Lydia Best, Everything and the Dog / Photography by Jonathan Timmes
DOG WALKER
Lydia Best, Everything and the Dog
Lydia Best decided to start her own company in 2003, after finding it difficult to leave her beloved English bulldog, Daisy, alone while away on vacation or business. From there, her dog walking and pet-sitting company proved to proffer services many people would come to both trust and appreciate. Staying true to its name, Everything and the Dog offers everything from homecare to pet care, even errands. According to Best, the company’s success results from their compassion for both people and pets. “We truly love what we do,” she said. “I think that passion shines through to our clients.” 39202 Mount Gilead Road, Leesburg; 703-587-4410; www.everythingandthedog.com.—LB
ADOPTION CENTER
Humane Society of Fairfax
For more than 39 years, this adoption center has been offering up time and energy to saving the lives of thousands of homeless and abused animals. Not only does the Humane Society of Fairfax house and care for abandoned animals, but volunteers work to raise money and awareness for their causes with newsletters and donation sales. 4057 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax; 703-385-7387; www.hsfc.org.—LB
Bunny Lu Adoptions, Inc / Photography by Jonathan Timmes
ADOPTION CENTER Editor’s Pick
Bunny Lu Adoptions, Inc.
The third most popular pet in the country, according to founder Mary Ellen Glover, is also one of the most disposable. Rabbits, most often the victims of buyer’s remorse, find their way every year into homes and Easter baskets. What Glover refers to as “owner surrenders” are the very inspiration for her shelter. Born in the year of the rabbit, Glover names allergies and loss of interest as additional reasons many families abandon their bunnies, or worse, attempt to set them free. What people don’t realize, Glover said, is “you’re making it food for something else.” As the only rabbit rescue and adoption center above the Richmond line, Bunny Lu is as unique as it is noteworthy. 4280 Padgett Drive, Haymarket; 703-753-0833; www.bunnylu.org.—VS
DAY CARE
Fur-Get Me Not
Owner Tammy Rosen founded Fur-Get Me Not in 2000 and has since grown the business enormously with a vast variety of solutions to pet-related problems. The company provides pet-sitting, dog walking, boarding, supplies and bathing services. And a dedication to satisfaction seems to be consistently take priority above all else; Rosen said she firmly believes in partnering with her customers to ensure successful results for their four-pawed best friends. “We make sure that every dog has a good experience.” 4140 S. Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington; 703-933-1935; www.furgetmenot.com.—LB
FOOD
DogGone Natural
Owner and pet nutritionist Kim Mrozinski strives to offer her customers the finest in affordable pet food. According to Mrozinski, who examines every product they sell, nutrition and safety are top concerns. “I know my products, (and) I know what a pet’s diet should be.” 20693 #130 Ashburn Road, Ashburn; 703-858-1112; www.doggonenatural.com.—LB
Ashburn Farm Aniaml Hospital
GROOMER
Canine Carousel, Herndon
This family-owned and -operated pet salon and boutique was first started in 1977 by certified master groomer Lil Lewis. Here, creative and versatile pet stylists have mastered the art of hand-scissoring and are trained in breed standard cuts, as well. The boutique is veterinarian-recommended and promises to have your pet looking, smelling and feeling great. 680 Elden St., Herndon; 703-709-8746; www.caninecarousel.com.—LB
VETERINARIAN
Ashburn Farm Animal Hospital
Established in 2002, Ashburn Farm Animal Hospital founders John Klimavicz and Bill Hemmer and their staff of several associates provide professional, intimate and compassionate health services for pets. Friendly doctors are highly trained in such areas as grooming, dentistry, radiology, holisitics and routine preventive care. 43330 Junction Plaza Blvd. # 172, Ashburn; 703-726-8784; www.ashburnfarmvet.com.—LB
TRAINERS
Cooperative Paws
Husband and wife owners Ken Oberle and Veronica Sanchez dedicate themselves fully to each pup under their watchful, private, at-home behavior-modification instruction. Both highly certified and reputable dog obedience trainers, the two ensure the use of both effective and humane practices to produce results that animals and owners alike will appreciate. 703-489-6452; www.cooperativepaws.com.—LB
Photography by Jonathan Timmes
SPA
Bark ‘N Bubbles
The people at Bark ‘N Bubbles said they strongly believe that a bathed pet is a happy pet, so they strive to offer owners everything they need to keep their dogs’ tails clean and wagging. The self-service dog wash provides customers with shampoo, comb, brush, towels and warm air dryer. The franchise even hosts classes on pet first aid so clients can learn how to maintain their pets’ happy, healthy lifestyles. Multiple NoVa locations; www.barknbubblesdogwash.com.—LB
