Welcome to Happy Hound Daycare

A Tired Hound Is A Happy Hound

Happy Hound Daycare is not your traditional dog daycare. We are a structured, Cage/Kennel FREE, Enrichment & Training base dog daycare. All staff professionally trained & CPR and First Aid Certified.

Meet The Team

Laura Higgins/Owner, CDT, AKC CGC Evaluator, Canine Nutrition Certified

Laura founded Northwest Hills K9 Rescue, Inc. in 2010 after adopting and volunteering with another rescue organization. Driven by her mission to save animals and educate the public, she has cultivated a network of friends who share her passion for animal welfare. In 2012, Laura graduated with an Associate's Degree in Occupational Therapy and has since obtained certifications in Dog Training, AKC Evaluator, Dog CPR/First Aid, and Canine Nutrition.

An equestrian for over 40 years and a lifelong dog enthusiast, Laura initially enjoyed her career as a therapist. However, her profound passion for animals led her to establish Happy Hound Daycare, LLC, on March 2, 2020. Remarkably, she managed to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with the help of dedicated friends who volunteered their time.

Laura has resided in Torrington, CT, for more than 35 years and has been married to Michael Higgins since 2008, who has been her greatest supporter throughout her endeavor.

Bekah Smith, Assistant Manager/Certified Dog Trainer

Bekah Smith graduated from the University of Connecticut in May 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science. During her time at UConn, she acquired practical experience and deepened her understanding of animal genetics, physiology, nutrition, health, and behavior.

Bekah has a particular interest in animal behavior and the training of companion animals. Since joining HHDC in June 2022, she has been actively gaining hands-on experience with dog behaviors in a daycare environment. She is also working under Laura, where she is enhancing her skills through the Life Skills Program.

In her leisure time, Bekah enjoys working with her own dog, Willow, a two-year-old Shepherd mix. She is certified in Dog CPR and First Aid. Bekah was awarded her Certificate as a Dog Trainer in January 2025.

Kaylie Baldis
Dog Handler

Kaylie joined Happy Hound Daycare in August 2024, bringing with her a vibrant enthusiasm for dogs and three years of experience in the field. She is actively developing her understanding of canine behavior and is currently pursuing a certification in dog training.

As a passionate dog owner, Kaylie cherishes her three beloved pups: Odin, Jameson, and Stella. The strong bond she shares with her furry companions exemplifies her commitment to their well-being and happiness.

We are proud to have Kaylie as a valued member of the Happy Hound Daycare team and family.

Ashley Howes
Dog Handler

Ashley joined Happy Hound Daycare in June 2025. She is the proud owner of a beloved Blue Tick Coonhound named Smokey, along with a variety of other pets, including chickens, ducks, geese, rabbits, and two cats.

Ashley expressed a desire to deepen her understanding of dog behavior to enhance her skills in her pet sitting business. She founded the “Cute Critters Club” in 2016 at the age of just 16, initially caring for the dogs of her neighbors.

We are proud to count Ashley among the valued members of the Happy Hound Daycare team and family.