The Story of Blue Sky Farms, Home of K9 Country Inn
In 2000, a decision was made to leave a high-power, high-stress corporate career and pursue a lifelong passion for working with animals. With the support of a loving family, we purchased our farm. My wonderful husband worked night and day to create the facility of my dreams, and in 2003 Blue Sky Farms was born.
Our goal was to be able to provide a safe, loving environment, in a beautiful country setting, where pet owners could feel comfortable and confident in leaving their pets in our care. We feel truly blessed by the animals we care for, as well as their owners. Many of whom have become like family to us.
In 2017 we took a brief leave of absence from the kennel to take care of our parents, both of whom had stage four cancer. With the time needed to care for family, we decided to leave the running of day-to-day operations to our long-time employees. When my parents sadly passed away, we decided to take the kennel back over. With the experience our employees gained from working here so long, they were able to open their own kennel.
Getting back into things, we decided to extensively remodel the kennel and make it a separate entity from the farm. So as of 2021, we have a brand new facility that we choose to call The K9 Country Inn.
We still have our farm animals and as always, they look forward to the pats from our customers and their children. For those that don’t know us, we are a family-owned and operated six-acre farm. We have many different animals here. Some are strays, some have been rescued, some are fosters, and some are boarders. We have numerous chickens, Little Richard the Rooster, three horses, a few cats, a steer, and two spoiled German Shepherds.
Located on the farm, we have a full-service kennel called K9 Country Inn. We offer boarding, training, grooming, and doggie daycare.
The kennel has been built to be as home-like as possible inside. Our dog play yards have many fun things to offer. Splash pool, sandbox, tunnels, toys, and a tetherball to name a few. We also have wooded walking trails that come out to a beautiful wooded meadow and a relaxation play yard. We always separate dogs into appropriate playgroups according to size, social abilities, and activity levels
We have over 50 years of animal experience in nutrition, training, behavior, and care. We live on the premises and are active in all aspects of the kennel and farm. We have been in business since 2003.
Meet Our Staff
Jeannine Foster, Owner
I was born in Connecticut and transplanted to Virginia in 2000. My life was always filled with animals. My parents made it clear from an early age, that before you take care of yourself, you care for those who can’t care for themselves
My animals were often used as a bribe to get me to do well in school and keep out of any trouble. Growing up I worked at kennels and stables. I trained horses and dogs. Learned about breeding, importing, nutrition, and many aspects of vet care.
I went off to college and became a litigation manager for a large insurance company. Worked there for 15 years. During that time, my animals were always with me. My knowledge of them increased. We bred German Shepherds for 20 years. Trained dogs for obedience, tracking, and protection. We also trained conformation dogs.
Besides dogs, I also worked with and showed horses. It became obvious that my corporate career held no passion for me and was interfering with my love and passion for animals so with the support of my family I ended that career, bought our farm, and went into business for myself working with animals.
I am certified in dog nutrition, animal care, and behavior modification. I have 50 years of experience in caring for all kinds of animals. I have sat on several Boards involved with horses and dog training. An active member of the German Shepherd dog Club, Southeastern Association of Trail Riders, and Tidewater horse council. I have a wonderful daughter and husband, who always support and help me.
Dan Foster, Co-Owner
I was born in Connecticut and moved to Virginia in 2000 to escape the cold winters. I have worked in construction, welding, and property management. For a short time, I was a house rehabber.
My passion is in music. I have played bass guitar for most of my life. I write, record, and produce original music. I work with bands and play live. My bands have opened up for many major acts. I studied music in California in my younger years, and although I am still very involved with music and always will be.
I have been blessed to be able to spend the last 15 years helping my wife on the farm and being able to put my spare time into making our own property beautiful by doing all the kennel and farm maintenance. Sometimes when the wife is mad at me, she puts me on pooper scooper duty. I try to stay in the background of the business and if you see me at the desk and I seem confused, no worries, someone will be there shortly that knows that end of things. I love the animals, but between maintenance and music, My wonderful wife handles day-to-day animal care, customers, and the business end of things.
Sarah Bayona, Animal Care Specialist/Manager
Born and raised in Chesapeake, Va. I have ten siblings, so I have learned great time management skills. I have been working here since 2013. I run things in the kennel and work the front desk as well. I have been here so long I know all aspects of the business.
I am currently attending Liberty University where I am studying zoology (pre-vet) and hoping to attend vet school after I graduate from my undergrad. I have two dogs of my own. I take care of not only the kennel dogs here but the farm animals as well. I have learned so much working here. I absolutely love all the furry friends I have made over the years, as well as our customers. This is my second home. When I am not in school you can find me on the farm and in the kennel.
Linda Owens, Groomer
Linda's goal is to help make the grooming experience as stress-free as possible. She believes in building trust and having the patience to best understand the dogs' body language for a comfortable grooming experience.
Our Goals
To bring your dog’s boarding experience to a whole new level of care and fun.
To create strong and lasting friendships with owners and their pets.
To provide a wide range of services to fit every budget and every dog’s personality, activity level, health concerns, and age.
To make you a part of our family forever.