As a real estate professional, and a dog-lover myself, I understand that our pets are family. So when Mike Petrullo invited me to visit his newly established doggy daycare in Woodland Hills, I was intrigued by his unique approach.
Dogs don't understand why they're suddenly in a cage when their family goes away, what they need is consistency - spaces, social interaction, and routines that mirror what they experience at home.
After decades of raising Great Danes (including current gentle giants Chico and Duke), Mike has created something that feels less like a kennel and more like your dog's favorite relative's house - the kind of place where they're truly welcomed as family.
What Sets This Local Gem Apart
In our fast-paced world of corporate chains and one-size-fits-all services, businesses like Chico & Dukes remind us of the value of personalized, thoughtful care:
Instead of industrial-style kennels, dogs enjoy home-like spaces with comfortable furniture and spacious yards
Rather than brief play periods between long stretches in cages, pups experience fully social days with supervised play and rest periods
While many facilities focus solely on housing your pet, Mike incorporates behavioral guidance to maintain your training efforts
For families considering a move to our area, these thoughtful local businesses contribute tremendously to quality of life. They're the details that don't show up on listing descriptions but make all the difference in how it feels to live here.
Community Connections
What struck me most during my visit wasn't just the impressive facility or the obvious passion Mike brings to his work - it was hearing him talk about his connections with other local businesses and community members, through adoption events he runs to help find homes for dogs who are in need of one.
It's exactly this spirit of connection and collaboration that makes our neighborhoods such special places to live. When you find the right home in the right community, these relationships become part of your daily life too.
Experience the Difference
If you're a local pet parent planning your summer travels, I encourage you to schedule a tour at Chico & Dukes. Mike welcomes visitors to see the environment firsthand - just call (818) 605-3679 to arrange a time. You can also follow their adventures on Instagram @chicoanddukes or visit chicoanddukes.com for more information.
Dana Olmes and Jeff Biebuyck are the powerhouse duo behind the Frontgate Real Estate Team at Compass, consistently ranking in the top 1% of agents nationwide. Renowned for their integrity, market expertise, and strategic approach, they have built a reputation as trusted advisors to an elite clientele, including corporate executives, attorneys, celebrities, and entertainment industry professionals. Their unmatched negotiation skills and innovative marketing strategies have made them industry leaders, with the majority of their business driven by referrals and repeat clients. With over 40 years of combined experience, Dana’s extensive real estate background and Jeff’s expertise in engineering, music, and film—along with his leadership in prop-tech innovation—position them at the cutting edge of luxury real estate. Their deep connections and specialized focus on Sports & Entertainment clientele further solidify their status as premier agents in Southern California’s competitive market.
