Jenny Kressin’s House of Dogs Provides The Things Canines Love

A business catering to all-things canine has relocated to Antigo’s north side, with some expanded services as well.

Jenny’s House of Dogs, owned by Jenny Kressin, offers dog training, grooming, massage and now doggie day care to the furry set from offices at 29773 Hwy. 45 North, formerly Pampered Pet.

“People really have changing attitudes about their dogs,” Kressin, who moved to the Antigo area from Racine several years ago, “They are becoming more and more part of the family. They are like furry children to some people.”

Kressin hosts group and private lessons for everything from puppy and basic training to Canine Good Citizen and therapy dogs. Bird hunting classes are also available and behavioral issues can be addressed as well.

And more and more dogs and owners are experiencing the fun of agility training.

“Training really helps dogs,” Kressin said. “And agility is great for high-energy animals. I’ve literally seen a dog who is so destructive turn around thanks to agility training.”

Grooming is available for both dogs and cats, Kressin said, and there are seasonal spa specials.

“We had quite a few people who get their dogs’ nails painted for the holidays,” she said.

Dog massage is also growing in popularity, she said, offering benefits for Fido including decreased stiffness, increased circulation and better athletic performance.

“It’s great for older dogs that may have arthritis, or those with injuries such as hip dysphasia,” Kressin said. “It makes them feel like a puppy again.”

A recent, very popular option, is doggy day care, available Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost is $15 for a half day and $30 for a full day, with discounts available for those who purchase punch cards in advance.

“It’s especially good for young, high-energy dogs,” Kressin said. “They can get out and play with other dogs and with toys. It’s great for socializing. Pretty much every dog who comes to doggy day care has a blast.”

Knowing their dog is in good hands instead of cooped up at home or alone in a kennel is also reassuring for owners, she added.

Overnight dog-sitting is also available.

“It’s an option for people going on trips,” Kressin said. “Instead of a boarding kennel, the dog is part of the family. They get to play and wrestle with other dogs.”

Kressin, who also directs the 4-H dog obedience program, offers regular specials as well. This afternoon, bring your dog or cat in for a pet portrait between 3 and 6:30 p.m., with half of the proceeds going to the dog project. Slots are available every 15 minutes. Call 715 627-2626 for an appointment.

There will be an Easter egg and dog bone hunt on March 22, again with half of the proceeds earmarked for the dog project.

Kressin’s dream of owning her own dog training and grooming business became a reality in part to Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation, a statewide economic development corporation whose mission is to provide opportunity to underserved individuals. Through a referral from Langlade County Economic Development Corporation, the organization was able to supply technical assistance and a small business loan.

“I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with Langlade County Economic Development and WWBIC,” Kressin said. “They were willing to help me and make my dream come true.”

For information, tours and prices on the various training classes, grooming and other services at Jenny’s House of Dogs, call 715 627-2616, visit Kressin’s website at www.jennyshouseofdogs.com.

“Dogs love coming here,” Kressin said.

Jenny Kressin and Dixie, her longtime companion and therapy dog, pose with some of the canines who take advantage of the doggy day care program at Jenny’s House of Dogs.