When Don Kaufman began searching for a business to purchase, his wife Prati had one practical requirement for him: “You are not a people person, so it’s best if you find something with the least human interaction.”
They wanted what Don calls a “passion business” — something rooted in purpose, community, and daily work they could genuinely enjoy.
In July 2024, the Kaufmans purchased New Inn Kennels in East Haddam, continuing a nearly five-decade legacy of caring for local pets and giving Don the outdoor, animal-centered business he had been hoping to find.
“I have always loved dogs,” Don says. “While searching for commercial properties one day, I stumbled on this place.”
The couple became the fifth owners of the family-run kennel, which has been serving pet owners since 1977. Situated on a picturesque 23-acre property on Sheepskin Hollow Road, the business includes 1.5 acres devoted to boarding, daycare, and play areas, as well as the Kaufmans’ second home, allowing them to be on site around the clock.
“We are a local and family-owned business,” Don says. “We love the animals, and we love what we do.”
The transition to kennel ownership marked a significant career change for them. Don is a U.S. Navy veteran who served as a military police officer. He later built a career as a master technician for Audi before deciding to pursue a different path.
Today, Don is hands-on with the kennel’s daily care and operations, while Prati works behind the scenes applying the same strategic marketing expertise she brings to small businesses through her agency, Small Biz Marketing. She also incorporates her work in human energy coaching to support team culture, leadership, and aligned growth, helping New Inn Kennels continue its legacy with intention and heart.
New Inn Kennels can accommodate up to 120 dogs and a dozen cats, offering boarding and daycare services in climate-controlled facilities with spacious indoor kennels sanitized daily. There are also outdoor runs and four distinct play yards. On-site grooming services are available as well. The kennel employs eight staff members, including manager Lindsay and a full-time groomer, to ensure every pet receives individualized attention.
“Every pet is unique, so we tailor services like cuddle time, private play, and nature walks to meet their individual needs,” the website states.
The cats-only room offers two-story condos, providing a calm and cozy environment for feline guests.
New Inn offers boarding, daycare, and a combination board-and-play option.
For Don, caring for animals extends well beyond food, exercise, and a clean place to sleep. The goal, Don says, is to make every stay feel like a vacation.
“Pretty much every month we have a special event here,” he says.
Summer brings some of the kennel’s most popular attractions, including pool parties and backyard-style barbecues. Don takes particular pride in firing up the grill and preparing specialty meats for the canine and feline guests.
Fall ushers in Halloween festivities complete with costumes, contests, and keepsake photographs. At Christmas, the holiday spirit arrives in full force as Mr. and Mrs. Claus, along with an elf, make a special appearance to pose for pictures with the pets.
The celebrations have become a favorite among clients, creating memories for both pets and their owners while adding a little extra excitement to daycare and boarding stays.
That dedication reflects the couple’s broader philosophy about the business.
For them, New Inn Kennels isn’t simply a boarding facility. It’s a place where pets become extended family members and where owners can travel or work with confidence, knowing their companions are receiving plenty of attention, affection, and fun.
That devotion extends to local outreach efforts with animal rescue groups, including helping board pets waiting for a forever or foster home and hosting fundraising drives for rescue groups.
Their combination of hands-on ownership, experienced staff, and a calendar full of special events has helped build on New Inn Kennels’ nearly five-decade legacy.
After all, Don says, “there’s no better business than one built around doing what you love.”
New Inn Kennels
149 Sheepskin Hollow Road, East Haddam
Online: newinnkennels.com
Phone: 860-873-8149
Email: board@newinnkennels.com