THE ADVENTURE GUIDES
Meet the Adventure Guides who care for your dogs at The Homestead Nottawa.
Meet the pack behind the paws! Our team of dedicated dog lovers brings together years of experience, endless enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for making every pup's day special. From early morning zoomies to afternoon snuggle sessions, we're here to ensure your furry loved one gets the care, attention, and playtime they deserve. We treat every dog like our own, and we can't wait for you to meet the friendly faces who'll be looking after your best friend.

Founder & Experience Director
Maureen McFarlane
Team Member Since: June 2023 (or basically always) Auntie Mo, as she’s affectionately referred to by clients and her team, is a retired schoolteacher, entrepreneur, and The Homestead Nottawa’s pack leader. Just before the pandemic, she traded her chalk and pencil crayons for muddy paws and outdoor adventures. She opened her dog daycare for family and friends and created a place where dogs “could be mostly outside all day, actively and safely playing with other dogs.” When she’s not on the trails or in the pond with the dogs, Maureen is working tirelessly behind the scenes on her business to ensure the dogs, their owners, and her employees are having the best experience at The Homestead Nottawa. She loves trying out new products, services, and events, and thoughtfully planning facility investments that benefit the dogs and her customer service. She’s a natural entrepreneur and cares deeply about every human and every pup. Read more about Maureen’s experience. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Nova Scotia Duck Toller Best part of my job: I never have to leave my home and get to be with my furry extended family every single day. My dog superpower is: The ability to read each dog’s thoughts and feelings by a “quick look” Favourite Homestead memory so far: BY FAR, my amazing clients and their trust in me with their fur babies…I have built so many memories with each dog and family over the last 3 years that it’s created more of an overarching feeling of warmth, gratitude and love that is hard to pinpoint to a specific memory. Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: I love being by the pond or in the pond with the dogs…I also get joy from being in the forest especially amongst the white pine trees and watching dogs embrace their inner nature and have freedom to just BE! Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: Basically anything with Frankie the Frenchie…she passes gas, rolls in dirt, and then puts on her Pink Pony Club diva persona and it is quite the contradiction. Dream dog adventure: Going up north to my family home in Elliot Lake with my BFFs Favourite season with dogs and why: I LOVE the summer—POND swimming obviously! When I'm not with dogs, I'm: Hmmm… I think I can’t answer this as I’m ALWAYS with the dogs!

Facilities & Finance Manager
Stuart McFarlane
Team Member Since: June 2023 As co-owner of The Homestead Nottawa, Stuart wears many hats to keep things running smoothly. When he’s not at his day job, you’ll find him managing the financials, maintaining the back 40 and trails to keep the terrain in top shape, and connecting with team members, owners, and dogs—always with a smile. Beyond his dedication to the dogs, Stuart, his siblings, and his mother run their family foundation, The McFarlane Family Foundation, which enables others to achieve their highest potential by supporting health, education, amateur sport, and the arts. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Cattle Dogs Best part of my job: It keeps me outdoors and active My dog superpower is: Outrunning them Favourite Homestead memory so far: When my favourite dogs come to visit Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: Anywhere I can be on my tractor Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Wet dog smell Funniest dog moment: Themed picture days—especially with pugs Dream dog adventure: Mountain biking through Moab Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer, because it’s not muddy When I’m not with dogs, I’m: …at work at my other job!

Leader, Canine Experience
Jacquelyn Goodman
Team Member Since: March 2025 Jay brings a lifetime of experience with animals—especially horses and dogs—which has taught her the value of hard work, patience, and compassion. Her ability to combine these qualities with a calm, confident energy shapes how she provides love and care to dogs at The Homestead Nottawa. She’s organized, has a keen eye for detail, and is a strong communicator. Being outdoors with animals is where Jay truly thrives. With a strong passion for animal behaviour, body language, and overall wellbeing, she loves creating a positive and structured environment where dogs feel safe, enriched, and understood. As Jay shares, “I truly love the environment at The Homestead Nottawa, because the dogs are treated like family and their happiness comes first. That kind of environment makes every day very rewarding.” You’ll often see Jay greeting our clients, connecting with the dogs, and maintaining a clean facility to ensure operations run smoothly throughout the day. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Airedale Terrier Best part of my job: Being able to see the dogs come out of their shell and feel at home My dog superpower is: Reading body language and energy Favourite Homestead memory so far: Encouraging the dogs on the paddleboard in the summertime Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The fence hydro cut Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: Dolly “stump dumps” Dream dog adventure: Hiking in the Rockies Favourite season with dogs and why: Fall—chilly mornings and snuggles by the warm fire When I’m not with dogs, I’m: At the barn or hiking with my dogs

Assistant Manager, Homestead Experience
Brianna Goodman
Team Member Since: February 2025 Bri has had a deep love for animals ever since she was a little girl. Growing up with a mom who ran an in-home doggy daycare, her house was always full of dogs, and she was surrounded by all breeds and personalities. Through these early experiences, she learned how to care for dogs, understand their behaviour, and appreciate the joy they bring to people’s lives. Joining The Homestead Nottawa team was a natural fit for Bri, giving her the opportunity to apply her lifelong experience and passion for animals every day while making sure each dog feels safe, happy, and loved. As Bri puts it, “That’s why working at The Homestead Nottawa is so rewarding for me.” When she’s not working directly with the dogs, Bri is connecting with clients, managing tours of the facility, and working behind the scenes to ensure the team is operating efficiently. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Golden Retrievers Best part of my job: Endless hikes My dog superpower is: My patience Favourite Homestead memory so far: Summer camp Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The pond Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: Watching all the pups hopping through the long grass Dream dog adventure: Attending the Westminster Dog Show Favourite season with dogs and why: Fall, because the trails are so beautiful and it’s the perfect temperature for long hikes When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Dreaming of dogs!

Coordinator, Canine Experience
Erika Emerson
Team Member Since: November 2025 Erika brings an absolute love of dogs and a lifetime of experience to The Homestead Nottawa. As she says, “I absolutely LOVE dogs—sometimes more than people.” She has two German Shepherds at home, and her parents have two Golden Retrievers. Having grown up with dogs her whole life, she sees them as family members, which fits perfectly with how we care for every furry guest at The Homestead. Erika is a genuine team player with a big heart and a passion for helping others. With a background in caregiving and years of hands-on experience, she brings a calm, capable presence to the team. She’s organized, safety-minded, and thrives in busy, outdoor environments where she can stay active and connected. The dogs love her, clients have shared wonderful feedback, and our team enjoys working alongside her. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Definitely German Shepherds (even though that may be biased) Best part of my job: Spending time with each dog and getting to know them personally—plus getting my steps in while exercising with the pups My dog superpower is: Mind reading Favourite Homestead memory so far: When Mason and his girlfriend, Sprouty, play together all day Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: Near the pond—I love watching the dogs jump, swim, and chase each other Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Definitely muddy paws, all the way! Funniest dog moment: When Rocky stole my empty Tim Hortons cup and thought it was a new game—at least it was funny for him Dream dog adventure: For my dog Sasha, endless adventures with any type of ball—she could play forever Favourite season with dogs and why: Winter—it’s easier to clean up after, and it manages to tire both me and the dogs out When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Missing them—especially my girls. I love a good break here and there, but I wouldn’t be the same without dogs in my life!

Coordinator, Client Experience
Mackenzie Dupont
Team Member Since: November 2025 Having grown up around dogs, it’s no surprise that Mackenzie’s passion for them eventually led her to The Homestead Nottawa. As she shares, “I worked at a vet clinic for a while as a vet assistant and kennel attendant, and seeing how much dogs love coming here—and hearing such wonderful things about The Homestead—made me want to send my own dog here and then work here!” Mackenzie brings a well-rounded skill set to the team, combining hands-on dog care experience with strong organizational and communication skills. From supporting daily operations to helping behind the scenes, she’s always ready to jump in wherever needed. Since her first day, she’s been committed to making sure both our clients and their pups feel welcomed and well cared for. You’ll often see her smiling face during arrivals and receive her friendly messages from reception. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Aussie & Lab Best part of my job: Being with dogs outside all day My dog superpower is: Teaching dogs tricks Favourite Homestead memory so far: Carrying a little dog in the front of my overalls Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: Around the fire with the doggies Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Wet dog smell Funniest dog moment: Georgia dropping rocks on my toes Dream dog adventure: A camping trip with my doggie Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer, because it’s not muddy When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Reading a book
Youth C.R.E.W.
(Canine Recreation & Experience Worker)

Fiona McFarlane - CREW Leader
Team Member Since: June 2023 Fiona is a lucky gal—she’s grown up with dogs her entire life and lives right here at The Homestead Nottawa! A natural caregiver, she showers every pup she meets with love and is never shy with her cuddles, especially on the couch. As she says, “I like watching movies with the dogs.” You’ll always find Fiona with a smile on her face, working hard to make sure every pup has what they need to enjoy their best day and that every client feels welcome during arrivals. While she enjoys her extracurricular activities, Fiona loves working at The Homestead for one simple reason—the dogs, who she treats like family. Favourite dog breed (or mix): I don’t have a favourite—I love them all! Best part of my job: Dogs! My dog superpower is: My ability to bond with any dog and make them feel part of our family Favourite Homestead memory so far: Snuggling on the couch with pups Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The cottage Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: When dogs try to sit on my lap all at once Dream dog adventure: Camping with pups Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer—not too cold, lots of swimming, and great temperatures When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Reading, sleeping, and doing homework and chores

Ewan McFarlane
CREW Leader
Team Member Since: June 2023 Ewan is a lucky guy—he’s grown up with dogs his entire life and lives at The Homestead Nottawa! As he puts it, “I love how it is at my house.” He enjoys the freedom of working at The Homestead and earning some extra money to do the things he loves most: dirt biking, skiing, biking, running, and hanging out with friends. You’ll often find Ewan greeting clients and chatting with the dogs using the nicknames he’s coined just for them. When he’s off the clock and enjoying downtime with his family, he’s usually indoors snuggled up with the boarding dogs—and often posing for a photo to send to their owners. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Golden Retriever, Corgi, Australian Shepherd Best part of my job: Money My dog superpower is: Everything Favourite Homestead memory so far: The first time I met King George Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The property Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Neither Funniest dog moment: King George’s crowning ceremony Dream dog adventure: Hiking in the mountains Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer (reason not specified) When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Doing homework, biking, or hanging out with my friends

Julia Price
CREW Leader
Team Member Since: October 2025 Julia is a high school student who joins us with a lifetime of experience around dogs. Her family has four dogs, and she has her own dog, Zeus. Since becoming a pet parent, she’s been fully immersed in training—“Zeus knows over 100 tricks!” She chose to join The Homestead Nottawa team because of her love for dogs, her years of hands-on experience, and the opportunity to meet her dream dog breeds while continuing to learn. What truly sets Julia apart is her dedication to creating a positive experience for every dog in her care. As she shares, “I love the environment at The Homestead. The people are nice, and I love spending time with the dogs.” Favourite dog breed (or mix): Boston Terrier Best part of my job: Just being with the dogs My dog superpower is: Staying calm during high-emotion moments Favourite Homestead memory so far: Meeting Ruby (a Rough Collie)—my dream dog breed Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: Creekside trail Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: Dude pooping on me Dream dog adventure: Hiking in the spring and fall Favourite season with dogs and why: Fall—not too cold and not too hot When I’m not with dogs, I’m: With all my other animals

Ella C.
Team Member Since: July 2025 Ella joined The Homestead Nottawa team because of her lifelong passion for pets—especially dogs. She’s grown up with dogs and has one of her own: a miniature Yorkshire Terrier named Teddy. When she’s not busy with school sports and clubs, Ella enjoys helping neighbours and friends care for their dogs whenever she can. She loves working at The Homestead not only for the dogs, but also for the friendships. As she shares, “The Homestead is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to learn more about dogs while also forming connections and meeting new people. This has been an amazing experience.” Favourite dog breed (or mix): Miniature long-haired Dachshunds Best part of my job: Being able to hang out with my fluffy friends all day My dog superpower is: Understanding a dog’s deepest thoughts just by looking at them Favourite Homestead memory so far: None in particular—every dog has a special place in my heart Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The hydro cut—it’s always fun to run around and play with the dogs after a long walk, especially in such a big space Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws—they seem much easier to deal with than tracking down a lingering scent Funniest dog moment: Watching Fiona get smothered by puppies (a common occurrence!) Dream dog adventure: A tropical vacation with all the fur babies Favourite season with dogs and why: Fall—making piles of leaves to jump into with the pups When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Reading or spending time with my family

Hannah B.
Team Member Since: July 2025 Hannah is a team member who, as she puts it, “loves, loves, loves dogs.” When she’s not caring for our Homestead guests, she occasionally walks her neighbour’s dog and enjoys staying busy with her extracurricular activities. You’ll always find Hannah smiling and eager to make sure every dog is having the best possible time. Favourite dog breed (or mix): Labrador Retriever Best part of my job: Getting to meet so many dogs and play with them My dog superpower is: Making dogs feel happy, safe, and loved Favourite Homestead memory so far: Working with my friends and meeting new dogs Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The trails Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws—I’d much rather deal with those than wet dog smell Funniest dog moment: When dogs get the zoomies and run around like crazy Dream dog adventure: Going on a road trip with dogs Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer, because it’s great weather for walks and outdoor play When I’m not with dogs, I’m: At the dance studio or playing a school sport

Lauren E.
Team Member Since: October 2025 Lauren joins The Homestead Nottawa team eager to help create each dog’s best day while continuing to take on more responsibility. She’s the proud pet parent of her dog, Ben, and also offers pet-sitting services for other dog owners. Lauren brings this hands-on experience to every shift, ensuring each dog is cared for with patience, love, and compassion. As she shares, “I love working at The Homestead because I love dogs and really enjoy playing with them.” Favourite dog breed (or mix): Vizsla Best part of my job: Working with dogs My dog superpower is: Staying calm around the dogs Favourite Homestead memory so far: When my dog, Ben, is here Favourite trail or spot at The Homestead: The cottage Muddy paws or wet dog smell? Muddy paws Funniest dog moment: Sprout snoring extra loud Dream dog adventure: Summer forest walks Favourite season with dogs and why: Summer, because it’s warmer When I’m not with dogs, I’m: Doing activities like hockey

Lillian C.
Bio in progress 🐾
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