Affiliations
Playful Pups Retreat is proud to be certified and affiliated with the following industry-leading pet care organizations.
Certified Professional Animal Care Operator (CPACO)
The Certified Professional Animal Care Operator designation is awarded to those who have successfully completed the independent testing and certification program available through the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC). The purpose of the CPACO program is to elevate professional standards, recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge essential for the care of animals, and help pet parents identify skilled, knowledgeable animal care operators. Laurie Yost, owner of Playful Pups Retreat is proud to be one of only a select few in the state of PA with this designation.
Dog Gurus Member
The Dog Gurus is the #1 pet care business consulting and staff-training company! The business owners have 40+ combined years of experience to help pet business owners launch and grow successful businesses.
Dog Gurus Safety Pledge
The Dog Gurus' Safety Pledge includes 10 requirements for safe, off-leash play in your facility. By signing the pledge, we have committed to the safety of all our canine guests and staff.
International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA), Member
The International Boarding & Pet Services Association is a professional business association that provides business resources, industry expertise, staff education and training, certifications, and legislative support for the pet care services industry. IBPSA Members include the owners and employees of pet boarding and daycare facilities, groomers, dog walkers, pet sitters, veterinarians, trainers, and holistic care pet care providers.
Pro Pet Hero Pet First Aid Training
Our team is certified in pet first aid skills, health care and wellness and well as pet CPR through the Pro Pet Hero Pet first aid training program.
Catch Training Academy
Maria at our Hershey Road location is a certified dog trainer after completing CATCH Canine Trainers Academy's comprehensive dog training program. CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy offers core skills, workshops, masterclasses, and everything else you need to become a successful dog trainer. Maria also owns Full Potential Dog Training and is available for your private training needs. Look her up at www.fullpotentialdogtraining.com
Voted Winner of the LNP Reader’s Choice Award since 2017 and Best of Lancaster in 2024
Since 2017, Playful Pups Retreat has proudly been voted the Winner of the LNP Reader’s Choice Awards every year, recognized in categories such as Dog Kennel, Dog Daycare, and Dog Training. In 2024, we added another prestigious accolade to our list of achievements, being named a recipient of the Best of Lancaster Award. These awards reflect the exceptional level of care and dedication we provide to every dog and pet parent who chooses Playful Pups Retreat.
The Fear Free Boarding & Daycare Certification
The Fear Free Boarding & Daycare certification is awarded to individual pet care professionals who have completed a comprehensive educational course and exam which is designed to ease fear, anxiety, and stress that some pets experience when away from home. This certification program teaches professionals how to utilize positive methods to ensure that the boarding and daycare experience is as enjoyable as possible for every pet, every time.
