Toni Arrowsmith, UW-AAB
Being a lifelong animal lover and advocate, I love animals of all shapes and sizes, but it is the ones with special needs or the ones who are overlooked, that bring so much joy and sparkle to my life. I'm the proud pet parent to a deaf rescue pup, Brixton and rescue kitties Ruby and Suds.
I have always had a soft spot and been an advocate for pit bull type dogs. So much so, that I used to volunteer at PAWS on the Pittie Committee, which focuses on reducing the stress of these dogs and keeping them highly adoptable during their stay at the shelter, by providing additional in-shelter enrichment, training and off site adventures. Since adopting my dog, Brixton and witnessing firsthand the public’s negative perception of pits, I became even more inspired to educate, advocate and encourage people to be more open minded about these misrepresented and misunderstood souls. Though so many of these dogs continue to endure discrimination, abuse and neglect, they remain true to their nature - they are resilient, loyal, forgiving, cuddly wonder pups that have endless love to give.
Working in the animal rescue community has given me the opportunity to work with animals with all types of personalities and behavioral issues, including the shy and fearful, the ones with separation anxiety and reactivity. I have cared for many senior and special needs pets, many of which require administering oral medication, injections and subcutaneous fluids. I also have experience with hospice fostering - while it can be heartbreaking, it is worth it knowing that you are giving a critically ill animal a loving home in their final days.
My passion for animals, along with understanding the care that is involved with caring for each animal as an individual is what sets me apart. I take a patient approach with every animal to build trust at their pace and tailor my care to each individual animal using only force free, positive reinforcement training methods. I would love to care for your pet while you're away and I can assure that they would receive the care, love and companionship that I would give my own furry kiddos.
