About US

As a family, animals have always been at the heart of our lives, and we've been fortunate to share our home with a variety of much loved pets over the years. We immigrated to Australia in 2005, and after being reunited with two of our beloved dogs who had spent seven months in quarantine, Australia truly felt like home.

Khatala was founded from a lifelong passion for animals and a dream of creating a unique boarding facility where every guest receives personalised care, genuine love and all the comforts of home.

After working as a Registered Nurse in South Africa, Zelda followed her passion by studying Veterinary Nursing in Australia. Caring for sick and recovering animals in a veterinary hospital, alongside boarding dogs, inspired the vision for Khatala Pet Lodge—a place where every furry guest is cared for with the same compassion, patience and dedication as our own pets.

Today, more than 10 years later, Khatala continues to provide exceptional care for dogs from across Perth and beyond. We remain proudly family-owned and operated, with a dedicated team who share the same passion for animals and a commitment to ensuring every guest enjoys a safe, happy and enriching holiday.

Zelda – Co-Founder & Owner

As a qualified Veterinary Nurse with a lifelong passion for animal care, Zelda co-founded Khatala with a simple vision - to create a place where dogs are cared for as if they were part of our family.

Her knowledge, experience and unwavering dedication have shaped the caring culture that defines Khatala today. She remains closely involved in every aspect of the Lodge, ensuring every guest receives the exceptional care, love and attention that Khatala has become known for.

At home, Zelda and Awie share their lives with Elvis, their beloved Maltese Cross, who has been part of the Khatala journey since the very beginning. As Khatala's original "Welcoming Committee", Elvis has greeted countless furry guests over the years and remains a much-loved member of the Khatala family.

Awie – Co-Founder & Owner

Awie has been an integral part of Khatala's journey from the very beginning. With a diverse range of skills and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he plays a key role in every aspect of the business.

From maintaining our beautiful gardens and facilities to overseeing finances and lending a helping hand wherever needed, Awie's strong work ethic has helped shape Khatala into the welcoming environment our furry guests and their families have come to know and love.

Ilandré – Co-Founder & Manager

Ilandré has been part of the Khatala journey from the very beginning and has played a vital role in helping shape the exceptional standards and personalised care that define Khatala.

With her calm, compassionate nature, professionalism and attention to detail, she is loved by both clients and their furry family members for her genuine care and reassuring presence. She plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day operation of the lodge, ensuring every guest receives the personalised care and attention that makes Khatala feel like a home away from home.

Outside of work, Ilandré loves spending time with her cheeky little Pomeranian, Heidi. Full of confidence, charm and a larger-than-life personality, Heidi keeps everyone smiling with her playful antics and affectionate nature.

Karen – Assistant Manager

Zelda's sister, Karen, has been a cherished member of the Khatala family since 2025. With a natural love for dogs and a professional, caring and friendly nature, Karen helps create positive experiences for both our furry guests and their families. Her dedication reflects the values, compassion and high standards that are at the heart of everything we do at Khatala.

Karen is also a proud pug mum to Maia, a lovable little soul who made the journey all the way from New Zealand. A self-confessed foodie with a talent for napping, Maia's sweet, affectionate personality ensures there's never a shortage of smiles or cuddles.

Chevelle & Maria – Pet Care Team

Chevelle and Maria have been valued members of the Khatala team for many years, bringing professionalism, experience and devoted compassion for every guest in their care.

Their calm, attentive approach has made them much loved by both our furry guests and their families. They take great pride in ensuring every dog feels safe, happy and at home, providing the exceptional level of personalised care our clients have come to know and trust.

Outside of work, Chevelle enjoys spending time with her two Miniature Schnauzers, Coco and Mika. Coco is the older of the pair, while playful Mika keeps life fun and full of energy.

At home, Maria shares life with Reign, her energetic Border Collie, who loves playtime and exploring the great outdoors on hiking adventures.

Where Caring Starts

Because we're a small, boutique Pet Lodge, we're able to get to know every dog as an individual. From their favourite treats and enrichment activities to their unique personalities, our aim is to ensure every guest feels safe, happy and right at home.

As dog lovers, we understand how important it is to leave your furry family member with people you trust. That's why every dog who stays with us is treated with patience and kindness, receiving the same love and attention we would want for our own.

Whether it's their first visit or they're returning for another holiday, our goal is simple - to ensure every guest feels safe, relaxed, loved, and excited to come back.

We can't wait to welcome you and your furry family member to the Khatala family, where caring starts.