When Carolyn Hamilton opened Stonington Kennels, Inc. in 1978, she was realizing a life- long goal.
‘It’s dreams that have come true,? Hamilton said.
Though the kennel has been around for 28 years, Hamilton has been a part of the community for almost 40 years,
She started the kennel after finding herself in need of a job that would also allow her to spend time with her kids.
‘I had three little kids at home and wanted to be at home with them,? Hamilton said.
Drawing upon her years of experience’she had been training dogs since 1948 and grooming them since the age of 13 ‘she hit upon the idea of a kennel,
‘Taking care of and working with animals has always been my greatest interest, and I found it would allow me to be stay-at-home mom too,? said Hamilton.
What sets Stonington Kennels? located in Goodrich, just 2 miles north of Ortonville? apart from their competition is that it is the only licensed facility in Michigan where the kennel is attached to a home.
Living with in the same building as the kennel gives Hamilton the ability to provide 24 hour care, all without leaving her house.
‘I can go down there in my pajamas and check on the dogs,? Hamilton said.
Another aspect of the kennel Hamilton takes particular pride in is the way she and her staff try to ensure the dogs are not only safe, but enjoying themselves as well.
This, in turn, said Hamilton, results in a better time had by the dogs and their owners.
‘People have to feel good about the people taking care of their dogs or they’ll have a worrisome vacation,? Hamilton said.
In addition to boarding dogs, Stonington also offers grooming services and has large accommodations available for the boarding of cats.
Stonington is licensed to board up to 100 dogs at a time and offers both a bedroom area and an outdoor space for each dog.
Hamilton said she is working hard to make sure the pets consider Stonington as their vacation home.
Ultimately, the thing that makes Stonington Kennels such a pleasant experience for both pet and owner is Hamilton’s love for her business.
‘Life has been great,? said Hamilton. ‘I am a very lucky person.?