Our Story
Redefining Pet Care with Love, Comfort & Fun
Your Dog’s Home Away From Home
A Family-Owned Legacy in Aurora Since 1950
Long before dog daycare was common — before luxury boarding suites, enrichment programs, and climate-controlled facilities — there was open land, horses, and hard work.
Tenaker began in 1950 as a horse boarding facility in Aurora, Colorado. Back then, it was simple: animals needed space, structure, and daily care. The property was built on those principles, and they still guide us today.
In 1986, Brittany’s father purchased the facility and saw something more. While many boarding operations at the time were basic kennel rows, he envisioned a higher standard. He began implementing structured play, professional oversight, expanded yard space, and safety protocols that would later become benchmarks for how dog boarding and daycare facilities operate today.
What started as horse boarding evolved into one of Aurora’s most established dog boarding facilities.
Setting the Benchmark for Dog Boarding in Aurora, Colorado
When Brittany’s dad took ownership, the pet care industry was different. Dog daycare wasn’t widely adopted, enrichment wasn’t a buzzword, and “state-of-the-art” facilities were rare.
Instead of following trends, he built systems around:
- Safety first design
- Supervised socialization
- Spacious outdoor play yards
- Climate-controlled boarding
- Operational consistency
Over time, many of those practices became industry standard. Today, Tenaker spans more than 23,000 square feet and serves over 22,000 pets annually, making it one of the largest dog boarding and dog daycare facilities near DIA. However, the heart behind it hasn’t changed.
A Second Generation — A Renewed Vision
For Brittany, this isn’t just a business. It’s childhood memories on the property. It’s watching her dad care for animals before sunrise. It’s understanding that families were trusting him with something deeply personal.
When Brittany purchased Tenaker from her father, it wasn’t simply a transaction — it was a continuation.
Her vision is to preserve the legacy while breathing new life into the facility. That includes modernizing systems, expanding services, strengthening staff training, and ensuring Tenaker continues setting the standard for dog boarding in Aurora, Colorado.
Today, Tenaker has a leading doggy enrichment program. All team members are CPR Certified, a veterinarian technician conducts nightly wellness checks and our daycare program is run by veterinarian technicians and assistants.
While the buildings have grown and the amenities have expanded, the foundation remains the same — animals come first, families deserve trust, and care should never feel transactional.
From Horse Stalls to a Dog Lover’s Paradise
The same land that once housed horses now includes:
- 11,000 square feet of outdoor play yards
- A heated seasonal pool with waterfall
- Grass lounging areas
- Fully enclosed, climate-controlled boarding
- Structured dog daycare programs
Because of its size and layout, Tenaker provides safe, supervised socialization in a way few facilities can. Consequently, dogs return home more balanced. Meanwhile, pet parents gain peace of mind knowing their dog is in experienced hands.
More Than Dog Boarding Near DIA
Tenaker is more than a facility—it’s a 75-year story of evolution. From horse boarding in 1950 to industry leadership in 1986 to second-generation ownership today, few dog boarding facilities in Aurora, Colorado can trace their roots this far back. That history matters. It means we understand the land, we understand operations, and most importantly, we understand responsibility.
Built on Legacy. Growing with Purpose.
As the industry continues to evolve, Tenaker will continue to grow — but never forget where it started.
We are proud of our history.
We are energized about our future.
And we are honored to care for the next generation of lucky dogs.
“Where Your Pet is Our Guest of Honor”
Testimonials
Pawsitive Reviews
Deidre BellmoreTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been taking our high energy dog, Rodeo, here for 8 months and we only have good things to say! The staff are kind, friendly, and obvious dog lovers with a ton of patience (even for my rowdy dog). They are incredibly accommodating - we are waiting neuter our dog and they accommodate for us by keeping Rodeo in his own fenced "run" to keep him and other dogs safe at daycare! My example of their amazing staff is when Rodeo decided to become covered in poop during daycare. The staff took the time to bathe him and get him all clean before pick up - I cannot be more grateful! Highly recommend for your pet's favorite place away from home! Pam TrudellTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t say enough good things about Tenaker. The staff is extremely accommodating and friendly. My fur baby has the best time when he’s there! And the interaction between him and the staff is heartwarming. Nicole BTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have boarded our dogs here many times over the years and have always been happy with the care our fur babies receive. The facility has so many amenities and staff is great. Angela VondraTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff at Tenaker are the best! Fritzy has been in doggy daycare for 1.5 years. He practically jumps out of my arms when we get there because he is so excited! The facility is clean and the price is great! I feel they truly care about all the animals. I highly recommend them! Nate CohenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My Zelda is a rescue with severe fear aggression. She goes into "Tasmanian Devil" mode at the sight of other dogs and snaps at other humans on walks. But Tenaker has been able to care for her for the 3 years we've been together. . The reception is always excited to see Zelda, and after she gets done putting on the "Show", she gladly heads back to her accommodations. The staff are sensitive enough to know that she needs exercise in a solo run, and are very hospitable. Zelda's last stay involved administering medication, and I have full faith that everything happened flawlessly. The staff are even trained to be friendly to humans as well. After hours pickup and dropoff has been flawless. I won't let my kiddo stay anywhere else when I'm gone. Thanks for taking the worry out of travel. Peace of mind is worth its weight in gold. Sean ParsonsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My wife posted a review as well but I also had to make sure to write one. We can’t say enough good things about this place! We were nervous at first about boarding our dog because he has such high anxiety. Luckily we found Tenaker Pet Care Center. They truly are dog whisperers! Our dog was so well cared for he actually seemed sad to leave! lol! If you’re on the fence about which company to go with, Tenaker should be at the top of your list. Top notch care! Emma ParsonsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t say enough good things about Tenaker Pet Care in Aurora! We’ve trusted them with our dog, Rodney, and they’ve exceeded every expectation. From the moment we walked in, the staff was warm, professional, and clearly passionate about animals. Rodney can be a little anxious, but they handled him with so much care and patience—it really put us at ease. Whether it’s for boarding, grooming, or daycare, Tenaker treats Rodney like one of their own. He actually gets excited when we pull into the parking lot, which says a lot! The facility is always clean, organized, and welcoming. I love that they keep us updated and genuinely care about the well-being of the pets they serve. Thank you, Tenaker, for taking such great care of our pup! Highly recommend to anyone looking for a safe, loving place for their furry family member. Amanda ThorntonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been using this kennel for many many years to board all of our pets, including cats and dogs. The owners do an absolutely wonderful job making sure to treat our babies just as they were their own. They love animals and it shows! Lots of different options for playtime, treats, even doggy TV that your fur babies can watch in luxury! Do not hesitate to use this place as a go to for both boarding and daycare! C HallTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff at Tenaker is amazing! They are always cheerful and greet my dog with such joy. In the many years we've been coming here we have never had an issue and my dog loves his time with them. Brad VarnerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is a great place to take your pets if you’re leaving on vacation or just need a sitter. The staff is very friendly and the place is clean and well kept.
FAQS
Fur-quently Asked Questions
Do you have an age requirement?
My dog is on medication. Will you be able to provide that for my pet while he is in your care?
Absolutely! When you bring in your pet, be sure to bring all medication in its original container, clearly marked with:
- Dog’s first and last name
- Name of medication and strength
- Dosage per day and whether it has been administered the morning or afternoon of drop off.
Note that there is a $2.00/dose charge for medication.
Do I need to provide food for my pet during its stay?
What can I expect when I check in?
Can I bring any comfort of home items for my pets stay?
What types of activities will my pet be able to enjoy while staying with you?
When could I come in for a tour of the facility?
CONTACT US TODAY!
We Can’t Wait to Meet Your Furry Friend
Belly Rubs Included With All Reservations