Meet Owners

Eileen and Kimberly Petrucha

Eileen and Kimberly Petrucha have been operating an over 2 century old family cattle ranch in Matagorda County for over fifteen years. During that time, they have expanded their passion for cattle ranching to include dog boarding and training. Their lifelong dream of working with dogs has turned their working ranch complete with a herd of Red Brangus cattle into a state of the art dog training facility.

It started early: both Eileen and Kimberly dreamt as young children of working with animals as their chosen careers. Eileen is a Texas native whose ancestors started cattle ranching over two centuries ago. She has called Matagorda County home her whole life. Kimberly is originally from Akron, Ohio and now calls Texas home.

Eileen and Kimberly’s ranch is the ideal place for any type of animal, yet they have taken special care to create a nurturing space where dogs can learn and thrive. “We both have always loved animals,” says Kimberly. “Dogs are smart, loyal and definitely have a mind of their own.” Eileen and Kimberly’s own dogs, a mini poodle named Finley and Dolly, a Rat Terrier mix, share the ranch along with BG, the barn cat.

Their approach to dog boarding and training begins with creating the ideal environment for dogs. Each building at their facility is climate-controlled with central heating and air conditioning. “We want the dogs to be comfortable and not stressed by heat or cold,” says Eileen. “And because of our proximity to the Gulf and hurricane season, we have generators for backup in case we lose power.”

They focus on a holistic approach to dog training,which includes working with owners, as well. “We understand that most dogs live in suburban or city areas and are mainly on a leash,” says Eileen. “Our focus is to ensure that owners feel they have control of their dogs and can have them respond to commands after they leave the ranch to go home.” Kimberly echoes that spirit and says each dog is treated individually. “Each dog is unique, and we take the time to get to know them as well as their owners.”

Meet Tammy

Certified Dog Trainer and Chief Bark-eting Officer

Working with dogs professionally and personally is a way of life for Tammy, a Certified Dog Trainer. Tammy graduated from Starmark Animal Behavior Center and Academy, a world-class dog training facility near Austin, Texas.

Born and raised in Orange County, CA, Tammy moved to Texas in 2016 to attend dog training school and hasn’t looked back since. “I love Texas,” she says. “Working with animals on the ranch is where I want to be. We’ve created an incredible environment for dogs here. As soon as you arrive at the ranch, you and your dog will sense that this is a wonderful place to be.”

Tammy’s approach to dog training is what she refers to as balanced. “It’s the ideal mixture of positive reinforcement and corrections.” She says her favorite aspect of dog training is when the light comes on in a dog's eyes. “You can see the moment they truly understand a command.”

Tammy’s dog, a Labrador Retriever named Scarlet is by her side each day at the ranch. “She’s my work buddy. She helps me get to know the other dogs and make everyone feel welcome.”

Tammy’s five-point dog training philosophy:

Every dog is different. They all have unique personalities just like people.
Relationship building is the foundation of training. That goes for the dogs and their owners.
Training doesn’t stop at the ranch. Each owner has to feel comfortable giving commands and motivate them to keep learning.
Environment is key. You have to feel comfortable to give your best and the same goes for dogs.
A balanced approach – praise, correction and patience – is the key to success.

Meet Skyler

Groomer

Skyler has been making pets look and feel their best as a professional pet stylist for 4 years. She quickly creates a bond with each dog she meets using her knowledge of canine communication and a gentle touch. On her days off you can usually find Skyler at a dog show or dock diving with her 2 American Cocker Spaniels, Remedy and Chance. She also competes in showmanship with a English Springer Spaniel named Well.

Calm, Confident, Comfortable: Skyler’s goal for every dog that works through the door is to enjoy the grooming process in a calm atmosphere while gaining confidence in their surroundings and going home with a groom that suits their personality and lifestyle! “The Petrucha Ranch is just that! They have created an incredible environment in order to give every pup a positive experience!" Skyler says.