Otis Orchards-based I-Guard International K-9 Services LLC, which specializes in breeding and training German shepherds and other dogs for service needs, is constructing a $1.2 million facility in the Spokane Valley to expand its operations.

Jacqueline Lungu, who owns the I-Guard with her husband, Nick, says the business started work in late July to remodel a 2,000-square-foot building at 19223 E. Appleway and add a 10,500-square-foot addition to that structure.

Andrey's Construction Service, of Spokane, is the contractor, Lungu says. Spokane architect Steve Radkey designed it.

Lungu says I-Guard bought the 2.5-acre property east of Barker Road for about $550,000 in March. The building on the site previously housed an indoor golf facility.

The new facility, which is expected to open in October, will include a full-line pet store and a large indoor area for dog training, as well as grooming and pet-boarding services. The business also plans to have a veterinarian offer occasional clinic hours at the facility.

Lungu says the Valley location also will offer an aquatics rehabilitation service for dogs with injuries or a medical condition such as hip dysplasia. She says the rehabilitation equipment is about the size of a regular treadmill that people use for exercise, but it's enclosed and includes a tank holding water.

"We're purchasing an underwater treadmill for rehabilitation for dogs who have had surgery recently and can't run, and it's good way for them to get movement," Lungu says.

Lungu says the facility will have about 60 boarding kennels, and a room will hold 15 to 20 cats for boarding. The owners plan to keep the company's breeding operation in Otis Orchards.