SARAH SCHELLENBERG
Co-Owner
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSIONAL DOG EXPERIENCE?
I took a course through a private college where I gained the knowledge that secured my position as a Veterinary Assistant. Through years of working in a Veterinary Hospital I gained a lot of emergency and medical knowledge about dogs, as well as processes that are used in hospitals. I worked as a dog trainer for over 3 years, and after apprenticing under a certified dog trainer was able to host obedience classes and do some private training for mild behavioural issues. I learned the power of positive reinforcement training and continue my education in dog training and behaviour. I managed a pet retail store which granted me a lot of nutritional knowledge as well as different behavioural concerns that affect the average pet owner. Finally, through managing a prominent dog daycare, I learned a lot about dog behaviour, their needs, their reactions, and what it takes to manage groups safely .
WHO ARE YOUR PET(S), AND WHAT ARE THEIR PERSONALITIES?
I have a 15 year old Australian Shepherd X named Chuck Norris. He is my best friend, and a 10/10 good boy. One of his favourite things is meeting new dogs. He is excellent at this because of his natural calm confidence and innate ability to read other dogs (and cats!). He became my “working dog” because of his personality. I have a 9 year old Min Pin named Dobby who was rescued from a very rough living situation and has a lot of lifelong insecurities and fear. But through his brother Chuck, Dobby gained a lot of confidence in the daycare environment and he loves playing with other small dogs as well as having controlled play and interactions with larger dogs. Dobby also has a resentment towards puppies of any size or breed. Because of this, his interactions with them are limited and always supervised closely. I also have a 6 year old fluffy and gorgeous cat who was surrendered to a rescue when she was found living outside a property and not looking very healthy. She has thrived in my home and lives a life she loves now full of endless cuddles, sun beams, treats, regular meals and her favourite catnip filled toys. She loves her dogs, and does well with dogs who respect her space.
WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF DOGS BEGIN?
From as young as I can remember I have been drawn to dogs. I remember being about 6-7 years old and sitting with my Aunt & Uncle’s dogs in their dog house. My Aunt and Uncle would always say their dogs never used their dog houses until I came around. I begged my parents my entire childhood to get us a dog and at 12, those whines and cries were responded to and our family got a Springer Spaniel. She really solidified my love of dogs and within months of turning 18, I went to the Winnipeg Humane Society and I adopted my best friend. A then 6-8 month old Australian Shepherd mix. Chuck Norris has been by my side now for over 14 years.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART ABOUT WORKING WITH DOGS?
I love meeting dogs, and learning their personalities. I love seeing how they interact with other dogs, as well as with people. I love seeing the dynamics between dog friends. I love being able to watch a dog understand something new, learn a new behaviour. It’s hard to
pick a single favourite part! All the parts, except poop and vomit pickup, are my favourite! I am a sucker for dogs who, on the surface, seem harder to love. The oddballs, the nervous nellies and the seniors.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO WORK WITH DOGS?
From a very young age I knew I loved animals and knew that I wanted to be able to make a living working with them. While I was figuring out in what capacity that would be, I worked at a Veterinary Clinic as a Veterinary Assistant for 2 years, worked as the manager of a pet retail store for 2 years, and was the General Manager of a prominent dog daycare for nearly 3 years. These jobs solidified my love of dogs, and being able to work with them. I love the different personalities that dogs have, and I love watching their behaviours and interactions.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE BREED?
I have a few breeds that I am drawn to. I have a soft spot for sheepdog/poodle crosses, Min Pins, odd looking Terriers (Bedlington, Airedale, Fox, etc) and Chihuahuas. But I also love a mutt. One that makes it hard to guess what is mixed in. I like a unique dog!
WHAT ANIMAL DO YOU IDENTIFY MOST WITH?
I have a deep-seated love for owls, cows, raccoons and large cats (all of these animals are also tattoos I have). I would say that I identify much with a house cat. I like what I like but only when I like it, I’m pretty set in my ways and taste, I’m often hungry and I thoroughly
enjoy afternoon naps.