Nicole MacDuff

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

In a bittersweet farewell to the West Island community, Manoir Kanisha, a beloved pet boarding and relocation facility, closed its doors permanently on January 31, 2025. This decision comes as Aéroports de Montréal reclaims the land for a significant expansion of the Montreal-Trudeau International Airport.

Founded in 1990 by Nicole MacDuff at 175 Jenkins Avenue in Dorval, Manoir Kanisha began with humble origins when two small houses were transported by flatbed truck and placed on what was then an empty field. From these modest beginnings, the facility grew into a comprehensive pet care center, offering boarding, grooming, and specialized international pet relocation services, particularly valuable given its strategic location on the grounds of Montreal International Airport (YUL).

The closure affects not only the facility’s dedicated staff but also countless pet owners who have relied on their services. Many clients have been bringing their pets to Manoir Kanisha for generations, appreciating its convenient airport location and trusted care services. The facility has served thousands of animals over its 35-year history, becoming an integral part of Montreal’s pet care infrastructure and earning recognition as an IPATA-certified pet shipping facility.

ADM Aéroports de Montréal’s expansion plans, which necessitate the reclamation of the Jenkins Avenue property, are part of a broader initiative to modernize and expand the airport’s facilities. The development includes new terminal facilities, improved access roads, and additional parking infrastructure.

For West Island pet owners, the closure creates a significant void in available pet care services. The facility’s unique position as both a boarding facility and international pet transportation hub made it an invaluable resource for the community. Its services extended beyond basic boarding to include specialized care programs, exercise sessions, grooming services, and comprehensive international pet relocation assistance for families moving abroad.

The property, which has served as a second home to countless dogs, cats, and other pets since 1990, will be incorporated into the airport’s expansion project following the January closure. While the development promises improved travel experiences for Montrealers, the loss of Manoir Kanisha marks the end of a cherished West Island institution.

The closure is part of ADM’s ambitious $4 billion airport transformation plan set to unfold through 2035. The comprehensive project aims to address increasing passenger volumes and congestion issues at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport. Plans include expanding terminal facilities, creating additional drop-off areas, enhancing parking facilities, and improving overall airport access. The initiative represents one of the most significant infrastructure developments in the airport’s history since its transition from the original Dorval Airport. n