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Tails wag for dog destination where play meets gourmet

Tails wag for dog destination where play meets gourmet

Cody O’Kelly, owner and president of Hunky Hound Handlers, with his dogs Mia, a black lab, and Tepper, a Weimaraner, outside HHH Canine Lodge and Ranch at 332 Norfolk Road in East Canaan.

L. Tomaino

EAST CANAAN — With cozy quarters, canine cuisine and professional handlers, HHH Canine Lodge & Ranch opened its doors in March.

The operation at 332 Norfolk Road in East Canaan is run by Cody O’Kelly, owner and president of Hunky Hound Handlers, who has recently expanded to include the location formerly known as Pooch Palace.

O’Kelly assured customers that the retail store at 11 Railorad St. will remain open and “continue offering raw food, gently cooked kibble options, supplements and nutrition guidance, and grooming, while the Canine Lodge & Ranch will handle boarding, training, and structured care.”

“The expansion isn’t just about adding more services — it’s about raising the standard for dog care in a way that makes sense,” O’Kelly said. “Everything we do is about helping dogs live their best lives in the real world — not just when they’re with us, but in their everyday lives with their owners.”

HHH is dedicated to the “real world approach” to dogs. “This means focusing on what actually works, not just what’s trending,” O’Kelly said.

O’Kelly’s inspiration came years ago. “It all started with a love for adventure and a realization that most traditional pet care wasn’t meeting dogs’ real needs.”

His Australian Labradoodle, Nikki, was his first hiking partner. “When she wasn’t up for intense trails, I started bringing other dogs along. That led to running a hiking service, which turned into a deeper passion for structured exercise, training and nutrition.”

HHH’s real world approach consists of balanced training in which O’Kelly said they “use clear communication — both rewards and corrections — to help dogs gain confidence, reliability and off-leash freedom.” Custom nutrition is important with “everything from raw feeding guidance to supplements that actually support a dog’s needs.”

Also key is adventure and movement. O’Kelly stresses “Dogs need more than a walk around the block. That’s why we prioritize pack hikes, structured outdoor time and confidence-building activities that help them thrive.”

HHH Canine Lodge & Ranch offers an “a la carte menu” of activities to choose from for the dogs staying there.

“We offer standard boarding, private luxury suites, and double kennels for multi-dog households. Dogs staying with us get structured outdoor time, enrichment activities, and a calm, balanced environment — not just a place to sleep,” O’Kelly said.

O’ Kelly will also offer workshops on topics such as nutrition and training.

HHH Canine Lodge & Ranch is open and ready for guests.

To contact HHH and ask about services, visit www.hunkyhoundhandlers.com and fill out the contact form to register or call or text 959-227-9013.

Robin Roraback
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