The story behind a different kind of dog daycare.
Hi, I'm Stephanie
I started The K9 Hangout because I wanted to create the kind of dog care I believe more dogs deserve — smaller, more personal, and built around the individual dog.
​
My experience with dogs started in rescue, where I’ve fostered more than 15 dogs with different personalities, histories, and needs. It taught me early on that not every dog experiences the world the same way — and their care shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all either.
​
That’s why I keep groups small and introductions thoughtful. I want the time to notice who your dog enjoys, what makes them comfortable, when they need space, and what helps them settle in.
​
Some dogs come in ready to make friends. Others need time. Some would rather coexist than play — and that’s completely okay here.
The goal isn’t to turn your dog into a social butterfly. It’s to give them a place where they can feel understood, cared for, and comfortable being themselves.
What Makes us Different
THE HANGOUT YOUR WAY METHOD™
MEET & GREET
I get to know your dog, their history, and what they may need to feel comfortable.
FIRST DAY
They experience the routine, the environment, rest time, and other dogs without being rushed.
MEETING THE CREW
Introductions happen gradually, one dog at a time.
FINDING THEIR SPOT
Play isn’t the only measure of success. Comfort, relaxing, exploring, and coexistence count too.
THE DOGGY 411
You get honest observations about how they settled in, who they connected with, what they enjoyed, and what I learned.
Every dog deserves care that meets them where they are.
​
I don’t believe a successful daycare day has to mean nonstop play or making friends with every dog. Sometimes success looks like finding a favorite playmate. Sometimes it’s exploring, relaxing nearby, or simply feeling comfortable enough to be themselves.
​
My goal is to create a place where your dog feels safe, understood, and cared for as an individual — while giving you the confidence of knowing they’re with someone who’s paying attention.
MEET My PACK
Nala
Smart, lovable, stubborn, and endlessly patient — she keeps the pack in check and makes sure everyone follows the rules.
Harley
​Harley joined us not long after Nala. He was abandoned at the training facility where Nala was doing her board and train, and once the two bonded, I couldn’t leave him behind. Harley has faced major medical challenges, including surgery and cancer treatment, but his strength and sweet nature inspire me every day.
Bailey
Bailey, my first “foster fail,” came all the way from Korea. What started as a temporary foster turned into forever the moment I met her — she instantly fit right in and completed our little pack.
Whether your dog is nervous, selective, slow to warm up, or simply does better in a smaller group, we’d love to get to know them and see if The K9 Hangout is the right fit.