Growing up, I always had a deep commitment and love for the well-being of all animals. Whether I was volunteering at local animal shelters, sneaking any stray animal I could into my mothers house, where there were animals to be nurtured, there is where you could find me.  However, towering above all of these loves was my love for dogs. All I wanted to do was be around them. I would spend time training my family's dog, a Jack Russell named Whittie, to do elaborate tricks, or take the neighbors' dogs for long hikes throughout the trails of my hometown. I was keen to befriend any dog lucky enough to cross my path. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that my passion for animals would turn into my dream career. That was until a very special lady came along. Two years ago, she came into my life and changed everything.

 

            Chanel is a three year old mutt that I rescued in 2012. I like to say that I rescued her, but really, she saved me. It was a series of cosmic forces that brought her into my life, and I will forever be indebted to her for this. I'm not quite sure of her exact breed,  but I'm almost positive she's part labrador, part rottweiler, part miracle. From the first day I brought her home, I could tell that she was different. She was so sweet and gentle. I have never in my life met a being so tuned-in to the energy of others. People would always stop us on our walks to comment on her presence and how "lovely" she was. Chanel never wanted anything more than to be by my side from the first day I got her, so I made sure that's where she stayed. I now have my friend that I want to explore the world with. From backpacking, to rock climbing, to sitting in on university lectures, and everything in between, Chanel has been my unwavering rock, pushing me to grow, and coming along for the ride--always with a wagging tail.

 

            It is because of her that I have created Trailheads and Tails. Chanel has taught me of the importance of being outdoors, and of being present with Mother Nature. It has become a sort of spiritual path for me. She is a better dog because of it, too. I can't wait to share these experiences with our client's dogs, and hopefully some of our clients as well, on the Master and Dog Hikes.

 

           Because she is so calming and uplifting, Chanel touches the lives of everyone she meets. Knowing that, I jumped on the opportunity to have her evaluated as a Therapy Dog. It's really no surprise, but she passed with flying colors. Now, we work as a team volunteering through the St John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program. We get to visit all types of people who just light up whenever Chanel is around. You can read more about our St. John Ambulance adventures