Happy Tails 
Pet Retreat

Our Dedicated Team

Clio Smeeton – Owner

Clio has operated dog-breeding kennels for over 20 years in British Columbia. She has also trained and coursed Scottish Deer Hounds. In addition, she has provided injured and orphaned wildlife rehabilitation services for over 30 years in both BC and Alberta. She is a founding member of the Alberta Wildlife Rehabilitation Association. Clio is the owner of the 140-acre land that Happy Tails Retreat is located on. She is also the president of The Cochrane Ecological Institute and Wildlife Reserve (also located on the same property).

Ken Weagle –  Owner

With a M.Sc. in Biology, Ken has been involved with the breeding and boarding of dogs for over 40 years. He designed, built and operated Takkalik Kennels in Whitehorse, Yukon - a 12 space boarding kennel. He also bred and trained Siberian Huskies, in addition to cross breeding sled dogs. He was the President of the Siberian Husky Club of Canada for two terms. Takkalik Kennels was one of two boarding kennels operating in Yukon from 1976 to present.

We live on the property and you can therefore have a peace of mind knowing that your pet will be under 24 hour supervision!

Robert Forsyth

Kennel Assistant/Social Media Manager

Robb grew up on an acreage just north of Cochrane, where a childhood immersed in the equestrian world from teaching riding to competing in events sparked a lifelong passion for animals and their care. 
With a background spanning law, veterinary medicine, and marketing, Robb brings a uniquely versatile perspective to his work. He is genuinely excited to channel that breadth of experience into making a meaningful difference at Happy Tails and CEI.

Natasha Tofteland

Kennel Manager


Natasha resides in nearby Cochrane, and runs our kennels Monday to Friday!  Her passion for animal welfare shines through in her work, and she loves spending time with each of our guests!

Catriona Matheson

Animal Care


Catriona grew up with wildlife, and has assisted with wildlife care since the 1970's. Cat has a B.A. in History and the Classics, and her day job is Recruiting for the Canadian Armed Forces.

Catriona assists with wildlife care and Happy Tails Pet Retreat during evenings, weekends and days off. Her contributions also extend into strategic planning, facility development, fundraising and facility promotion.

Cat has completed the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Certification.
Check out what we do at our onsite wildlife reserve!

Now Hiring

Wildlife Technician