12/27/2021
To The Best Dog Family Ever,
As many of you know, I spent last winter not working and focusing on trying to get healthy. In May 2021 I went back to work part-time. After months of agonizingly trying to balance work and health I, and my family, have come to realize that I’m too sick to work. If you saw me on the street you’d most likely think I look fine. Mostly I hear, “you look great.” Having an invisible illness and disability is extremely difficult.
The reality is I am really sick with 3 incurable blood disorders that are quite disabling and only get worse, causing more disabilities, over time. I’ve sustained injuries that won’t heal and live with a compromised immune system. Managing disabilities requires constant growth, adaptation, learning and change.
The end of 2021 marks 35 years of starting, growing and owning The Dog School (originally called Canine K - 12). 23 of those years I had the joy, honor and pleasure of teaching Canine Behavior at UVM. I LOVE YOU STUDENTS!!!!! 12 of those years I was an Animal Control Officer. I wrote a book that was published in 2007. I had a large training facility for over 25 years with dozens of interns, employees and volunteers. I’ve trained numerous people to become dog trainers and a special few I’ve taught to be a Behaviorist, like me. I’ve given lectures and seminars all over the country. I ran a Border Collie rescue for 10 years and helped start others. I taught classes and volunteered at The Humane Society of Chittenden County. I’ve fostered and rehabilitated 100’s of dogs. I’ve loved 1,000’s and owned dozens.
Sadly, this year ends with my closing The Dog School. I had hoped to find someone to buy the house and boarding business (anyone interested?) but I must stop working now.
I wish all the best for you and your dogs. Closing the business is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. You are my extended dog family. I’ve watched your kids grow, you watched my daughter Halle grow up and join the family business - she assisted me in teaching an agility class when she was 7 years old. The same age I was when I trained my first dog. You accepted Mahayla as part of The Dog School family while Halle and I welcomed Mahayla into our home and the business. We’ve followed each other’s lives for 35 YEARS!!!!! That’s a long time.
I’m blessed to say I think I’ve had the best job in the world! I will miss all of you and all of your dogs.
With the warmest regards,
🐕💜Jamie
