We asked our staff... "Why do you work at the Atlanta Dog Spa?"

Allison — I have had the opportunity to work part time in the front office of the Atlanta Dog Spa for 4 years now. It has been such a joy to get to know our clients and their canines. It is so much fun to watch the puppies grow up over the years and be able to care for them while their parents are away. One of my dogs has practically grown up here and feels as though this is her second home. I love that I am able to work at the same place where my dogs come to play.

Blair — I like working at the Dog Spa because it feels more like play than work. The people here are friendly and all of the dogs make me excited to come in each day.

Bob — I enjoy working with animals, as well as physical work in an outdoor environment. As a graphic artist and sculptor I'm enjoying the opportunity to study the intricacies of dog anatomy in motion.

Dan — I've always loved dogs, and having the opportunity to work with dogs was a chance I didn't want to miss. Plus my dog absolutely loves it!

Jorge — Almost all my life I was surrounded by animals. I grew up with dogs, cats, birds, etc, and it made me want to study Veterinary Science and raise labs in my country, Peru. Now I have the opportunity to work with dogs — actually, it is not like you are working, because you like what you do. The dogs are amazing and every time that you see their faces, you can tell if they are happy, sad, or in pain; if you learn how to read that you could be the next Cesar. I'm very happy that I can work here with them, and the excellent people around.

Lauren — I have always had a dog in my life, but while attending grad school, I only have a small home with no room for a dog. I'm very happy I can care for many different dogs every week - there's lots of doggie love here!

Michael — Although I've always had an affinity to animals, especially dogs and cats, it wasn't until my cocker-boy Jonathan crossed the Rainbow Bridge that I started thinking about working with animals. Before moving from PA to GA, I worked part time as a bather at the groomers that cut Jonathan's hair, and volunteered at PAWS playing with and helping to socialize cats.

After moving to GA, I worked at a kennel, but quit because of the way the dogs were being treated (money, instead of the dogs, was their bottom line). I saw an ad for the Dog Spa, checked out the website, and applied. By the end of my volunteer day, I knew most of the dogs in the big dog yard. It didn't take long before I could recognize and name the dogs by sight. I love the way their eyes light up when I walk onto the yard, and how they come over to greet me. For me, it's a joy. I love them as I would my own. Each and every one of them is an individual, and each has a story to tell. All we have to do is be open to "hear" them.

For me, this is more than just a job. It is an adventure. There is never a dull moment!

Stephanie — About 4 years ago, I took part in a one year program training guide dogs and learning the ropes of a veterinary assistant. After gradually learning more and more about dogs and their behavior, getting to work with them and help them to realize their amazing potential, I realized that this was what I wanted to do forever. Some people live Wall Street, some people live law or accounts receivable — I live dogs. They are amazing and complex creatures who do not get the credit they deserve, and I can?t imagine a day going by that I didn?t get to make a difference in their lives.

Tommy — Basically, I was a dog in another life! Also I wanted to try something different from my regular occupation as a space shuttle pilot. Then of course the owner Sarah is cool and from a really hip town.