Ruffin Inn offers guided 20-minute nature walks as a $12 add-on for dogs while they board or visit daycare. Unlike most facilities, we have 8 acres and woods for dogs to walk, explore, and sniff with trained staff. Nature walks are especially recommended for dogs who aren't the best fit for group play and want some extra adventure.
What's included
- 8 acres and woods. Most facilities don't have the room. We have 8 acres of fields and woods for your dog to walk, explore, and sniff.
- About 20 minutes. Long enough for real exercise and enrichment, short enough to fit between yard sessions or meals.
- Great for solo adventurers. Especially recommended for dogs who aren't the best fit for group play but still want some outdoor adventure.
- $12 add-on to any stay. Layer a walk onto a boarding stay or a daycare day for $12. Schedule at drop-off.
From the nature walks side of the house
Real photos of nature walks at Ruffin Inn — our team, our rooms, and the dogs we look after.
Nature Walks rates
A 20-minute guided walk across our 8 acres and woods — room most facilities don't have — added on to a boarding stay or daycare day. Especially recommended for dogs who aren't the best fit for group play.
Guided nature walk
- Per walk (≈20 min)Added to a boarding stay or daycare day$12
Loyalty & referrals:Up to 5% back on stays through our loyalty program.Refer a friend — $35 credit to both of you toward future boarding or daycare.
Prices current as of 2026. Full rate sheet →
Frequently asked
How much do nature walks cost?
Nature walks are $12 per walk, added on to a boarding stay or daycare day. Each walk runs about 20 minutes across our 8 acres and woods. Add one at drop-off or ask at the front desk.
Who are nature walks best for?
Any dog who loves the outdoors — but they're especially recommended for dogs who aren't the best fit for group play. A 20-minute guided walk gives them adventure, exercise, and enrichment on their own terms.
How long is a nature walk?
About 20 minutes. Long enough for real exercise and plenty of sniffing across our 8 acres and woods, short enough to fit between yard time and meals.
Can my dog do nature walks if they're reactive on leash?
Mildly reactive dogs may be able to walk solo or with a smaller group. We assess every dog before adding them to a walk.
Do you walk in winter?
Yes, weather permitting. We skip walks during dangerous cold, ice, or storms.
Where do the walks go?
Right here on our own property — 8 acres of fields and woods to explore and sniff, away from busy roads. Most facilities simply don't have this kind of outdoor room.
Is it safe? What if my dog gets loose?
Every walker uses a sturdy six-foot leash and a flat collar or harness. We never use retractable leashes on walks.
Can my dog do a walk and daycare on the same day?
Yes — many families layer a walk on top of a daycare day for extra enrichment.
What gets brought on the walk?
Water, poop bags, and treats. Your dog comes back in time for their normal feeding and rest schedule.
Ready to book?
New families get a quick orientation visit before their first stay.
Or call (763) 682-4247