Upon setting foot on El Ranchito de Los Perros, I knew instantly that if I were to be reincarnated as a dog, this spot is where I’d want to live. This place is so incredible that Charlie, Sadie, and Rorie might even leave me to stay here!
Two acres of fenced-in space. Carefully curated plants and landscaping that appeal to a dog’s sense of smell, sight, sound, touch, and taste. Wind chimes and tall natural grasses gently blowing in the breeze. Birds and insects chirping and buzzing. Thoughtfully arranged mowed pathways. Shaded areas with drinking water and a small dog pool. Friendly neighbors who wave and say “hello.” Kim and Doug Lassiter’s El Ranchito de Los Perros in Youngsville is a doggo’s paradise.
Charlie, Sadie, and Rorie loved so many things about this visit but here’s what I think they would want you to know before you consider renting this private haven through Sniffspot.
First, the tall grasses are spectacular. My dogs run a lot in my yard and other spaces but rarely the way they did at this spot. They literally looked like they were bouncing as they played chase through the grass. Sometimes I couldn’t even see them! You’ve got to check out this video clip. The grass makes for the best doggie hide-and-seek ever!
Second, humans smell nothing (or at least this human didn’t!) but the dogs are experiencing a smell-a-palooza. Charlie, Sadie, and Rorie often frantically sniff when we arrive at a new spot. They zip around, a little anxiously for the first minute or two, checking out everything they possibly can. Their experience at El Ranchito de Los Perros was completely different. They were calm from the moment we walked through the gate, appearing to move in slow motion as they sniffed. They lingered in spots and felt so comfortable that they spent most of the first part of our visit in completely different parts of the yard without me or each other. I also didn’t have to worry about anything that sweet Sadie (AKA the garbage disposal) nibbled because Kim and Doug make sure everything is doggie safe.
Finally, we have to mention the other animals around this spot. The neighbors have several beautiful horses. I was unsure how my pups would do with horses this close (they can go nose-to-nose through the fence), so we took the introduction slowly. Eventually, there was lots of licking and sniffing through the fence. Rorie barked a few times but the horses seemed unfazed and moved on when they were tired of my pack. In addition to horses, Kim and Doug were fostering a litter of adorable puppies during our visit (in addition to their pack of 7!). In this quick property tour, you can see the litter’s outdoor pen and my dog’s very different reactions. If you’re wondering if there will be puppies when you visit, reach out to Kim and Doug before you visit. Kim patiently and thoroughly answered my questions about the puppies and so much more!
No matter where in the Triangle you live, this spot is worth a visit. I’d plan on staying at least an hour. For our future trips, I’m considering some of Kim and Doug’s extra features like wifi access so I can spend a few hours doing some work while my dogs play.
We’d love to see your photos from your visits in the comments below – please share!
Also, be sure to look for a guest post in August from one of our readers who is having Kim and Doug build a doggie sensory garden in her backyard!
Keep exploring!
What an honor to be featured like this. We hope this will bring more doggies to share our little sanctuary with.
Thank you!