Buster’s Final Ride

To no fault of the family he was born to, Buster was an extremeley under socialized dog, he didn’t meet other dogs and people as much he should have during the formative puppyhood stage, so when I met Buster he was 2 years old and he was very shy and timid. We started with regular neighborhood walks, after several months I brought my senior cattle dog, who didn’t give Buster any attention, but it was perfect for Buster, he needed her stable, neutral energy with lots of positive experiences, nothing intimidating.

It wasn’t long before we were walking with several dogs and then he graduated to attending our small dog play dates.  He thrived!   (more…)

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Pets as Presents – Yea or Nay?

Stuart
Calder, Pippi and Daisy!

We’ve all seen the photos and videos; a child opens a gift box and out comes the most adorable puppy or kitten in the world! The best gift ever, right? This is a long debated subject in the animal world and often thought to be a terrible idea. However, in recent years, many shelters have changed their position and policies on giving pets as gifts. They’ve found that the majority of the time, an animal given as a gift, finds responsible, loving, caring homes. (more…)

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Grieving the Loss of a Pet

Ban on stairs

When we lose a beloved animal family member, often times people are left to deal with the enormous loss privately because they do not have people in their lives that understand the level of grief that they are experiencing.

After losing my beloved dog, I felt very confused by the raw, painful emotion I was feeling. I quit my corporate job within weeks and within one year started my pet care business.  No doubt there were angels at work in the midst of the deep heartache.  Since starting Affinity Pet Services in 2004, I have had the honor of caring for hundreds of loved animal companions and sadly, many have passed away.  Through the process, I’ve learned ways to help the grieving family if they desire support. (more…)

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The Journey

Most people look forward to Fridays, they wake up Saturday ready for some R&R, some play or even a weekend getaway.  By Sunday afternoon the heaviness sets in, Monday is weighing heavy on their souls, the dread of another work week, they go back to the grind and look forward to Wednesday, hump day, then it’s only two more days till Friday, another cycle repeats every week.  I used to be that person. A high stress job that I loathed, fluorescent lights, dealing with people that were less than savory, all for the golden paycheck. (more…)

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