About Happy Dog Acres

Happy Dog Acres is a veteran-owned dog boarding, training, and daycare facility outside Roscommon, Michigan, conveniently located just off of US-127 and I-75, north of Higgins Lake. The Happy Dog Acres property has a rich history as a dog boarding facility since the 1960's. James and Kelly took over in December 2019 and have been working to renovate and update the buildings and kennels. You might see their wolfhounds or their two grown daughters around the farm. Currently the Happy Dog Acres property includes:

• 30 acres
• 4 completely enclosed grass play yards
• 21 temperature-controlled kennels ranging from 16-48 square feet
• 9 outdoor potty yards
• Training barn

We know that it is tough leaving furry friends and family in the care of strangers…especially if it is the first time. Here at Happy Dog, we are dedicated to making sure that all of our guests are able to get the best care which includes a fun, friendly, clean, and safe environment. Our staff are on the property 24-7 and want make your pet feel as at-home as possible. We love dogs, and pride ourselves on the care we provide your dog—each pet is treated just like they are our own.

About Our Staff

Kelly Kendall

Owner and Lead Trainer

Kelly is a life-long animal lover. She is a certified Pro Dog Trainer through Absolute Dogs, and absolutely loves her job! Helping dogs and pet parents to achieve their real-life goals is Kelly's passion!

Kelly and her family have 7 dogs of their own - 3 Irish Wolfhounds, a Labrador Retriever, an Australian Shepherd, and 2 All-American dogs. Each one has their own special characteristics, and she loves hanging out with them! You might see some of them around our farm or on our Facebook page posing, working, training or playing!

James Kendall

Owner and Maintenance Champion

James' specialty at Happy Dog is continually improving our facility and fixing and keeping it amazing and comfortable for all of our guests. He is a licensed builder and has a great vision for Happy Dog. You will also often see him helping to check in and check out dogs, take dogs out to potty, or spending time snuggling with our guests.

You might catch a glimpse of him with his Aussie, Clover, as they zip around the farm on the quad!

Lynne S.

Bather and Training Assistant

Lynne has been working at Happy Dog since Fall 2022. She has both previous grooming and training experience with dogs. She has three dogs of her own: Brubeck, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever; Ellie, a Weimaraner; and Morello, an Australian Shepherd.

In her spare time Lynne likes to help organize and play in community band and big band productions.

Kim P.

Kennel Assistant

Kim has been working at Happy Dog since February 2025. She has two dogs, a lab/golden retriever and a chihuahua/shih tzu, at home. In her spare time she enjoys spending time outdoors and with friends and family.

Stephanie R.

Cleaning Champion

Stephanie started working at Happy Dog Acres in January 2024. She LOVES cleaning and helps out evenings to turn over kennels for the next day. All our guests love to listen as she chats with them in the evening. Treats are always handed out!

Kitty Cat

Chief Pest Control Manager and Kitten Supervisor

Officially named "Elvira," Kitty Cat came from One Love Rescue in Houghton Lake, MI and is very proficient at keeping mice and other pests away from the kennel areas. She is very friendly with humans and likes to meet calm dogs. If you see her (or any of our other kitties) out and about you can say 'hi' if you'd like. If you would like us to put them away momentarily so you can drop off and pick up your dog without the added distraction, just let us know!

Staff is very friendly and professional. They truly care about your dogs. Our pup looks forward to going!

Willa's Dad
Logan