We sent our puppy to Shelmar kennels and she had a great time and came back well mannered and able to heel on a leash. We have since sent her back for boarding since she had such a good time and they work on reinforcement and making sure she stays on track with the program they established for us. Both Shelly and Martin were very nice and professional and sent us update videos. We were able to email weekly to get updates on her progress. I highly recommend Shelmar for puppy training read more

We have an island dog named Balashi that we thought had aggression issues. A year ago, we adopted another island dog and Balashi almost tried to kill the pup. We sent her to Shelley and Martin for a 3 week inboard training. They kicked Balashi out after a week saying she was untrainable. The videos they would send us showed Balashi being very lethargic and not herself. Since then, we hired an in home trainer who was able to change Balashi's life around. She is a completely different dog and the trainer did this in 5 one hour sessions. We finally had our happy dog back after this training. We are now able to walk her and take her to public places and she is absolutely great. No telling how Shelmar Kennels treated our baby while there. One thing is for sure, we would NEVER recommend them. read more

DO NOT trust these Shelly with your dogs! We did a board and train program with them in early 2020 and our pups came back traumatized and my larger dog (border collie/lab mix) had a damaged voice box from Shelly's incompetence. We never saw Martin, so I'm not sure if he was even around or if she tried to take over things on her own, but I have felt guilty for subjecting my dogs to her treatment for the last year. Since that experience, our anxious pup (the border collie mix) has had extreme anxiety with strangers and neither dog will voluntarily get into the car to go anywhere out of fear that they will be sent to this HELL. read more

We dropped our 1 year old hound mix off with Shelly when we were moving into a new house. Those two weeks with Shelly took our dog's basic skills and made her a more dependable and responsive dog. The environment, instruction and style of training Shelly provides is exactly what our dog needed and responded great to. We asked Shelly to focus on recall (our hound mix very scent/prey driven) and after picking up our pup we are able to take her hiking, or off leash, without fear-even if there's a squirrel or lizard. Fast forward a year later we used Shelmar again for an extended stay for our dog since we would be out of town for two weeks. Our dog came home exhausted, happy and better mannered with the skills Shelly initially instilled in her. She slept on the couch for almost two days after bringing her home. Shelmar kennels provides a great environment for an outdoorsy and active dog. We have used many different dog boarding places and each respond differently to our pup. She's a high energy handful and a big strong dog. This can be an issue for dog boarding staff at times. But Shelmar Kennels more than provides excellent individualized care for our dog. The property is beautiful and meticulously well kept. With the impressive pond and big dock that the property boasts it's no wonder why our dog has so much fun there. Now when our dog starts to act up in any way we jokingly tell her that we are going to send her back to Ms. Shelly to straighten her up! Even though Shelmar is on the other side of Houston, that two hour round trip drive is more than worth it for the care our pup receives read more

Shelmar Kennels - Pet Sitting Near Me - Katy, Texas

Emailed them last night for dog boarding in October. We picked this place because of the reviews and they do behavior training. We have a fear biter who fear bites new people. We were going to do training if they couldn't accommodate for boarding at that time. We also asked if they had recommendations for our situation if they couldn't help us out. The only response we got was a rude passive aggressive "we don't do boarding anymore. Thanks, Shelly" Apparently they're closed for business? Their website says otherwise. Also due to the negative reviews, slapping and using choke collars, we'll definitely be taking our business elsewhere!! read more

I don't know if Shelly and Martin would even remember us, but my husband and I definitely remember them. Back in 2008 or 2009, we brought them our 1-year-old Boston Terrier rescue, Rudy, for training. He was aggressive and incredibly anxious. He did so incredibly well with them and came back a much calmer and happier dog, we did follow-up lessons and boarding with them, and Rudy continued to improve. Rudy is almost 12 now and still with us. He has been through many life changes with us including adding children, more dogs, and a cross country move. He is such an incredible dog and an amazing family pet. Like I said, it has been so long, I don't know if Shelly and Martin remember us, but we still talk about them and how they helped us help Rudy be the amazing family dog he was meant to be. read more

We just got our pup back from the three week training. There were things i was worried about prior to dropping her off like would she be kenneled inside or out, would she play with other dogs, is this a great idea? Everything was answered and surprised us. We loved this training and highly recommend it anyone. The dogs are kenneled inside, stay on scheduled, have play time with dogs, and Shelly and mark treated her so well. Our pup was given new bones and a leash to take home to continue training. You are able to email Shelly once a week to get a good update on how training is going. Stella came home exhausted but happy! She is not biting or barking anymore and not jumping up as much. We are still working on sit but that's just something we have to see through. read more

Fine for kennel, owner is nice and keeps property clean. She took care of my puppy, however the 4wk in home training is a joke. My puppy knew more on potty training before she went and certainly listened better. Now all she wants to do is run wild and if she is in the house out of her crate for even a minute she will potty without warning. I at least had her going to the door, now I'm starting over with a $1600 loss. Frustrating and forget discussing with owner, it will just be something you are doing wrong. I do not recommend this kennel for training. Boarding only read more

Shelly and Martin trained our black lab to be a really good gun dog and, most importantly, to be a fabulous member of our young family 16 years ago. My husband surprised me with a puppy after the birth of our first child. (Note to husbands...maybe ask first?!) After his training, Duke became a full fledged member of our family. Neighbors wanted to know how we got a lab to be so calm, so well behaved, could they get one of his puppies? We lost Duke a few years ago, and we have invested in amazing hunting dogs with lots of training and we love them all dearly. But they are all held up to the Duke standard. If I was within 500 miles of Katy Texas, no one else would have care or training of my dogs. I can't say enough how much we trust Shelly and Martin. I really felt Shelly developed an amazing bond and love for our Duke when he was there. read more

Excellent service and very knowledgeable. I can definitely see a major change in my maltipoo. I'm very grateful for the knowledge that Shelly gave my daughter and I to continue to be successful with our puppy. I would recommended Shelmar Kennels to anyone. Awesome service!! read more

Shelmar Kennels saved us! We were in a difficult situation. We had one dog that was 6 years old, we'll-behaved, but very possessive. She had issues with other dogs occasionally, but once she got used to them, she was generally happy and playful. After picking up a puppy off the street, we were hopeful the same thing would happen. However, our older dog repeatedly beat up on the puppy. Never to any serious degree, but clearly she wasn't happy sharing our attention. Finally, we had about a 6 month gap where things were fine. Unfortunately, when they did get into it again, our now older and much larger puppy began to fight back. Long story short, while trying to separate them, I got bit. We were now having to make the difficult decision to find another home for our younger dog. Before giving up, we found Shelmar Kennels, which assured us they could help. Shelly and Martin did a consultation with us, where they quickly pointed out some of the major dominance issues, as well as our bad habits. Both dogs went to "boarding school" for a full month where they were trained and we weren't allowed to see them. Shelly gave us routine updates on their progress, and we were hopeful that we wouldn't have to leave either of them there past 4 weeks, although our older dog certainly tested their resolve. Once we got them back, we had a couple follow up sessions where Shelly and Martin trained US on how to handle the dogs and ensure we're in charge, not them. After going home and setting some new rules/boundaries, all seemed much better. In fact, we continued to bring them back for boarding and "refresher" training. They weren't perfect, but were MUCH better and we now knew how to handle them. We've now moved away from Houston, so are no longer able to board them there. I certainly miss knowing they have a comfortable, fun place to stay while we're out of town! But with our continued enforcement of the rules, we no longer hear growls between the two, let alone a fight. They are actually closer than ever, and the older one no longer has the space issues she once did. In fact, she's better with meeting new dogs altogether because of the socialization she got at Shelmar. So I HIGHLY recommend them for any training or boarding, but more importantly for dogs with aggression issues. They far exceeded our expectations and we're so happy to be able to keep two happy dogs! Quick note on general boarding: It's a great place that gives them a good routine and lots of outdoor activity! They basically have the same expectations during boarding as they do during training. Our dogs were always excited to get there, as they loved Shelly and Martin, the socialization with other dogs, and the expansive grounds with a pond to swim. I was always confident they'd come back healthy, happy and sleepy from all the fun! HIGHLY recommended for all services! read more

We have been taking our two dogs to Shelmar Kennels for a little over three years now. One of our dogs participated in their in home obedience program (with great success) and they both are kenneled there multiple times a year. We have never had any communication issues or been treated badly at all. Martin and Shelly are very personable people and when it comes to your pets they give you very honest and direct feedback. Why would you want anything be to sugar coated about the behavior of your pet? We view it as constructive criticism and use it to help train and work with our pups at home. When comes to boarding, our two pups always come home tired and happy. One of our dogs is a hunting dog and is quite the explorer and has some scratches and a little mud on her noes when we pick them up but what do you expect when shes out exploring, sniffing and running through their several acres for a few days at a time. Sounds like a dog dream to me. When we go drop them off as soon as they see the gate they get excited. Shelmar is a much better option then having your fur friend sit in a kennel at a mass facility somewhere where the only outside is a concrete walking pad. Their website lays out their hours of operation, pickup/drop off times, rules, contact info, etc. We make it work and drive from the middle of Houston because we trust Shelmar Kennels caring for our pets. We have referred family and friends and they have had great experiences also. If our dogs seem happy we are happy and will continue to use Shelmar. read more

Our two dogs have spent time there on multiple occasions including receiving training to break them - and us - of some habits. Although it is a drive from the city, we like knowing that our dogs are well taken care of and have a huge field and pond to enjoy. Shelly and Martin are communicative and have a structured routine for all of their boarders. The dogs come home dirtier from all of their outdoor play, but it is a small price to pay to know that they will be well taken care of. read more

Sent our dog to Shelmar for work with his aggressive issues. He's not 100% fixed but all dogs with his situation are a lifetime of work and progress. He's much improved. Thanks Shelly! read more

I live in Spring, so Katy is a bit of a drive, but I would not hesitate to recommend Shelmar Kennels to anybody, no matter the distance. My pup is 9 months old and 85lbs, so a giant puppy. Shelly was able to get a handle on his puppy behaviors such as jumping and mouthing, work on obedience, and socialize him heavily, all in four weeks. She clearly understands dogs very well and knows how to work with them. For example, my dog was previously afraid of the car and now jumps in willingly and with excitement! I feel like I can finally enjoy my dog. Their board and train program is worth every single penny. read more

The Shelmar Kennels website is impressive, BUT - Don't be fooled! Our consultation visit to Shelmar Kennels was a disaster. The owner is very arrogant. He claims he is just honest and blunt, but there is a difference between being honest and being incredibly rude. He acted like a TOTAL DICK!!! They give NO references, NO tour of the facility, very arrogant and rude, and NO respect with potential new clients, unless you are rich. We asked to see the premises and were only shown the training pad. We never saw any dogs and never saw where the dogs are kept. I am aware that dog owners/dog parents need to be trained too, but it doesn't mean we are bad people. We certainly don't need to be disrespected and rudely treated. We are seeking a dog trainer for the dog and someone who will train and guide us as well. This is why we want to take our dog to a DOG TRAINER. At one point, I interrupted his story telling about wealthy clients (i.e. CEO of Hershey, Lottery Winner in Katy, a local Billionaire and Son) to ask what chemical was being put into the water buckets for cleaning, only to have him berate me for interrupting and told me his time is too valuable to have someone interrupt him. I apologized and explained that I had a dog die last year from chemical burns after leaving him at a boarding facility and that this was the reason I cared about the chemicals they use at the kennel. The response was very defensive as he said "I'm not going to change." He asked where I worked and after I told him, things went down hill from there. Guess we weren't rich enough for him! Funny, our money for his services will spend just like the wealthy clients money. We asked for references of some families with the same breed of dog as ours and we were told he doesn't do that. "You either love us or not. Read reviews on the website." We were told he doesn't care if we use their kennel, they have plenty of business. (Why would you say this to a potential customer?) He said we should look at other kennel training facilities. We knew right then that we were being dismissed. After this visit, I would strongly not recommend this training kennel to anyone. Nor would I ever leave my dog with these people at Shelmar Kennel. read more

Be careful with this Kennel. They promise wonderful care, but do not deliver. Ask to see the facility your dog will be kept in. They will refuse. What kennel does not allow you to see the place your beloved pet will be staying whilst you are away? A defensive, rude, and unprofessional attitude when asked basic questions about the facility did not help. They are also a training kennel, yet our well mannered and obedient dog completely ignored and ran away from the "trainer". In addition, he has come back filthy and in a thoroughly soiled cage. We were told if the dog didn't fit their regime, we should not send him there, as individualised care was not part of the price. You should feel complete confidence and peace of mind regarding your kennel. Hope this has helped slim down choices. read more

We took our 1 year old that we had worked very hard on basic obedience prior to arrival at Shelmar. She would sit, down and stay. We left her there for 6 weeks and got her back w barely a sit, no down, and very poor leash walking. I would look further into other places that your friends have been too before using this place. Our dog may now have an airway issue from "traumatic choke chain usage" per the Vet.. Please look into other places and if you do choose Shelmar, do ask to tour the facility, and get on paper what will be the goals of the stay!!! I would go elsewhere though... read more

Shelmar kennels is an excellent facility for dog training. Shelly and Martin are very knowlegeable and our pet was treated very well there. Our bichon frise puppy came home from a 3 week training course knowing basic commands, hand signals, and is perfectly potty trained (a major plus, particulary since Bichon frise's are normally difficult to potty train). We took our dog back 2 years later when out of the blue he started getting nippy and they are currently working with him (and importantly us - the humans taking care of him) now to correct this behaviour. I have never found Shelly or Martin to be unprofessional. They are strict but I would expect that from a dog trainer. I have found them to be flexible and accomodating and if you take your dog here, you will see good results. There is a reason why these people have been in business for so long and I am with the vast majority of people who had an excellent experience here. read more

I chose Martin and Shelly to train our bloodhound when he was 6 months old. We were having issues with him being stubborn and jumping up. We signed him up for the 4 week training session and the results were amazing. Martin and Shelly worked with us on multiple appointments after the initial training to help get us the dog owner accustomed to the commands and behavior that our dog responds to. My bloodhound is 100lbs and I can walk him on a leash without feeling like my arm will be pulled out. Thanks to Martin I walk him he doesn't walk me. Our dog is also very well behaved and obedient while being walked off leash. We board him and our 12 yr old mix breed at Shelmar Kennels and every time I drop them off they are happy to be back visiting. When I pick them up they are happy and I can tell they have been cared for in a loving manor. The fine tuning on our training during boarding is awesome as well! They are amazing with special diets and medication and keeping in touch while the dogs are boarded. I would recommend them 1000 times over for any dog that needs obedience training or even that special dog that has more severe behaviors to address. Shelmar is a great place for both you and your dog! read more