Down a long driveway just outside of Picayune is a country retreat for dogs.

It’s called Barker’s Cove and on the 11 acres of property, owners Robyn and Steven Lombardo have fenced in one acre to provide their canine visitors a place to run and play freely during the day. There are also trails on the property for taking walks.

Steven said the dogs that stay at Barker’s Cove are given multiple play times during the day. During the summer, the dogs are also granted access to an in-ground pool if they like to swim.

Play times are sectioned off into groups of dogs that get along with each other. Steven said that he and Robyn form those groups based on the size and temperaments of each animal.

Inside the home the dogs rest in one of 17 individual kennels. Steven said that the business is capable of possibly caring for up to 25 dogs if some families want to board two dogs together, but he and Robyn prefer to keep the number at 15 or less so each dog gets enough exercise and attention.

Within the boarding area, soft music and a diffuser help keep the animals relaxed.

During each canine’s stay, photos are posted to the Barker’s Cove Facebook page so owners can keep up with their pet’s activities.

Steven said the couple started the business about three years ago, but took a year off to visit family. Last month they reopened it and were glad to see that many of their previous clients returned.

In addition to being able to keep animals for an extended stay, Barker’s Cove also offers a doggie daycare option for working dog owners. Steven said the service is popular with families who don’t want their family friend to spend workdays home alone.

During their stay, the Lombardos can give their visitors any necessary medicine, a particular kind of food and provide them with their favorite bed from home. They also keep the dogs on their usual feeding schedule.

If the owner requests, dogs staying for doggie daycare can be fed before they are picked up to go home.

There are a few requirements that the Lombardos ask of their visitors. All dogs must be spayed or neutered, owners must provide proof that their pet’s shots are up to date and each visitor must be six months old or older. For a full list of requirements, along with rate schedules and pick up and drop off times, see the website at http://www.barkerscovekennels.com/.

The Lombardos can be reached at 504-715-1376.