Thank you for visiting our pages. If you would like to post comments about our kennel please email them to pets@matthewskennels.com we would love to hear from you!
Thank you for taking such great care of our dogs. Cooper and Simon are completely un-traumatized from their stay at your kennel. I thought they might be a little freaked out (I thought Simon for sure) but they are the exact same as if nothing ever happened. I can’t tell you how impressed I am with that and relieved that I have a place to bring them when I go away.
I really like Kelly as well that works with you, she is great, really pays attention to the dogs and deserves a compliment on her people and dog skills!
We really appreciate the extra things you did for them such as putting them close to the door and next to a quiet dog, very thoughtful. Now I know why your kennel has such an excellent reputation.
Thanks again, enjoy your summer, and we’ll see you again for sure!
Amy Malin
Wed, Jul 14, 2010 at 9:10 AM
Once again Dakota was impressed with his visit to camp. His excitement starts even before we turn into the laneway. We always appreciate the great care you provide for our best buddy.
Dorothy & Ray
Thursday, December 3, 2009 at 17:52
Bailey and Peekachu wanted to say thank you for the great care they got while we were on holidays. Said they ate well, excercised a whole lot and slept great. In fact they tell me to take holidays more often,so they can go to the SPA!!!! As always, You did a fantastic job with my kids. Thanks again,expect to see us in August!(if not sooner,these two are begging to go back to the great kennels with the great runs,and really loving dog people).
Laurie Neale-O'Connell
Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at 13:12
I was very anxious to leave my little man with a kennel after having family take care of him for five years but I felt very much at ease leaving him at Matthews Kennels. Deb and Mel treated Hercules as if he was one of their very own and it is truly appreciated by his parents. Plus, Hercules appreciates the roomy kennel space and the green grass to walk on.
Thanks!
Shelley P
Thursday, April 10, 2008 at 17:29
Thanks so much for all the care and attention. I can always leave Sweep with you knowing that she is in the best of hands.
Marjorie
Thursday, January 24, 2008 at 13:39
Wanted to take a quick minute to say Thank you for the fabulous care my three dogs received while I was away. They looked great,were well fed, and were quite happy to have us home again. You did a wonderful job taking care of them,and I will certainly be booking with you again.
Laurie Neale
Thursday, December 27, 2007 at 10:34
We were very impressed by the Matthews
kennels.....so clean and comfortable for the doggie guests. Our
dog Sophie had been at a kennel a number of times, but she
is very anxious about being left. Deb and Mel took great
care with her and she came home happy....and there was no need
to bath her!
Thank-you for your patience...
Margie Durrant
Wednesday, October 17, 2007 at 21:10:35
Once again our precious Darby was given the best of care by Mel and Deb. They even took her to the groomer for us(our groomer had cancelled at the last minute) We have had no qualms about leaving Darby for extended periods of time. She had never been boarded until she was eleven years old ,so naturally we were nervous. Darby has been with Mel and Deb at least five times in the last two years and they have been wonderful with her. Thanks again- we can travel without worrying. Dan Janet and Darby!!!
Janet Plunkett
Sunday, July 29, 2007 at 08:28:42
We have been boarding our two Goldens with Matthews Kennels for years and have only good things to report. Our dogs are extremely well cared for and are quite excited when they arrive at the kennel. We are always confident when we are away that our babies are being well taken care of and we are very grateful for this great care from Mel and Deb.
Anne Sevigny
Stittsville, Ont - Thursday, July 19, 2007 at 09:51:25
Lots of thanks to the lovely ladies who look after our English Springer Spaniel "Abbey". She is a huge handful. I would book her no where else. She always receives lots of exercise and attention while she is there and they treat her like one of their own dogs. They always ensure that all her special dietary needs are met and are always flexible with my husband and my hectic schedule despite their posted drop off /pick up times. I would and have highly recommended them to all my friends and clients as a veterinary technician.
Sabrina Dawson
Ottawa, Ont -
Tuesday, June 26, 2007 at 08:07:28
Thanks Mel and Deb for taking such good
care of me. Thanks
for buying that swimming pool as well. I overheard my mistress
say that she was going to lift me up and put me in next time
I visit so I guess I'm being voluntold once again to do stuff. (Actually
I like water so I won't mind going for a little paddle.
Thanks again and see you soon. Love Sweep!
Marjorie Ward
Richmond, Ont -
Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at 12:08:25
Hey guys,
Been a long time! I just recommended you to a person on Facebook, and thought I'd stop by and say hello. Glad to see you're doing well and the place looks great. Homer is doing well and says hi! He still reminisces about his stay at Matthews kennels (probably not fondly as he is not too fond of dogs!) but he is glad you could take care of him for those few weeks. Hope you two are keeping well.
Take care and thanks again for taking Homer.
Darren
Darren Shelvey
Ottawa, Ont - Monday, June 18, 2007 at 18:56:27
I can't remember who told us about Mel & Deb now,
but am I ever grateful to them! We had always had willing family
and friends who watched Bessie, our sweet but dumb Beagle mix. When
we added K.C., our too smart for anybody's good Jack Russell
mix, it suddenly became a little harder! The trips to Mel & Deb's
Holiday Resort began for the girls. They were able to stay
in the same amply-sized enclosure and exercise together and
were always perfectly happy when we returned. This was
particularly good news with Bessie, as she suffered extreme separation
anxiety from mistreatment early in her life and was already 10
when we left her for the first time. She did wonderfully and
was always willing when we went back. When Bessie died
suddenly at age 13, Mel & Deb sent condolences and
gave a donation to the veterinary college on her behalf. We
were very touched by that. Thank you ladies for your competence
and caring of both pets and people!
Christine Hywarren
Ottawa, Ont - Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 08:23:22
We just moved to Ottawa with our 3 (very active) Vizslas
and our English Setter. Finding a good kennel is difficult
at the best of times, but finding one that can deal with very
active dogs who are used to, and need, lots of love and affection
is tough. We were lucky someone referred us to Mel & Deb.
Mel took great care of our dogs when we left them with her in
February. She didn't mind our phone calls and emails to
see how they were. I now know that Mel takes at least as
good care of them as I do myself (and possibly better!).
Thanks Mel!
Lorraine Stillaway
Ottawa, Ont -
Wednesday, March 28, 2007 at 13:19:08
I only send my Sweep (see black Border
Collie Cross in 2006 Christmas pics) to the best place when
I go away. Mel and
Deb take great care of her so I have no worries.
This web site is really professional and full of interesting
items and information. I check in on a regular basis.
Thanks, Mel and Deb!
Marjorie Ward
Richmond, Ont - Monday, March 5, 2007 at 08:41:07
Hi! enjoyed your site. Very professional and user-friendly sort of a mirror image of your kennel. I was very impressed by your warmth and caring attitude towards both the animals and their owners when i visited. Yours is the best facility I have ever seen. You treat your guests as members of your own family and they flourish rather than languish while away from their fa millar environment.
Best regards,
Jude
Innisville, Ont - Saturday, March 3, 2007 at 05:52:33
We have a very spoiled dog, Dakota, and
we have been to many kennels in the past. None of them compare to Matthews Kennels! The
way he is treated there sometimes I wonder if he would rather
stay there when we go and pick him up. Deb and Mel and
wonderful hearts, and they treat all of the dogs like their own!
Kristen Scharf
Kemptville, Ont - Thursday, February 15, 2007 at 08:48:36
Just a note of thanks and appreciation
to Melody and Debbie who took excellent care of our dog "Sophie." Her
stay at Mathews Kennels while we were on vacation gave us peace
of mind while we were gone as we new she was under the supervision
of personable, responsible care givers, with a personal touch,
and compassion for dogs as any dog lover feels for their own. They
kept contact via email to keep a line of communication open between
us in case of emergency and extended hospitality and good answers
to all our questions and concerns. Thanks again, with excellent
recommendation and reference upon request.
Sincerely,
Shawn
Shawn Riopelle
Renfrew, Ont - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at 15:07:39
Well, if you read my previous comments, you know that
I was about to go on a Caribbean Cruise and leave Jesse, my
14 year old Bichon Frise with Deb & Mel for two weeks for
the first time. The cruise was fabulous but let me tell
you that Jesse was even more fabulous. He followed Mel
around like a puppy. He looked five years younger, was
as clean as if he had just come from the groomer, never missed
a meal or his medication and had the energy of a dog I hadn't
known in five years. It was obvious when he got home
that he was depressed and missed the daily interaction with
Deb & Mel. So, along came a business trip and back
went Jesse for another four days. His cage was ready
and he went right to the yard and had a run. I could
see the look in his face - free again! Thank you Deb & Mel
for giving Jesse and I a little bit of peace of mind freedom
every once in awhile.
Lynne Irwin
Lanark, Ont Canada - Friday, January 26, 2007 at 10:37:59
Hi Mel & Deb,
Thanks for sending those pictures of Sydney. You two run a
fantastic kennel - we call it "camp". Sydney absolutely loves his stays with
you & your other guests. He somehow knows when he's going and
gets very excited. We've used your kennel for several stays already
and are looking forward to next march break. It's peace of mind
knowing that he is very well cared for. You two run an outstanding
and professional business and the personal attention that you give
to Kristan & I & Sydney is much appreciated. See you soon
for future visits!
Doug Herbert
I spent 6 years alone with my Bichon Frise, Jesse
and never left him with anyone. Then I married 8 years ago and only left him with my husband
when I was hospitalized for 2 weeks. No one could take care of him
- I thought. Boy, was I wrong! I have an opportunity to go on
an all expense paid 10 day Caribbean Cruise this New Years. I haven't
been away in 30 years and my husband and I have never been away. So
the trial started at the Matthews Kennels who were highly recommended by
a fellow coworker. You can eat off the floors and I think I even saw
my reflection in them. Mel and Deb work endlessly and tirelessly to
ensure that each pet is treated for their special needs with love and kindness. They
personally attend to each pet 4 times a day instead of pulling up a trap
door and expecting them to go out on cue. They get exercise, music,
cartoons and believe me, it is like a playdate for Jesse. I have full confidence
in these no nonsense ladies who tell it like it is. That instills
trust - the most important factor in giving me peace of mind. I always
know now, without reservation, that Jesse has a second home with
people who love him, whenever it is needed!
Lynne Irwin
Lanark, Ont Canada - Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at 09:10:10
Your kennel is the best, I like the personal attention that you take with
my dog, playing ball with him, he just loves it . I know while he's there
he has a great time.
Martine Buissart
Arden, Ont Canada - Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 18:48:14
I love this Kennel, it's fantastic! My dog had alot of fun. I really
think she had a great time with all of the other dogs that where
there. Of all of the other kennels that I have put my dog in
you guys are definitely the best!!
Thanks.
Margo
Ottawa, Ont Canada - Wednesday, July 12, 2006 at 11:08:44
I didn't realize that it was possible for people to
run a kennel like this. The
kennel that I had previously kept my Annie at, as soon as I showed up they
whisked her away so fast that I didn't even get to say, "Good-bye!" and
I was never given a chance to see where she was kept. The ladies at
Matthews kennels spent probably an hour with me between the pre-stay visit
and when I actually dropped Annie off explaining to me how they were going
to look after her, understanding my preferences and Annie's special needs
(she recently had orthopedic surgery), and making sure I was comfortable
with everything. It's such an amazing feeling when you can leave your
dog behind and not have to worry every minute that they're being neglected. I
have a couple more business trips over the summer and I'm so glad
I found Matthews Kennels to take care of my Annie.
Jessica Heath
Ottawa, Ont Canada - Wednesday, May 31, 2006 at 15:03:37
When I was looking for a kennel for Buster, Matthews
Kennels was referred to me. Like trying to find a good babysitter for your children, a
kennel for your pets is as important. The first thing I did was go
to their web site. I was very impressed with what I read. I went to
their guestbook and found names of friends that had taken their pets here. When
I made that first phone call to have a visit, I realized that the owners
where ladies I knew from past careers. I went for that initial visit
and was sold on the place. Everything that was said on their website
was true.
Matthews Kennels is a remarkable vacation spot for your pets. Deb
and Mel are very caring and treat each pet as if it were their
own. For the number of vacationers they take in, the place is very clean. I
would recommend Matthews Kennels to anyone who is looking for a
place to board their pets.
Buster loves it there. I had/have him book in for at least five/six
times in 2006. I would not take him to any other kennel. If
I cannot take him to Matthews, I change my plans.
Thank you Mel and Deb for such a wonderful home away from home.
Rose Bjorkstedt
Ashton, Ont Canada - Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at 08:12:12
Matthews Kennels came highly recommended by friends but we were
still nervous. The idea of a pre-visit is a great way to alleviate those
nerves. Simba enjoyed both the visit and her stay. No question about where
Simba wants to go on her next holiday.
Thank you from Jill, Ross, Lisa, Matthew and of course Simba
Jill Velenosi
Stittsville, Ont Canada - Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 12:34:15
Thanks again! This was Mac's first time in a kennel and you made it very
easy for him and for us! Mac seemed like he had a great time and we had
no problems's when he came home. We will definetly use Matthews Kennels
again.
Melonea Kelly
Ottawa, Ont Canada - Wednesday, April 26, 2006 at 12:14:21
When it comes to our pets I am very well known by my friends as Mr. fussy.
Having a VERY bad experience quite some time ago I swore that I would NEVER
leave my pets with ANY kennel from that point on. If I couldn't get friends
to look after my pets I would not go on vacation.
Now after 14 years or so, the time came that I would have to make
the decision to board or not as I could not get any of my friends to look
after Phantom and Barlee. We were all going on vacation around the same
time..... go figure
I started to look for a kennel and with the guidance from above
I came across Matthew's Kennels. I visited Deb and Mel, checked out their
operation (by the way, it is very impressive). I really had a good feeling
that Deb and Mel were fantastic with animals, had plenty of experience,
and so I decided to leave Barlee and Phantom with them for a weekend to
see how they would make out.
Once the weekend came for me to leave Barlee & Phantom at Mathews, when
I left the kennel, I cried, Phantom cried, Barlee cried and when
I returned the next day (still crying and early of course) they
were both glad to see me BUT I was amazed that they both were very
relaxed around Mel and Deb. That tells me that my pets were looked after
like no one else has ever done.
Mel and Deb are the BEST and they are the most reliable, considerate,
and caring people I have met. I would definitely leave my pets with them
at any time and would encourage others as well. This kennel, Mel and Deb
are the BEST by FAR.
We have had Barlee and Phantom back twice now and one stay was
for ten days (yea I still left crying). Both Barlee and Phantom came back
home looking, smelling, and as healthy as when they left.
I can't believe I have finally found a place that we can take our
children and know they will have the BEST care.
Thank you so MUCH Deb and Mel
Mr Fussy, Jim, Barlee, & Phantom
Ottawa, ON Canada - Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 13:56:11
Once again we are very pleased with the
care our precious Darby received at Matthew's Kennels. Darby
is 10 years old and had never been boarded until last Sept
when we were going to Hawaii for 3 weeks. She was so contented
that we didn't think twice about leaving her again in Feb for
3 weeks when we went to Florida. Both times she has returned
home happily without any problems. She is such a baby that
we know she was very well taken care of. Thank you so much!What
a wonderful kennel or should I say "Doggie
Spa""
Janet Plunkett
Nepean, Ont Canada - Thursday, March 9, 2006, at 14:28:33
Mel and Deb and their operation are FANTASTIC. Lexi loves
their homey, friendly, personal style and their "treats" of
course. Knowing she is in excellent, caring hands allows us
to have relaxed holidays. If there is any way any request can
be accommodated, it will be. They go "above and beyond".
Peggy, Dave, Tyler and Lexi say "Thanks"
peggy blackwell
richmond, ont Canada - Wednesday, February 01, 2006 at 06:25:29
Your website looks great, and the photo album is alot of
fun. Syd always is happy to go to Mel and Deb's kennel and
we really appreciate the care she receives. Good luck in 2006.
Susan W
North Gower, ON Canada - Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at 16:21:55 (CST)
I never hesitate to leave Diesel in the care of Mel and Deb. It is great to go on vacation knowing he is in great hands.
Jennifer Jamieson
Stittsville, Ont Canada - Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at 14:54:10 (CST)
Our good ol' girl, Roxy (13 yr old Dalmation), has been going to Mel & Deb's "camp" for almost 5 years now and she always comes back very, very happy and re-energized! Thanks for your love for Roxy and for all of the other dogs/puppies that stay with you!
Dabrowka
Ottawa, ON Canada - Monday, January 16, 2006 at 20:21:53 (CST)
Great website Ladies! and yes, wonderful pictures of Bogart. To anyone who is wondering if this is a good place for your dog to stay, I'll let you know that Bogart chose it himself. We had gone to two other kennels, looking for the right spot, and he had run to the car from both of them. When we came to Mel & Deb's place, I had a hard time convincing him it was time to come home! Think of it as puppy camp - swimming pool, tennis (well the balls, anyway), treats, TV, radio, constant attention...it's a resort for dogs. One time, when I was away for a week, Bogart became very ill. Not only did Mel and Deb take him to the vet (several times), but they had him all cleaned up and groomed for me to take home. They kept me up to date with how he was and I realized that he was getting 24 hr care that even if I was home, I would not have been able to give him. Yes, it's a great, safe, place for your baby.
Janet Mackenzie
Richmond, Ont Canada - Thursday, January 12, 2006 at 19:05:17 (CST)
Both Mel and Deb would agree...our little Molly is special. Before finding these amazing ladies we could only leave Molly with family and that is not always convenient. She is very nervous around strangers but Mel and Deb have been fabulous with her. It is easy to take care of a dog that is friendly and loves people but it takes real skill, love and dedication to take care of dog like Molly. We love her dearly and know that Mel and Deb are an extension of our family! Thank you so much for all you do for her and us! The Website is awesome! Just like the two of you! Happy 2006 .... you know we will be seeing you soon. P.S. I have to say it....$15.00 a day is a bargain for the care you provide!
Donna Howell
Appleton, On Canada - Thursday, January 12, 2006 at 07:43:37 (CST)
You are the best. Barkley and Honeybun always love their time at the "Spa". The thing that I always appreciate is that my dogs come back home relaxed,clean and fit. Every other place we have sent them they come home stressed and dirty. I know that when I am away you look after my guys as if they are your own. Keep up the good work and thank you for all your care.
Mark Bruce
Nepean, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 19:27:38 (CST)
Hi Mel & Deb, great website. You guys are the best!
I wouldn't leave my three sibe heads with anyone else. I know they are getting excellent care & they
always love their visits:) A million thanks! Lynn
Lynn
Prospect, Ontario Canada - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 12:14:47 (CST)
You guys were great with Peyote. When ever I would drive by the kennel, he'd get all excited. He loved going there. It's hard to believe he's been gone for a year and a half. I'll be seeing you this spring with my new pup Draco.
Tammy Lane
Ottawa, On Canada - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 11:51:13 (CST)
You know your dog is in good hands when you're the one leaving with a feeling of separation anxiety! Thanks Deb and Mel for giving Jake all the comforts of home!
Tanya
Franktown, On Canada - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at 08:50:12 (CST)
Hey Mel and Deb. Happy New Year and congratulations on your sixth year in business! Your new website is great and our dogs have always enjoyed the amenities of your excellent boarding facility. See you soon :)
Martha & Arnie
Carleton Place, ON Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 18:04:04 (CST)
Great idea setting up the guestbook. Kim and I have used Matthews kennels since they took over from Wilf and we would not leave Cody with anyone else We highly reccommend Mel and Deb. They give fantastic care. Cheers
Kim and Kim
Prospect, Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 17:46:13 (CST)
We recently had the task of trying to find a kennel for our 1.5 year old shepherd Baron who is really an important part of our family. As we were travelling for 13 days around Christmas we were nervous about leaving him for such a lengthy time but when we found Deb and Mel we were immediately at ease. They recommended a couple of overnight stays prior to our longer trip in an effort to get Baron comfortable with the idea of us leaving and then returning and that worked out great. He really seemed to love his stay and was happy and content when we returned after our 13 day absence. Thank you both for taking such great care of him. We were able to enjoy our vacation knowing that he was being well taken care of and loved as he would have been if he had been at home.
Sherry Saunders
Richmond, Ontario Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 17:32:45 (CST)
I didn't think it was possible to leave Bentley overnight anywhere without worrying about him every second...BUT was I ever wrong! Mel & Deb were recommended to me, and after the 1st visit, I knew they would love Bentley as much as I do. I feel so secure when I leave Bentley at the Matthew's doggie resort! I never have to worry about him because I know he is well cared for and given plenty of hugs & kisses to make him happy! You gals are the best! Thank You for providing such a warm and loving environment for our basset Bentley...Sincerely, Bentley's mom & dad... Lots of puppylicks!
Scott, Tracy & Bentley
Kanata, ON Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 16:07:36 (CST)
This place is 'Dog Heaven'. We have three dogs and every once in a while need to board them. Have you ever been away on a holiday in the back of your mind you keep wondering how your babies are making out? Call Mel and Deb and your worries are over! Seriously, one of our dogs is very timid and we wondered how he would make out. When we went over to check the place out, all 3 of them just walked in and felt like they were at home. Even the nervous one --- McCloud, absolutely loved Mel and Deb. We have boarded the dogs a few times and wouldn't go anywhere else. You can go away and enjoy your holiday with complete peace of mind. They even have a baby monitor on in the kennels so they can hear if any disturbance is going on throughout the night. A huge thank you from all of us -- especially Jiggs, McCloud and Princess. Your new site looks fabulous.
Joe & Jacquie
Carleton Place, ON Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 15:18:56 (CST)
Like the new website. Thank you both so much for taking care of our 'Kate' at Christmas - we knew she'd be in good hands and have a great Christmas. Happy 2006, see you in March.
Leslie Sutherland
Richmond, On Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 10:17:53 (CST)
The new site looks great guys! Best of luck to the kennel in 2006!!
Rod Maingot
Vancouver, BC Canada - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at 07:20:31 (CST)
HELEN AND AL HANNA
perth, ont Canada - Tuesday, December 27, 2005 at 05:00:11 (CST)
Thanks so much for looking after Dudley. He was only left one night elsewhere in his ten years and I was nervous about leaving him again but he obviously had great care and was happy. I wouldn't hesitate to leave him with you in the future and will certainly recommend you to others. Thanks so much.
Roz
Ottawa, ON Canada - Wednesday, November 30, 2005 at 18:14:28 (CST)
Jenn & Nigel Emaman
Carleton Place, on Canada - Monday, November 21, 2005 at 09:41:47 (CST)
Raquelle Dupuis
Gloucester, Ont Canada - Thursday, October 20, 2005 at 08:01:15 (CDT)
Kirsten and Jason
Richmond, Canada - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 11:03:03 (EDT)
Tammy Lane
Carleton Place, ON Canada - Friday, March 14, 2003 at 12:47:29 (EST)
Corinne Heybroek-Wyatt
Nepean, Canada - Thursday, January 16, 2003 at 17:21:43 (EST)
Claudette Carignan and Gary Hartmann
Munster, Ont Canada - Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 19:18:26 (EST)
Rachel Maloney
Smiths Falls, Ont Canada - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 15:53:35 (EST)
Lori Sambrook
Canada - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 12:29:41 (EST)
Darlene Power
Smiths Falls, Ont Canada - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 08:27:47 (EST)
Krista
Richmond, Canada - Tuesday, November 26, 2002 at 08:24:23 (EST)
Mary-Ellen Heney
Canada - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 18:22:15 (EST)
Chris Milford
Carleton Place, Ont. Canada - Monday, November 25, 2002 at 15:44:05 (EST)
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