My first blog post. The only way to start the Brookside Barkery & Bath blog is from the very beginning. As many of you know, Brookside Barkery & Bath was inspired by a beautiful soul, a St. Bernard named Aspen. She had many difficulties in her life – colitis, irritable bowel, hip displasia, numerous skin issues and constant ear infections. At 4 years old, she experienced an IB episode so severe she could not move … I looked at her and said I will help you. We got her to the vet and the vet did not have good news – with all of the issues Aspen was experiencing she would not live past 6. We just couldn’t accept that there was nothing we could do … there must be something else out there that will help our Aspen live a full & happy life. I made the decision then to find out all I could about natural foods, supplements and holistic treatments; what we were doing was not working – prescription diets, steroid shots, antibiotics – just adding toxins to her already taxed body. At this time, I was also in the middle of a career ‘crisis’ – not sure what I wanted to do next. My advisor suggested I look at some kind of business because I had enough background in that area… it would be a better move than going back to school full-time to finish my degree. As I always say … things happen for a reason …as I started my research for better options for Aspen, it became clear that this is what I was meant to do next – open the Barkery to not only help Aspen but all the other dogs and cats that are suffering with poor diet, allergies, skin problems and a host of other issues. The whole process took a little over a year. I found a location in the eclectic Brookside area and 7 years later – this little space has transformed into a space more than double its size. We have also opened stores in Olathe and Lee’s Summit. As many of you know, we lost our beautiful Aspen a year ago in October at the ripe old age of 12 … the pain is still very real … but the outpouring of sympathy from so many customers and friends just confirmed to us that Aspen truly was an inspiration and she continues to inspire us. I wear her ashes in a locket around my neck so she is with me every day. This post is just the beginning, many more will follow that will share our knowledge & expertise, and provide all of you with a place to go with any questions, concerns or topics you would like us to discuss. I want this to be ‘our’ blog – please share your comments!
Hear Aspen’s story as told by Delena
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