The Shag Bark Story

Shag Bark Pet Retreat & Spa was founded in 1976 by Retired Police Captain Richard Mulder who began his canine training experience in the 1950’s. Training German Shepherd dogs to perform as silent scouts and sentry soldiers during his military service, Richard’s passion for working with canines carried through to his career as a canine officer in the Chicago Police Department.

Richard’s innate ability to communicate and work with animals led to his unique style of training and his renowned success in the Chicagoland area. As an animal behaviorist he has worked professionally as the canine training coordinator for military police units, as well as special security forces and area law enforcement organizations. Richard has authored a book, a video tape and an audio tape on canine behavior and training. He appeared on a number of radio and television shows as an authority of dog training for all breeds using positive reinforcement techniques.

Together with his wife Trish, Richard created a nurturing and caring environment that has made Shag Bark Pet Retreat & Spa a leader in the pet care industry for over 25 years. The business continues on with the same dedication and commitment to quality care with their son, Brian McGuire.

Brian was a natural fit to take over the lodging, training and daycare business, having grown up working in the business since a young boy. Through schooling, independent study, and Richard as a mentor, Brian has studied Ethology (Animal Behavior) and its application toward training and caring for the canine species for over 20 years. He uses these skills as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and his graduate degrees in Mechanical Engineering to create the safest, most comfortable environment possible for the pets under his care.