We interviewed Samantha Lacy From Chicago, IL, USA with her dog, Scout!
Tell us about Scout!
“My dog Scout is a 3 year old Australian Cattle Dog (or red heeler!). I rescued her when she was about a year old and, though they told me she was great with other dogs and people, she had behavioral issues that I was outmatched to train. I loved her so incredibly much and tried every resource to get the best training, and everything seemed to fall flat (& as reactive dog parents know, it’s emotionally exhausting for both of you!). After finding a passion and wanting to help my dog, I actually became a dog trainer! & now I not only work every day with Scout and other good boys and girls, it’s help strengthen our relationship so much. She’s become my best friend, my emotional support, and I don’t know what I would ever do without her! And I’m also in a career I love and helping other parents in the same situation become empowered to help their pets.”
Where did you meet your Scout?
"She’s a rescue from the Australian Cattle Dog Rescue of Illinois."
Who are you? What are you about!
“I’m born and raised in Chicago, and grew up with dogs all my life. I missed having one so bad, and knew I wanted to train the dog I got in obedience and agility. I found scout and she crawled on me the second I met her and it’s been love ever since! Now, I’m a full time dog trainer at PUPS Pet Club, doing obedience and behavioral modification. I continue to learn everyday, and can’t wait to see where the future takes me! (Hopefully to a second dog for me and Scout soon!)”
Tell us a story!
“Scout and I went hiking in Alaska, and I remember looking at the rocks in front of us and thinking ‘I don’t know if Scout can handle this!’ I had reassurance from other hikers she would be okay, and after moving forward, she ran up the mountain, came back down to check on my slow self, and went back up two more times. I never questioned her abilities ever again 😂.”
What do you think it means to be a pet? What is a pet's purpose in this life?
“Pets are more than family these days. My dog is my best friend and she’s a big piece of my life. I plan vacations with her, try to bring her wherever I can, and as happy as she makes me, I want to make her.”
How does your pup spark joy in your life?
“She is a constant funny personality for me, and never seizes to make me laugh. She also is the biggest comfort I have, and my biggest source of inspiration for my current career!”
What do you think are the most pressing issues that are in the pet industry today?
“Puppy Mills”
Do you think it's more important to talk about the issues or act on them?
"Both. Conversate and discuss to other humans about the issues and Volunteer or donate to help the animals out there in need.”
Thank you for sharing your story! We hope this will Spark someone to go out and make a difference in an animal’s life. We are so lucky to have doggies in our life!
- Sparky Steps
As a thank you for sharing your story we designed a cool tee and mug for you and anyone who loves Scout! Let us know what you think! If you like it feel free to share! 10% of Proceeds gets donated to the ASPCA!
10% of Proceeds gets donated to the ASPCA!
10% of Proceeds gets donated to the ASPCA!
We are looking for people to interview that have a story! Do you have a tale of how your fur babies found its forever home?
Join us with the #SPARKandBARK interviews. Tell us how your pets "SPARKS" joy in your life and "BARK" about it to the world. This way maybe someone will find their own SPARK and find a pet looking for a forever home. Each response will be featured on our Instagram, Facebook and Blog. Just send us a picture of you and your pet and tell us the back story!
That's the goal here at Sparky Steps: inspire, share adorable pictures, make an impact, give back and create a community of people who love animals. Interested in being a part of the community?
Here's the link https://sparkysteps.com/blogs/blog/whats-your-story