S-S-S-S-S-H-H-H-H !! This is a secret!!!!

RUFF!!!!  Please keep this very quiet and secret!!! S-S-S-H-H!!!  I'm having to write this post quickly and while my human is out of his studio working in his garden.

On Friday, May 3, my human will be 50 years old!  I can hardly believe it myself!  That's older than ancient.  He doesn't look that old though, sometimes, or many times, he acts older but then, er, oops, sorry!

He's a great human to live with and am thankful he has taken me in as his dog and companion homeland security agent, garden assistant, and friend!!  He feeds me very well, takes me places and on long walks.  I have it good living with him and mom.

So, I've planned a special post for him.  It will be published on May 3 by 4 a.m..  Please stop by and leave a comment or a greeting to celebrate my human being a 1/2 century old though he isn't older than dirt like I thought he was!!    Let's have some good clean fun with it!! I'm sure he'll love it!!

Remember it's a secret!! He will be surprised by email! 

Friday's Friend - Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Finally Friday!!  I've got two really cool dogs to introduce to you from the Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc., allow me to introduce to you two friends, Coco and Boxer.

"Boxer and Coco"
Used by Permission, Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

These two buddies, Coco and Boxer, are a bonded pair that must be adopted together. Coco is a 9 year old spayed chocolate female who weighs 72 lbs. Boxer is an 8 year old neutered yellow male who weighs 87 lbs.

These two friends are both up to date on their shots and heartworm negative. Both have nice house manners and do not need to be crated. They know “sit,” “stay” and “down.” They are very friendly and are even kind to cats.

Coco and Boxer are good with cats and are approved for kids aged 2 and up.  

Swimming is a favorite activity while they both enjoy scratches and belly rubs too.

A loving pair, they eat out of the same bowl. Boxer, ever the gentleman, lets Coco eat first.

If you would like more information about these two friends, please contact Lab Rescue's Adoption Center.

"Two Friends"
Used by permission, Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Friday's Friend - Washington Humane Society

Now, here's an interesting, yet really cool story or friends to introduce to you from the Washington Humane Society.

Please meet Daphne and Max!  Don't they look like they are having fun! And, BEST FRIENDS FOREVER- I think this is really cool!

"Max and Daphne"Used by Permission of the Washington Humane Society

 First meet Daphne who is a seven-year-old Dachshund. Now, this is Max, a four-year-old Poodle mix.  These two are bonded buddies yet they came to the Washington Humane Society from two separate homes!

They do everything together—car rides, watching the butterflies, and of course, nighttime snuggles in their crate. Daphne loves to share her doggie kisses, while Max will play fetch ‘til the cows come home!

Since they are such good friends, Daphne and Max are adoptable together for the adoption fee of one dog.

For information about adoption or to visit Daphne and Max, contact, the Washington Humane Society.

Thank you to the Washington Humane Society for providing information for Friday's Friend. 

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

"Zoey - Noah's Cousin"
(C) Allen Pearson

MEOW!!! HAPPY FRIDAY!! This is so cool helping Noah and Max introduce the cats who need "Forever Homes."  In case you haven't met me, my name is Zoey and I'm Noah's cousin from North Carolina.  We thought maybe it'd be easier on the cats if Max and I introduced them.  So I am excited to do my first introduction!  MEOW!!!!!!!!  

I'd like to introduce to you a lovely and unique looking calico who is the mother of seven kittens.  PetConnect Rescue saved them from euthanasia at a shelter in North Carolina and we are all so very relieved!! MEOW!!!!  

"Carole King"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

 Please meet Carole King, a very young girl, maybe one year old, a peaceful soul and a wonderful mother!  She loves to be petted, held and will flop onto her back so you can rub her tummy. 

Carole King is also a super snuggler and she loves to be petted and held. She will flop onto her back so you will rub her tummy. 

Carole's face is angular and she has large ears, so we believe she is mixed with an exotic breed. She has some calico markings and a calico colored tail. 

If you are looking for a sweet and loving cat-companion, Carole King is the kitty for you. Carole is up-to-date on her vetting and she is healthy.   Carole will be spayed before adoption.

For more information, please click here and fill out our online application. We will contact you.

"The Kitties"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

Thank you to PetConnect Rescue for supplying information for Friday's Friend.

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

"Peyton"
Used by Permission of
PetConnect Rescue

My buddy "Boxer Peyton" is who I would like for you to meet this week from PetConnect Rescue. 

Boxer Peyton is an affectionate and very loving 65-pound Boxer/Bulldog mix.  He is loyal and eager to please his human. 


He knows the "sit" and "down" commands. He loves to go on long walks, snuggling and having his belly rubbed. 

Peyton will need a home without cats. He is neutered, crate-trained, up-to-date on all vaccines, microchipped and heartworm negative.

If you would more information on Boxer Peyton to meet him and/or adoption information, please visit, PetConnect Rescue, Adoption Information.

Thank you to PetConnect Rescue for supplying the information for Friday's Friend. 

Friday's Friend - Ambassador Pit Bulls

I look forward to Fridays when I get to introduce you to some dogs and cats looking for their "Forever Home."   Last weekend, my human got an email that a dog which had been with a rescue for awhile and was featured on Friday's Friend, got adopted!!!!  PAWS!!!  Bark!!!

I have a friend from the Ambassador Pit Bulls that I would like for you to meet.  

"Cali"
Used by Permission, Ambassador Pit Bulls

Cali was the victim of a divorce, but she is a calm and very sweet lovebug! 

She's does great with the dogs she's is currently living with and just loves to snuggle and give kisses!!! 

Cali knows basic commands and is fully housebroken. Since she doesn't chew on things she isn't supposed to, Cali can be trusted to be left out of the crate.

If you would like more information about Cali or are interested in adopting, please contact Ambassador Pit Bulls.  

"Adopt Me, Please?"
Used by Permission, Ambassador Pit Bulls

Thank you to the Ambassador Pit Bulls for supplying information for Friday's Friend.

Rescue Groups, Shelters- Do you know about them?

This post if RATED PG. If you aren’t 14 or older, please get your parents before proceeding. BARK!!! BARK!!!!! R-R-RUFF-F-F-F!!!!

If you’ve been following the news recently, you may have heard about a dog being tied to the railroad tracks in California. For those who haven’t read the story, here’s a link to it, Train Engineer Saves Dog. PAWS TO THE ENGINEER of the TRAIN!!

Later, I read where the man claims he didn't know about rescues that would take his dog and place it in a home which could take care of it. That’s very barkingly pawing to me. So, I decided to paw a quick post so others who don’t know might know and if they know but someone they know doesn’t know they can let them know, you know?!

"Aren't I Adorable- Adopt Me!"
(C) Allen Pearson

Around this wonderful country of ours are many rescue groups which focus on a variety of goals. Some are specific to a breed, such as Lab-Rescue or a German Shepherd Rescue, Ambassador Pit Bulls and believe it or not, even Plott Hound Rescues . Then, there are the great groups like PetConnect Rescue or Operation Paws for Homes which don’t specialize in specific breeds but do their best to find “Forever Homes” for as many paws as they can. I mention these two simply because I photograph and write for them on a regular basis.

An excellent resource for rescues can be found at Pet Finder or American Kennel Club. Pawingly, there are a number of shelters, including ASPCA’s, which will take in dogs and cats of every kind.  Most county or city governments operate shelters to keep animals under control, Washington Humane Society or Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, which also can mean taking in unwanted pets or in some cases pets you are not able to take care of.

"A Dog Waiting Adoption"
(C) Allen Pearson

If you don’t have access to a computer, ask your veterinarian to help you find someone, or a rescue or a shelter which can help care for your pet until another home is found.

As most of you already know, I am a rescued dog who ended up rescuing two humans during a crazy time in their lives.  So, the fact that I was given up, turned into something good for someone else.  I can’t guarantee these things will happen to every dog and cat given up, but you never know. 

PAWS TO YOU rescue groups, shelters, ASPCA, and all the many numerous volunteers who dedicate their time to help animals in need.  Keep up the great work!!!

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

"Jacob"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

Well, if I had a brother or even some puppies of my own I'd say I'm related to this pup. This guy I am about to introduce to you is almost as adorable as me.  Note the almost!  Bark!!!!

Please meet Jacob from PetConnect Rescue!!

Jacob is a handsome pup, a 12 week old Lab mix pup, who weighs about 14 lbs.

Jacob is very playful and eager to please. If you are looking for an adorable sweet natured dog to adopt, then Jacob is it!

He is working on crate training and housebreaking at his foster' house and doing well. He gets along just fine with other dogs, children and is very curious about the cat.

If you would like more information about adopting Jacob, please visit PetConnect Rescue, Adoption Info.

"Jacob"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

Thank you to PetConnect Rescue for supplying the information for today's Friday's Friend. 

Friday's Friend - Operation Paws For Homes

Happy Friday- I have been waiting anxiously for this weekend to arrive- my human will turn 50 soon and he's joining the seniors group at church for a dinner on Saturday night- hee hee.  I have to find a way to tease him about it.

A friend from Operation Paws for Homes introduced me to a wonderful dog looking for a "Forever Home" this week and I'd like to introduce you to Angel!

"Angel"
(C) Michael Garth Photography
Used by Permission

Angel is a small, adult German Pinscher. Don't let the small 15 pounds size fool you, she's a pretty awesome little dog!!!  She house trained,  enjoys snuggling, and makes a great running partner!  Angel would a fabulous family dog because she LOVES people and would like nothing more than to have her own family and/or doggy siblings to run around outside and play.

"Angel"
(C) Michael Garth Photography
Used by Permission

Being only 4 years young she's still got a lot of spring in her step but does enjoying napping and cuddle sessions in your lap. She gets along well with most other dogs and can live with cats though 

she doesn't have much interest in playing with them. 

A smart girl who is treat motivated so they say I'm a quick learner.  Angel has  already mastered sit and is working on a few other tricks.

Angel is spayed, up to date on all my vaccinations, and is currently living in Lovetsville, VA with her foster family. 

Want more information on adopting Angel?  Please visit, Operation Paws for Homes, Adoption Guide.

Thank you to Operation Paws for Homes and Micheal Garth Photography for supplying information for today's Friday's Friend.

Friday's Friend - Operation Paws For Homes

Happy Friday- end of a long week for me.  Last weekend I was so busy with my human and then we had stuff to do all week, like gardening, mowing the yard and swimming.  I think this weekend will be a little less hectic and I can get some rest!!

I've got a few special dogs from Operation Paws for Homes to introduce you to today.  I'd like you to meet Brandi and Whiskey!!

"Whisky and Brandi"
(c) Michael Garth Photography
Used by Permission

Brandi & Whiskey are quite the pair! A brother and sister duo from South Carolina. They were saved from an owner who could no longer care for her dogs due to health reasons. A majority of the time they were housed outside in all kinds of horrible conditions, but they found love and comfort in being bonded together.

Since being brought to Virginia, it's been discovered that Whiskey is partially blind in one eye. Brandi has been basically helping him through life and being an extra set of eyes for her brother! Is that cool or what??

Brother and sister are about a year old and small/medium beagle/hound mixes. Brandi is the smaller weighing about 30-35lbs with Whiskey being a bit larger. They are calm easy going dogs who sometimes think they are lap dogs. 

"Whisky and Brandi"
(c) Michael Garth Photography
Used by Permission

The duo live closely with two young children and are doing amazing with them! Since much of their previous life was spent outside, sometimes it's a bit harder to get them inside but they are learning to love being in a house with heat and their foster family. Each dog is doing great with house training skills, they haven't torn anything up after being left uncrated while their foster family is out, and they are also adapting nicely to being on leashes. 

Brandi and Whiskey have both done well around other animals, but due to Whiskey being partially blind he might take some time adjusting to a new environment. Whiskey is a funny dog, his favorite toy is a squeaky mouse that he howls at and Brandi definitely thinks she is a lap dog more than not! 

Brandi and Whiskey are both altered and up-to-date on all shots. They are currently fostered in Fredericksburg, VA.

If you would like more information on about these two great dogs, please visit Operation Paws for Homes, Adoption.

Thank you to Operation Paws for Homes and Michael Garth Photography for supplying information for Friday's Friend.  

History of Crufts

A History of Crufts | Vet Medic Pharmacy

Be the Change for Animals - From A Rescued Dog's View

"Noah, Pawthor of "From the Dogs Paw"
(C) Allen Pearson

Be the Change for Animals means helping a dog like me, who someone else gave up on, have a second chance to enjoy life.  Through no fault of my own, I became a stray and ended up at a “high-kill” shelter.  Those words still frighten me today! 

Thankfully, in 2009, a lady at PetConnect Rescue in Potomac, Maryland saw my name and profile on the “k---“ list.  I can’t say the word, but you know what I mean.  I was scared and terrified.  How did a great dog like me end up like that?!  I can’t explain it and words escape me. 

When she saw me, she thought I would make a great pet for someone.  She says my picture got her attention and she “just knew.” Though I probably look scared, I gave it all I had so I might not have to be, well, you know.  Thankfully, she took me.

I was still uneasy and scared as the details to get me from North Carolina to Maryland still had to be worked out.  It was too long of a ride in a car or van or even a truck.  They weren’t too sure how it would work out. 

Paws N Pilots came to my rescue.  A small plane piloted by a human who loves animals and was giving of his time to take me to Maryland.  PAWS TO YOU!!   The ride was kinda scary as I peeked out the window and saw the earth further down or away from me than it was!  And, what I thought was fog was clouds!  We made it safe.  I was skinny, scared and a bit shaken but happy to be somewhere getting a second chance.   I didn’t have to worry about the “k” word for now. 

The people from PetConnect Rescue took me in like an old friend.  I never felt so welcomed.  They got me food, water and some necessary medical attention.

It wasn’t too long before my face was up on a website of some kind so a human can look at me and possibly adopt me.  I had a few interests and some visits but no one adopted me.  The “k” came into my mind a few times but I didn’t worry because it seemed that the lady I was staying with really loved me and would keep the word away. 

"A Cat from PetConnect Rescue"
(C) Allen Pearson

In December 2009, my human found me and I found them.  It was my mom human who loved me first.  I knew she had to love me since she’s not quite as crazy as the male human is, about dogs that is.  It worked and I went home with them.   My new life started out great and is still going great- I have both humans wrapped around my paws.

I was curious about the volunteers at PetConnect Rescue and why they would do what they do when they do what they do, so I contacted “Cat Lady” who rescues the kitties and cats over the years.  She’s kept in touch with me and didn't mind telling me why she does what she does.

“Since adopting my first kitten at the age of six, 

I have always loved cats. They have been a part of my life 

since that time and I currently share my home with 3 cats 

(Brussels, Bombay & Gracie) and a foster kitten named Brook.

I started fostering kittens for Montgomery County Humane, before joining PetConnect Rescue in 2010. I knew that when I retired from working

full time that I wanted to volunteer for a group that shared 

my passion for helping animals. PetConnect Rescue strives to be

a best-in-class animal rescue organization dedicated to helping

cats and dogs in need. Our highly valued, compassionate

and dedicated volunteers are committed to rescuing adoptable

at-risk cats and dogs from high-kill shelters, placing them in loving 

foster homes, providing medical care and thoughtfully placing them

with caring adopter(s). We all love what we do!” says Cat Lady!

There you have it. Humans loving what they do and it’s being the change for animals. Thankfully, this group, it’s dogs and cats.

Friday's Friend - Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.

I've visit the Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc. this week and met two dogs who I would like you to meet.  They are looking for their "Forever Home" and companion(s) to do fun stuff with!

Please meet Midnight and Gunner.

"Midnight and Gunner"
Used by Permission of the Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Midnight and Gunner are a bonded pair of labs that must be adopted together! These two are like peanut butter and jelly, great on their own, even better together! 

Midnight is a 6 year old black spayed female who weighs 69 lbs. Gunner is a 7 year old male yellow lab who weighs 79 lbs and should gain 5-8 lbs. 

Midnight and Gunner are good with other dogs and cats and are approved for kids aged 4 and up. Midnight is a sweet girl with a wonderful personality and Gunner is a beautiful boy with a big, blocky head. They are crate trained, and will go into their crates when you tell them to "kennel up,"  They enjoy walking on a leash walking the hike/bike trails. While both enjoy retrieving, Midnight isn't too interested in swimming, and Gunner enjoys a good swim.

For more information, please visit Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc..

"Gunner and Midnight"
Used by Permission of Lab Rescue of L.R.C.P., Inc.

Friday's Friend - Washington Humane Society

Hello and HAPPY FRIDAY!!  Thanks Max for introducing the cat available for adoption.  I have caught up with The Washington Humane Society this week and would you to meet a cool dog named Hugo-

"Hugo"
Used by Permission of the Washington
Humane Society

Now that spring is here, you need a companion to enjoy the warm weather fun!!! Hugo will be there right by your side. Hugo is a two-year-old pit bull terrier type dog.

He will win you over with one big sloppy smile and a wag of his tail. Hugo had to have his ear canals removed due to an ear infection, so he doesn’t hear well. He’s been through a long healing process and is ready for a forever home.

Hugo gets along with children and would do well with a dog buddy of the right match. Meet him at the New York Avenue Adoption Center today! Or, call 202-727-5494.

Thank you to the Washington Humane Society for providing information for Friday's Friend. 

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

MEOW!!!!  MEOW!!!!!  HAPPY FRIDAY!  Guess you didn't expect to hear that from Noah. Well, that's because it's me, Max.  I'll be introducing you to this week's Friday's Friend that happens to be a great cat!!  Not the greatest, as the would be ME, MAX, but right close to me.

I met Noah's friend "Cat Lady" from PetConnect Rescue this week and I want to introduce to you, TWITCH!  He reminds me a bit of Cousin Noah because of his handsome black coat!!

"Twitch"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

Twitch is a stitch! One of PetConnect Rescue's funniest kitties!  He is a total sweetheart who has a big personality and a sense of humor (really)! Twitch announced himself at the shelter by reaching out and tapping a PetConnect Rescue volunteer.

This guy is really cool, he adores being petted and will sometimes "grab" your hand or arm with both front paws to pull it back to him if you finish petting him before he wants you to!! And he never uses his claws, so this is a gentle and funny trait. Twitch is a sweet and goofy boy who is more "dog" than "cat." Twitch will escort you during your morning routine and really enjoys shadowing his human. He is very snugly and rolls onto his back while being petted - just like a dog.

Twitch gets along well with dogs, cats, and people of all sizes. Twitch constantly twitches his tail, but unlike other cats, he twitches his tail when he is happy! He is healthy, affectionate, and loves to play like a kitten with his toys.

For more information on Twitch, please click here and fill out our online application, and we will contact you.

"Twitch"
Used by Permission of PetConnect Rescue

Thank you to PetConnect Rescue for supplying the information for Friday's Friend.

Meet Our Writers - Zoey and Max

"Max and Zoey"(C) Allen Pearson

I would like to welcome my cousins Zoey and Max to my team of writers.  They will be assisting me with the cat side of my work as needed and they are available.  Currently, they have their paws full trying to keep my "crazy aunt that your mother warned you about" (my human told me about her) out of trouble. I understand it's almost as big of a challenge as it is for me to keep my human busy and out of trouble, but at least my uncle helps them. er. WOOF!  Don't mention that to my human.  The picture below on the right is the two after a day with "Crazy Aunt!"

I asked "Crazy Aunt" to share about them with us, "Max and Zoey were born on October 30, 2011. We purchased them from a breeder in Florida on January 18, 2012. They are full breed Siberian Seal Point tabby. We purchased this breed because of allergies. They are hypoallergenic and work great for us.

"Max and Zoey Napping"
(C) Allen Pearson

Max and Zoey have been a real joy to us. They are very affectionate and love their pet parents. 

They love to play games. Zoey fetches a piece of small rolled up paper. She will play this game as long as you have energy. Max like to play tug of war with a rope.

They have dog like personalities (uh, key point here- no wonder they are so cool!!). They follow us from room to room and love to be petted and cuddle in your lap.

They are beautiful blue eyed cats. With long beautiful white fur with Brown markings and so full of energy. Wouldn't trade them for anything."

I'd like to thank my "Crazy Aunt" and my uncle for allowing Max and Zoey to help me with my work. You'll hear more from Max and Zoey as time goes on!

"Max and Zoey Resting"
(C) Allen Pearson

 

Friday's Friend - Washington Humane Society

Happy Friday!!!  Oops!  Excuse me... RUFF! RUFF! RUFF! RUFF!! BARK!! BARK!!! Oh. Excuse - sorry this isn't breakfast or brunch being brought to me - I thought what a great way to start my weekend- BUNNY'S! 

Oh. These were brought to me as Friends from the Washington Humane Society to introduce to you today- good thing my human was here and paying attention- I was ready for my breakfast!!   Please meet Micky and Rory.......

"Mickey and Rory"
(C) Used by Permission
of the Washington Humane
Society

Mickey and Rory are two delicious appetizers which when adding just a hint of pepper spice..... oops!  excuse me again.... my dog-self gets carried away sometimes.... these two bunny brothers are looking for a new audience. 

If you are not able to have a dog or cat in your home, maybe you can adopt these bunny's!  

Families with older children tend to enjoy their shows more, and they like to be paid in hay and vegetables. Want to book this dynamic duo on a permanent basis? Come to the Georgia Avenue Adoption Center today (7319 Georgia Avenue, NW) or call 202-723-5730.

If you visit these two, PLEASE tell them, I was a good dog and introduced the breakfast delicacies, er, bunny's very politely.  But, seriously, if you are interested in more information on these two Bunny Brothers, please visit Washington Humane Society.

Thank you to the Washington Humane Society for providing the information for Mickey and Rory for Friday's Friend.  

Additional barks and slobbers are all mine, Noah, are not meant to reflect the opinion of WHS. And, NO Bunnies were hurt in this story. 

Friday's Friend - PetConnect Rescue

"Cat Lady"
(C) Allen Pearson

RUFF! RUFF!!! BARK!!! Lick!! Lick!!!  It is so great to catch up with my buddy and friend "Cat Lady" from PetConnect Rescue.  This is her in the photo holding another cat- she does a great job with our cat friends!

Today, she's brought me a friend named Maverick to introduce to you! 

Please meet Maverick!!  According to the "Cat Lady,"  Maverick is a cute, chubby, silver grey Maverick loves being around people and greets everyone by 

"Maverick"
Used by permission of PetConnect Rescue

rubbing against legs. 

Strictly an inside cat, and an extremely loving boy who is good with children, 4 yr old Maverick will make an awesome addition to a family with kids and/or a work/stay-at-home human. 

He is what we call a "dog cat." Maverick will greet you when you come home and will provide you with plenty of unconditional love. 

Maverick is neutered, healthy, and up-to-date on all vaccinations.

If you would like to visit Maverick or obtain more information about Adoption procedures, fees, and applications may be viewed by clicking here.

"Maverick"
Used by permission of PetConnect Rescue

Thank you Cat Lady and PetConnect Rescue for supplying information for Friday's Friend. 

Friday's Friends - Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Hey- my friends from the Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.  have brought by a friend for me to introduce to you today. A yellow Labrador Retriever for you to meet.

"Quincy"
Used by Permission, Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Please meet Quincy, a 7 year old neutered male. He is up to date on his shots and is heartworm negative. He is good with other dogs but thinks cats are fun to chase! He likes to throw a tennis ball for himself. He is approved for kids aged 10 and up.

At 81 lbs., Quincy loves a good rub and will sit all day long if you pet him. (sounds like me!)  He is very low key but is getting more alert and more interested in squirrels, cats and little critters.He walks well on a leash.

He loves his Lab buddies and needs to go to a home with at least one other dog. If there is room on a dog bed, he will snuggle up close to one of the other dogs! At the foster home where he's staying, he's endeared himself to their female dog , so that she shares her bones with him!

Quincy its and waits patiently at mealtime for his food and takes treats —oh, so gently! He isn't demanding, and is happy for whatever good things you can give him. It’s as if, after his hard life, he isn't quite sure he deserves all these good things, but he’s very happy to have them!

Sounds like to me, a great dog to have around.  If you would like to know more about Quincy, please visit  Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc., Adoption Center . 

"Quincy"
Used by Permission, Lab Rescue of the L.R.C.P., Inc.

Meet Our Writers- Dr. Steve Velling

"Dr. Steve Velling"
Used by permission of
Ashburn Village Animal Hospital

Well, my friend Dakota is going to really wonder about me now- being friends with a veterinarian and allowing him to write for my blog!!

Well, this guy is so really cool. He was my first veterinarian and I got to meet him within the first few days of being adopted by my humans.   They love him because he is so human and kind to them and to the animals he care for.  And he really, really cares.  Being so scared at all the new surroundings I was going through with my new family, Dr. Velling made me feel welcome and loved- a nice gift after all my travels and journey to get where I am.  He's not in the veterinarian business just for the money or been in so long that I would be just a client number to him.

Knowing his love and passion for animals, I pawed an invitation to him to write for my blog whenever he would like.  Right now, he writes the monthly feature, "The Critter Corner."

Here is a bit about Dr. Steve Velling: "He earned his Bachelor's degree in Zoology (1988) and his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (1992) from the University of California at Davis.

After he graduated, he joined the Peace Corps.  He worked with the local government in Morocco to help eradicate rabies. After returning to the United States, he began working at a busy small animal practice in Southern California.

Three years later, Dr. Velling and his family moved to Northern Virginia to be closer to his wife's family and to have a better place to raise their children. In July of 1998, he fufilled his dream of owning his own practice when he officially opened the doors to Ashburn Village Animal Hospital.  My humans were clients #14 but with a different dog and a cat.

Dr. Velling has two Welsh Corgies, Copper and Rusty, and one kitten, Jill. He likes to spend time with his family, travel, and participate in sports.

We thank Dr. Velling for the great work he does caring for animals, not just dogs and cats, at Ashburn Village Animal Hospital and for writing "Critter Corner."

"Dr. Velling and his Corgies"
Used by permission of
Dr. Steve Velling