Our Journey…
I brought Kohshi home in 2007 while assigned overseas in the military. After returning to the United States, I found Saisho. These two fulfilled my life, shared my ups and downs, and were absolutely the better part of me. In 2019, Kohshi passed away from an acute onset autoimmune disorder. With his passing, I lost a part of my soul. In 2022, Saisho passed away following complications from a spinal injury just a few months shy of her 14th birthday. With her passing, I lost a part of my heart.
All of a sudden, I was no longer a dog mom…
Saisho & Kohshi, 2016 *
My family encouraged me to explore the pet industry as a part of my grieving process. I took a part-time job working with a local animal hospital as a kennel assistant and was quickly promoted to team lead–responsible for staff training, supervising, and caring for the animals on weekends and holidays. Amongst the chaos of working full time for the military, part time with the animal hospital, and researching the pet industry, I found my passion for animal care increasing exponentially. The animal hospital taught me so much and I found a sense of belonging with others who were like-minded. I started seriously considering the pet industry as a part of my future.
On Veteran’s Day weekend in 2022, I adopted Zaffre and Larkspur from SPCA Wake County. Wanting the kittens to have their best life, I chose to attend the Animal Behavior College and gained my certification as a Professional Cat Trainer in July 2023. We grew together as a family. I would learn a new concept through my program and the kitten’s reaped the benefits of exploring the best way to implement the training. Now, Zaffre loves playing fetch, loves going outside in his harness, and thoroughly enjoys belly rubs with his brush. Larkspur is the queen of the castle, she greets me at the door every day, visits me before bed every night, and loves her jungle gyms throughout the house.
By November 2023, I became a Certified Professional Pet Sitter, completed my Fear Free Certification, joined industry renowned associations, and began studying various elements of pet care while my family steadily grew. As I continued my education, I provided friends and family Cat Training focused on household introductions (Cat to Cat & Cat to Dog) in my free time. We have had outstanding success with each experience and they are all now enjoying happily integrated households full of love and enrichment.
Larkspur, Jura, Islay, & Zaffre, 2024 **
In December 2023, I welcomed our first (but not last) canine companion. Islay danced her way into our home with nothing but sass and character. And by August 2024, I had opened Blue Isle Pet Cottages and Jura became our final addition. He brings all the wiggles, cuddles and personality one could ask for! With a household full of energy, we have had to learn how to integrate training into our daily lifestyle. Jura and Larkspur are close allies in keeping everyone entertained, while Islay and Zaffre prefer the calm comforts of blankies and their own specific toys. We couldn’t be happier as a family and face every day as a new adventure!
As I start this new chapter following my military retirement, I am excited about the future and the possibility to make a difference. Starting with Cat Training and Accessories allows me the opportunity to say farewell to my military career while pursuing additional education relevant to the pet industry. In the years to come, I hope to achieve my ultimate dream of turning Blue Isle Pet Cottages into a brick & mortar location where families can find training, education, and eventually long term pet accommodations. I look forward to meeting you along the way!
* Many thanks to Figabella Photography & Photo Restoration in Newark, Delaware for the amazing photos of my fur family in 2017. Please check out their pet photography services at Figabella Photography & Photo Restoration!
**Many thanks to McCormack & Co Photography in Cary, North Carolina for the amazing photos of my fur family in 2024. Please check out their pet photography services at McCormack & Co Photography!