Tampa Bay Canine Retreat

I completed a three-week board and train with Tampa Bay Canine Retreat while I was in Tampa awaiting the birth of my grandson. My daughter's family already has pets, so I wanted to minimize the disruption to their household with a new baby arriving, while knowing my dog was safe, well cared for, and nearby if I needed to get to her. My dog already had a solid obedience foundation, so I wasn't looking to start from scratch. I wanted to reinforce her existing skills while improving areas like loose-leash walking, crate training, impulse control, and confidence. After interviewing several trainers, I chose Tampa Bay Canine Retreat because of the home-based environment and force-free training methods. From the beginning, Amber was thorough. The intake call, detailed questionnaire, and customized training plan showed she wanted to understand my dog's individual needs. I also appreciated the daily updates and training videos, which have been invaluable now that we're reinforcing the training at home. One thing that stood out to me was pickup day. Amber encouraged me to stick with the scheduled time so my dog could be bathed, have her nails trimmed, and so she could give each client and dog her full attention. It showed me that she prioritizes the well-being of the animals in her care over simply rushing people through pickup. The results have been noticeable. Loose leash walking is much better, she checks in with me more during walks, her crate training has improved significantly, and she's showing much better impulse control with less jumping and more patience. One of the biggest changes has been her confidence. My Cavapoo had always been a "Velcro dog," but she's now much more comfortable relaxing independently instead of following me everywhere. We put her training to the test immediately with a 400-mile road trip to South Alabama for a family event, and then the long trip back home to Nashville. She traveled beautifully and is transitioning back into our normal routine much more smoothly than I expected. I realize my responsibility is to reinforce what she's learned. Since she already had a solid obedience foundation, I appreciated that Amber focused on the specific goals I identified while also addressing additional weaknesses she observed during the intake assessment. The result was a truly individualized program, and we're already seeing those improvements carry over into everyday life. I highly recommend Tampa Bay Canine Retreat to anyone looking for a force-free, personalized board and train program with excellent communication.

We boarded our 3 pups with Amber for about a week & would recommend. She gave updates everyday, was thorough on understanding their needs for care & flexible with drop off/pick up. We appreciate our pups being well cared for you can tell that Amber sincerely loves animals & is passionate at caring for them.

Amber was absolutely phenomenal with my Maltese, Milo! From the moment I left him in her care, I felt completely at ease. She kept me consistently updated with pictures and videos, which meant so much—especially since this was Milo’s first time being away from us and around other dogs in nearly five months. What truly stood out was how intentional Amber was about making Milo feel comfortable. She adjusted her routine as needed to ensure he felt safe and settled in what was a completely new environment for him. It was clear that she genuinely cared for him and treated him as if he were her own. One of the main reasons I chose Tampa Bay Canine Retreat was because of the level of engagement and interaction she provides. She doesn’t just “watch” the dogs—she actively spends time with them, keeps them engaged, and even offers training and grooming services depending on your needs. That personal touch makes all the difference. There is truly no better place I would trust with my pet. Amber exceeded every expectation, and I’m so grateful for the love and care she gave Milo. We will absolutely be back!

Amber is amazing and I trust her with my dog. She was able to board my dog for 2 weeks while I was out of the country and made sure to keep me updated with photos and messages. I was able to enjoy my vacation and not worry about the safety of my dog. Additionally I have been bringing her to daycare regularly and my dog always has a blast and comes home tired from playing all day. Amber makes her place feel like home and I am truly grateful for her!

I'm so grateful to have found Amber at Tampa Bay Canine Retreat!! Our Great Dane puppy, Grace, has been going to daycare with training and feels so at home and well cared for there! Amber sends photos and videos throughout the day so we can keep consistent with commands and see how well she's learning. She goes above and beyond to make it special. She recently threw an impromptu dog party when I told her that Grace turned 5 months old that day! All the dogs had a costume party on Halloween. It's great care and great fun! Grace is getting trained and socialized and comes home happy and tired out! At least 12 out of 5 stars!!