Our Story
Our Best Friends Deserve The Best
Our journey started just like yours—searching for a dog daycare near Columbus, Ohio that felt right. Not just convenient. Not just clean. But truly good for our dogs.
We tried a few.
At one, our pup spent most of the day in a kennel. He came home full of pent-up energy and frustration.
At another, he was in “all-day free play.” He came home filthy, exhausted, and sometimes scraped up.
Sound familiar?
And after a long day at work, the last thing anyone wants is to wash a muddy dog—or worry they got into a scuffle.
We asked ourselves:
Why is the standard for dog care so low... when we love them so much?
A Smarter, Safer Approach
In a great childcare setting, kids follow a rhythm: structured play, learning, rest, and growth.
They’re not confined—but they’re not left to run wild, either.
We thought, shouldn’t our dogs get that same balance?
That’s when we discovered the Enrichment Model. Across the country, trainers and veterinarians were already shifting away from chaotic “free-for-all” play and toward something better.
Enrichment means:
✅ Small, safe playgroups
✅ Activities that engage mind and body
✅ Basic training woven into the daily routine
The result?
Your dog comes home happy-tired, not overdone.
Clean. Content. And maybe a little bit smarter, too.
We launched a small, home-based program during the pandemic. Demand exploded.
By 2022, we left our day jobs and opened Sterling K9 Retreat—a flagship enrichment-based dog daycare built on compassion, structure, and science.
Today, we’re proud to bring a new standard of care to dog families in Westerville and beyond.
What Makes Sterling... Sterling?
We’re not just a place to “drop the dog off.”
We’re a purpose-built retreat designed to nurture, teach, and care for your dog like they’re our own.
Here’s how we raise the bar:
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Bring healthcare-level standards into the K9 industry
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Offer a cleaner, safer, more thoughtful daycare experience
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Build healthy socialization, not chaos
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Compensate our team fairly—they’re skilled professionals
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Offer Ohio something that used to only exist in bigger cities
The Story Behind the Name
When we outgrew “Happy Paws,” we knew we needed a name that reflected who we are and why we do this. That’s when Reilly shared a story that stuck with us all.
In Albion, Michigan, a retired couple owned a cozy bookstore beloved by the community. When they passed it on, the new owners gave it a fresh start—Sterling Books & Brew—blending books, coffee, and space for students to gather and learn.
But during renovations, tragedy struck: a bookshelf collapsed, seriously injuring the wife.
The easy option would’ve been to close.
But they didn’t. The community rallied around them—neighbors, kids, business owners.
They rebuilt. Stronger. Together.
“Sterling” became a symbol: of resilience, community, and love that doesn’t quit.
That’s what we wanted our name to reflect.
Sterling K9 Retreat is Built on That Spirit
When your dog walks through our doors, they’re not just enrolled in daycare.
They’re joining a place built on care, trust, and the belief that our best friends deserve the very best.
And if you’re ever in Albion, stop by Sterling Books & Brew.
Tell them Sterling K9 Retreat sent you.
Coming Story
Building Sterling from Concept to function!
Book with Our App!
With our unique services, your pet gets extra special care.
See all options, book reservations, and view digital report cards—
download the Gingr for Pet Parents app today!
Use code: 580017
