For 13 years, Camp Wagalot, a dog daycare in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, has helped countless dogs from both forever homes and rescues. Now, the Berkshire Eagle reports that the beloved community business is considering closing its doors.
According to their website, owner Jennifer Andrews hasn’t always loved dogs. After suffering a dog bite at five years old, Andrews was fearful. Eventually, her family adopted Spot, a German Shorthaired Pointer. Over time, Spot helped Andrews learn to love dogs again. Curiously, Andrews said the bite attack led her on a journey to understand why some dogs become so aggressive.
Eventually, this led to the opening of Camp Wagalot. The business offers everything from food and toys to boarding and training services. A sign emblazoned with the company logo reads “where best friends are made”.
Hard Times for Camp Wagalot
Unfortunately, the combined effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation have taken their toll on Andrews. Pointedly, she said the pandemic has completely drained her reserves. Upsettingly, this reality means Andrews is unable to make essential repairs for her business. In one example, Andrews said her driveway—the only way in and out of Camp Wagalot—would cost $100,000 to fix. Alarmingly, Andrews said without these repairs, she will have to close shop at the end of the year.
Amazingly, Andrews has been nothing if not generous throughout the pandemic. Not only did she manage to keep her staff paid when business halted, but she was also patient with clients being behind on payments.
In one incredible example, Andrews brought in Moylan, an Afghan Hound that struggled with ‘stranger danger’. At the time, Moylan’s owner was delivering meals to seniors. According to Andrews, Moylan would “light up” at camp. After Moylan’s owner fell ill and passed, the family asked Andrews if she would bring Moylan into her home. Without hesitating, Moylan became a full-time Camp Wagalot resident. Incredibly, Camp Wagalot is also a free foster home for Jacks Galore, a local Jack Russell terrier rescue group.
Locals Are Helping Out Camp Wagalot and Giving Thanks
Diane Durant, a client and former employee, told the Eagle “I don’t want her to have to close — ever — because of the pandemic. That would be a huge loss to Berkshire County and they don’t even know it.”
Thankfully, the community is rallying behind Andrews. A GoFundMe for Camp Wagalot is seeking $75,000 to help with repairs. Currently, it’s raised just over $14,000. Andrews said the money is for essential repairs only, such as the driveway and updating the camp’s central office—currently a shed from Home Depot.
Admittedly, Andrews said people had to push her to accept the fundraiser. Normally a self-reliant person, she’s used to providing for others rather than asking for help.
“I don’t ask for help, I’ve never done that,” she said. “ I’ve built everything [myself] and so it’s a very uncomfortable place for me. But it feels wonderful to feel the community that we have helping out.”
