Check out the construction process and creation of Appalachian Tail Pet Resort. With the guidance of the Town of Mills River, Henderson County and the State Department of Agriculture, our site at 57 S. Mills River Rd. underwent some major renovations. What was once a mechanic workshop is now a luxurious hotel for dogs!
The Timeline of Events
First Walk-through
We found the For Sale posting online, and we saw 57 S. Mills River Rd. for the first time on October 30, 2024.
At first, my husband and I were very skeptical. Talk about a fixer-upper! But as the days turned into weeks following our first walk through of the building, the thing we couldn’t stop thinking about was the potential.
We drew out different lay outs, and we dreamed up different schemes (as entrepreneurs love to do!). Finally, we settled on a rough blueprint that we felt strongly about, and we set to the task of buying this property.
The Adventure Begins!
They say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” We took our first major step and committed to the challenges and triumphs ahead when we signed the papers and purchased 57 S. Mills River Rd. on January 21, 2025.
The Demolition Phase
First, we deconstructed and removed everything that was not up to code. We needed to make a blank canvas, upon which he could craft our future pet hotel.
We demoed everything!
The Build-Out
In March 2025, the building was insulated, the exterior was painted (very satisfying to see!), and the front desk was framed out.
In April 2025, the construction of the suites began!
In May, the play areas outside began to take shape, and the walls started to go up inside.
By the end of June, you’d say that Appalachian Tail was ready to go. The artificial turf was installed in the play area, the suites were finished, and the flooring was all done.
We were filled with pride to have created something so beautiful from scratch, and even more full of gratitude for the support from friends and family that brought us through.
Before and After
Here are some Before and After photos. Thank you all for your support!
