To say I’ve been a dog lover all my life is an understatement. I live to love dogs. There has always been something in those wiggle butts that lights me up inside. Ever since I was born, we always had dogs. Beagles to be exact. I have the fondest memories playing with our pups in the backyard, singing original songs to them, cuddling and laughing at their sometimes-deafening howls. They were my best friends and my brothers and sisters. I watched them grow from tiny pups to senior dogs and grieved when they passed. They were a huge part of our family and I learned how to be a responsible care giver and companion. To this day, my brow furrows when people tell me they never had a dog or don’t like dogs. I really just can’t comprehend those statements.

My love for animals eventually landed me in a position at a local veterinarian’s office working in the kennels and hospital. I learned so much during that time and that’s also when I first became a foster… to a kitten! I know! But the love I had for “Stinky” was so great, when he was adopted cried for days. The ugly, snotty nose cry. But I still foster and cry every time one leaves. It is simultaneously the hardest and most rewarding feeling you could ever have.

In college I was a pre-vet major that never got into vet school. I think they could sense the rescuer inside of me! Not being accepted was a blessing in disguise because it has led me here. Ending up in Livingston Parish was the path I feel was always planned for me. Believe me, as a NOLA girl through and through, I never thought I would end up here. Many variables fell into place and literally steered me in this direction. Starting Dog People of Livingston is my dream realized and I have great expectations for myself, this organization and the people of Livingston.

Together we can make this the best place to be a dog!

Hope you will join us,

Lynell

Founder, Dog People of Livingston 8/2013