then, more exposure, more likely adoption! Thank you for sharing, Leanne
Sadie says
For those waiting for forever homes, this was a sweet spot to hang in the meantime.
Cathy Armato says
What a fabulous place for these cats and dogs to be, you can see how much amazing care and love they receive there. This story is so heartwarming, I really enjoyed reading it! Thanks for sharing.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Sadie says
Thank you, Cathy.
Kamira Gayle says
Wow you can tell the love and care Trevor has for all his visitors. What a great resort. I mean you really can’t go wrong staying at a resort that plays the Carpenters right? How fancy. I love his dedication to maintaining top quality care and attention for the animals. Love the last photo. Look at that face!!
Sadie says
I have been in places that blast the music that staff members want to listen to. The station playing at Happy Stay was chosen to keep guests relaxed and enjoying their retreat.
Heather Wallace says
Sadie, your blog is absolutely stunning and beautiful. What an amazing place, I would absolutely feel confident having my pets there.
Sadie says
Thank you, Heather, I really appreciate your kind words about my blog.
I would LOVE to operate a place like this one day. Being there and meeting all the guests was an incredible experience.
Ruth Epstein says
What an amazing place WOW, your post really made me want to send Layla to stay there for a couple of days although LOL it is in the UK. He sounds like such a wonderful warm loving man and that makes such a difference when we leave our pampered pets in others care.
Sadie says
Well said, Ruth. It makes a huge difference. Nothing like stressing about your pets while you’re supposed to be relaxing on holiday.
Debbie says
What a great place! I love that he helps rescue animals waiting for forever homes too. And the family boarding is awesome. I’d have to find a place like this if i ever boarded my pups. I think separating them would make it so much harder. Best of luck to Trevor and his little boy Freddie! So glad they found each other 🙂
Sadie says
It’s funny you say that. There was a pack of three smaller dogs sharing a space and their larger, poodle brother had his own space. He wanted ‘me’ time away from the three little ones lol
Team Dash Kitten says
This is so amazing So absolutely amazing.
Trevor you are a rock star of wonderfulness and I bet every cat and dog loves you to bits.
I bet this is THE most popular pet stay every.
Team Dash Kitten recently posted…Their Souls Slip Away #RememberMeThursday 2017
Sadie says
The guests were all so happy to see Trevor.
Dear Mishu says
Beautiful story. I love reading and seeing the loving atmosphere that Trevor creates for all dogs and cats. Thank you!
Sadie says
Thank you. Yes, even the fact that it is given a fresh coat of paint, regularly, shows how important the little details are to Trevor.
Tenacious Little Terrier says
This sounds like a great place for cats and dogs to stay. Daycares that also foster rescue pets get extra brownie points in my book. Freddie is adorable and I’m glad he found a great new home.
Sadie says
I wanted to tuck Freddie in my bag. ADORABLE!
Carleen says
Looks like a great place. I get rather anxious about boarding my pets, this place look like it would put my mind at ease.
Sadie says
I’m the same. I’m lucky that my parents come to stay with our crew. I love that there are family areas.
paroma says
Such a beautiful resort and such a kind human! Two thumbs up to Trevor for taking such good care of these little ones and finding them good homes.
Sadie says
Indeed. Trevor is such a lovely, humble man.
Sweet Purrfections says
This sounds like the type of place my girls may be comfortable staying in if I ever had to board them. I haven’t been too impressed with the boarding facilities for cats that are near me.
Sadie says
Oh, I could see them enjoying the space. Truffle and Brulee would love the outdoor area and heated beds!
Beth says
It is so important that your pets have a lovely place to stay while you are away. It is wonderful that Trevor helps out with cats who are waiting to find forever homes! I’m glad that Freddie and Trevor have each other!
Sadie says
Trevor is a guardian angels to so many. It’s nice that the universe connected him with Freddie.
Wendy Emlyn says
Thank you for sending me this article, Sadie, and for the adorable photo of my Scamp! Only a couple of weeks now until his first stay there, and I’m sure it will be a Happy Stay!
Sadie says
You’re most welcome. It was a pleasure meeting you both and I hope you both enjoy your vacations!
Kitty Cat Chronicles says
What a wonderful place! What a heart Trevor has! And how awesome that you got to visit. This is the kind of boarding facility I would feel comfortable leaving my pets at. I wonder if they have a family room that fits 7 cats?! hahaha.
Sadie says
They would definitely need the penthouse! I’m sure Trevor would find a way to accommodate your crew – he’s that kind of guy.