Logo for Dog Boarding and Daycare facility in Wilmington NC

Our Story

Picture of Lourdes and Chris Felmet, Owners of The Barkington and Barkington Acres dog boarding facilities
Chris and Lourdes Felmet started their journey as boarding facility owners with a simple idea and a lot of determination. Their first facility, The Barkington Pet Hotel, opened in February 2020 and they have not looked back since. Lourdes’ background in managing dog boarding facilities, assistance dog training, entrepreneurship, and veterinary care makes her a trusted, knowledgeable owner determined to pass her knowledge down to others.

They recognized a need in the market for a trusted, knowledgeable facility and decided to take the leap and start their own. With limited resources and a small team, the Felmets worked tirelessly to build their brand and establish their presence in the industry. Now they are excited to be opening their second location, Barkington Acres, to provide quality care to
the opposite side of town.

One of The Barkington’s biggest achievements has been winning The WWAY TV viewer’s choice award 4 years in a row from 2020-2023. This achievement not only boosted their business but also solidified their reputation as leaders in the industry.

Graphic of The Barkington 2020 Viewers Choice Award

2020 WWAY3 Viewers' Choice Award

Best Pet Boarding/Grooming/Daycare awarded to The Barkington Pet Hotel
Graphic of the WWAY TV3 Viewers Choice Award 2021

2021 WWAY3 Viewers' Choice Award

Best Pet Boarding/Grooming/Daycare awarded to The Barkington Pet Hotel
Graphic of the award for WWAY TV3 Viewers Choice 2022

2022 WWAY3 Viewers' Choice Award

Best Pet Boarding/Grooming/Daycare awarded to The Barkington Pet Hotel

Our Future

As Barkington Acres looks towards the future, they have ambitious plans for their business.

They aim to become much more involved with rescues, adoptions, nonprofits, and are excitedabout the opportunities that lie ahead.

Picture of Dog Baths at Barkington Acres in Wilmington NC

Love Dogs? Have Experience Working with Animals?

We would love to speak with you about a career with Barkington Acres!  

Testimonials From Our Founding Location ‘The Barkington’

“Love The Barkington!  I have always felt comfortable leaving Winston in their care! I was interested in hearing more about the new Cage-Free Boarding option, so when I picked up Winston from camp I asked Brittany if she could tell me about it. Brittany asked if I wanted to go look at the new space, and I loved that. She explained everything, and I was able to see it with my own eyes. We always feel welcome!”
Elizabeth D.

Via Facebook, Wilmington, NC

“Being in the dog daycare and boarding business for more than 20 years, I can say this is one of the best daycares in town. I know they work tirelessly to make sure the dogs are happy and safe. Thank you all for the hard work and just know we appreciate you. Love, Mavis and Bianca ❤️”
John C.

Via Facebook, Wilmington, NC

“The staff here was amazing! My dog gave them a very hard time while we were away and had him boarded. Other places would of not gone over and above what Chris and Lourdes did to care for our dog. We are sad he wasn’t a good candidate for boarding in the future but very appreciative on how they handled him. Thank you for caring for my baby!”
Michelle B.

Via Facebook, Wilmington, NC