In time, I established my own grooming salon, deliberately inclusive of pets beyond the traditional canine clientele. In an unregulated field, I set a personal standard for excellence—continuously advancing my skills, adopting the highest-quality equipment and products, and prioritizing positive, individualized care for every animal. My focus has always been on creating a gentle, informed, and science-supported grooming experience, particularly for animals with special behavioral or medical needs.

Among these cases, none has shaped my professional trajectory more than my own dog, Riggs—an Old English Sheepdog and my “heart dog.” In 2017, Riggs was diagnosed with a rare and complex hepatopathy marked by secondary copper toxicity, micronodular hyperplasia, dissecting fibrosis, and cirrhosis. The diagnostic process extended over eight challenging months, during which I encountered both professional ambiguity and, at times, a disheartening lack of guidance. Yet this journey galvanized my commitment to veterinary learning and advocacy.

Motivated by Riggs’ resilience, I embarked on an intensive path of self-education amid limited clinical familiarity with his condition and a lack of cohesive guidance. We were running out of time and urgently needed reliable support. Throughout this journey, I encountered a range of responses—from clinical uncertainty to passive oversight. At the time, credible information on copper-associated hepatopathy in dogs was scarce and often inaccessible. Recognizing this critical gap, I committed to expanding my knowledge through grassroots efforts, followed by formal, structured education, steadily refining my understanding of copper metabolism, hepatic pathology, and therapeutic nutrition.

Copper storage disease management hinges on two critical objectives: removing accumulated hepatic copper and preventing further excess intake. Dietary therapy remains a cornerstone of this approach, necessitating precise nutritional control to support hepatic recovery and long-term stability. Owner education and regular veterinary follow-up are critical components in managing this chronic liver disease. These allow for continuous assessment of the dog’s response to dietary therapy, close monitoring of liver enzyme levels, and timely adjustments to medical treatments to address the progressive and dynamic nature of the condition. My focus has remained not only for my own dog but for the broader community of owners navigating similar challenges.

Riggs peacefully passed away just shy of 14 years from unrelated causes. I felt a profound sense of fulfillment, knowing that I had exhausted every avenue to ensure his well-being. His passing marked the end of one chapter, but not of the mission. His case deepened my resolve to support others, empower informed decision-making, and bridge the gap between veterinary professionals and caregivers. The insights I gained have shaped the creation of Soul Dog Synergy—a name that honors his legacy and embodies the union of clinical insight and heartfelt advocacy.

Today, I remain committed to continued education and to the advancement of veterinary knowledge in the service of animals. My goal is to ensure that others never have to walk their path alone—offering a voice of clarity, compassion, and science in what can often feel like a deeply isolating experience.

Our animal companions—whether in the field, at home, or in the clinic—are more than partners in life; they are teachers who illuminate our responsibility to steward their health with diligence and empathy. Their well-being reflects the care we provide, and it is our duty to respond with informed, intentional action.