About Penozu

Penozu pet boarding facility

Our Story

Penozu opened its doors in 2015 when founder Sarah Mitchell recognized a gap in Toronto's pet care market. After struggling to find suitable boarding for her two rescue dogs during a family emergency, she decided to create a facility that treats animals with the same care she would provide at home.

Starting with a modest 2,000 square foot space on Shaw Street, we now operate a 6,500 square foot facility equipped with climate-controlled suites, outdoor play areas, and a dedicated grooming station. Our team has grown from three staff members to fifteen certified animal care professionals.

Professional pet care at Penozu

What We Do

We provide overnight boarding and daycare services for dogs and cats in a home-like environment. Each animal receives individual attention based on their temperament, dietary needs, and exercise requirements. Our staff includes three veterinary technicians who monitor health conditions and administer medications when needed.

The facility features separate areas for different animal sizes and temperaments. Dogs enjoy four daily outdoor sessions in our fenced yard, while cats have access to multi-level climbing structures and window perches. We maintain a 1:6 staff-to-animal ratio during peak hours.

8+ Years Operating
15 Certified Staff Members
3,200+ Animals Cared For Annually

Our Approach

We believe animals thrive when their routine remains consistent. That's why we ask detailed questions about feeding schedules, favorite toys, and behavioral quirks during intake. This information guides our daily care plans.

Safety protocols include health screening for all incoming animals, secure double-door entry systems, and 24-hour video monitoring. We require current vaccination records and conduct temperament assessments before accepting new clients.

Transparency

Daily photo updates sent to owners via email. Open facility tours available during business hours without appointment.

Qualified Care

All staff complete Pet First Aid certification and ongoing training in animal behavior recognition.

Clean Environment

Suites sanitized between guests using veterinary-grade disinfectants. HEPA air filtration throughout the building.

Community Focus

Partner with Toronto Animal Services and local rescue organizations to support animal welfare initiatives.

Our Guest Stories

Every pet that stays with us has a unique experience. From playful puppies to senior cats, we provide specialized environments that match their needs. Browse through recent stays to see how we care for different animals.

Golden Retriever boarding
Dogs

Max's Summer Vacation

A 3-year-old Golden Retriever spent two weeks with us while his family traveled to Europe. Max enjoyed daily swimming sessions in our outdoor pool, participated in group play with other retrievers, and received grooming services twice during his stay.

Persian cat luxury suite
Cats

Luna's Luxury Suite Experience

Luna, a 5-year-old Persian cat, stayed in our premium suite for 10 days. She had access to a private climbing tower, heated window perch overlooking the garden, and received daily brushing sessions to maintain her coat. Her owner received photo updates every evening.

Senior dog care
Dogs

Buddy's Senior Care Program

Buddy, a 12-year-old Labrador with arthritis, required specialized attention during his month-long stay. We provided orthopedic bedding, administered medications twice daily, gentle hydrotherapy sessions three times per week, and adjusted his diet according to veterinary recommendations.

Rabbit boarding facility
Exotic Pets

Thumper's Garden Retreat

Thumper, a Holland Lop rabbit, enjoyed our specialized small animal area for one week. His enclosure included fresh hay daily, a variety of vegetables, safe chew toys, and supervised outdoor time in our secure garden run where he could hop freely on natural grass.

Multiple cats boarding
Cats

The Smith Family Cats

Three sibling cats stayed together in our family suite for two weeks. The bonded trio had a multi-level room with separate feeding stations, multiple litter boxes, and various enrichment activities. Keeping them together reduced stress and maintained their established social dynamic.

Puppy socialization program
Dogs

Bella's Puppy Training Stay

Bella, a 6-month-old Border Collie puppy, participated in our training-inclusive boarding program for one week. She attended basic obedience classes, socialized with age-appropriate dogs, practiced crate training, and learned leash manners through daily structured walks around our facility grounds.

Why Pet Owners Choose Penozu

Our boarding facility combines professional care with a home-like atmosphere. We understand that leaving your companion requires trust, which is why we focus on safety, comfort, and individual attention for every guest.

Live Video Access

Check on your companion anytime through our secure camera system. Parents receive login credentials to view their pets in play areas and rest zones throughout the day, providing peace of mind while you're away.

Veterinary Partnership

Our facility works directly with licensed veterinarians in Toronto. Staff members are trained in basic first aid, and we maintain protocols for medication administration and health monitoring during each stay.

Flexible Scheduling

We accommodate various drop-off and pick-up times to match your travel plans. Extended hours during weekdays and Saturday availability make it convenient for working families and those with early flights or late arrivals.

Home-Style Suites

Each accommodation features raised beds, climate control, and natural lighting. Suites range from 32 to 64 square feet, with options for shared or private spaces based on your pet's socialization preferences and size requirements.

Outdoor Play Areas

Dogs enjoy supervised sessions in our 2,500 square foot fenced yard with artificial turf and shade structures. We organize activities based on size and energy levels, ensuring safe interaction and adequate exercise for all guests.

Daily Health Reports

Receive updates about your companion's eating habits, activity levels, and bathroom routines. Our team documents any changes in behavior or appetite, allowing you to stay informed and address concerns promptly if needed.

Custom Meal Plans

Bring your pet's regular food or choose from our selection of premium brands. We follow specific feeding schedules and portion sizes, accommodate dietary restrictions, and can prepare fresh meals for guests with special nutritional needs.

Safety Protocols

All guests must provide current vaccination records before their first stay. Our facility maintains separate areas for different species, uses secure double-door entry systems, and conducts regular safety inspections of all equipment and spaces.

Penozu By The Numbers

Our commitment to animal care is reflected in measurable results. These figures represent real outcomes from our boarding facility in Toronto.

6
Years Established
since 2018
420+
Pets Boarded
annually in Toronto
94%
Return Rate
repeat clients
9
Care Specialists
certified staff
24
Private Suites
climate controlled
24/7
Supervision
on-site monitoring
4.8
Average Rating
from 280+ reviews
3
Play Areas
outdoor & indoor
22°C
Optimal Temperature
maintained year-round
16
Security Cameras
full coverage
98%
Medication Compliance
tracked daily
2
Transport Vehicles
pickup available
5
Industry Certifications
Canadian standards
3x
Daily Cleaning
sanitization protocol
15min
Response Time
average callback
$2M
Liability Coverage
fully insured