The decision to start my own company, K9 Social Club, was not born out of a desire for entrepreneurial success but from a heartfelt need to address a problem that had affected our beloved Beagle. 

Our journey began when my son, Anthony, had been visiting a pet shop near his campus while he was dorming at University at Albany. He missed his dog back home. He found our Beagle at a local pet shop, a place where all the dogs were caged, barking, whining, and crying—an environment far from ideal for any animal's well-being. These dogs were not receiving the socialization crucial for their mental development. Socialization is imperative for young dogs, setting the foundation for their behavior and emotional state. Being that Murphy was already eight months old  and had spend almost all of his puppyhood in this distressing situation, Anthony decided to buy Murphy, providing him with the chance to live a happier life.

By the time Murphy came to live with our family, he was one year old and not well-adjusted. His early life in a cage had left him scared of other dogs. This fear manifested in reactive behavior, making it challenging for him to enjoy normal dog interactions. Seeing Murphy's fear and knowing the importance of socialization, I decided to rehabilitate him. Using positive reinforcement and exposure to nice, friendly, well-adjusted dogs, we worked diligently with Murphy. I knew he was a smart dog; Anthony had already trained him to do many tricks and follow numerous commands, which gave me hope that he would be responsive to further training. His love for food made the training process more manageable, as I could use treats to reinforce positive behavior. To help Murphy gain friends and improve his social skills, I began walking dogs. This not only provided Murphy with companionship but also allowed me to see the broader need for such services in our community. This realization led to the creation of K9 Social Club, a business dedicated to walking and boarding dogs. Socialization is a fundamental aspect of a dog's life, contributing to their happiness and well-being. By offering walking and boarding services, we provide dogs with the opportunity to interact, play, and form friendships in a safe, supervised, and nurturing environment. 

The journey with Murphy taught me the importance of patience, love, and proper socialization for dogs. Starting K9 Social Club has been a rewarding experience, driven by the desire to help Murphy and other dogs like him. It is a reminder that everyone, even our furry friends, needs a friend. ❤️