A haven for dogs

<p>Editor: With my four-legged partner, Chaba, a large white Komondor breed dog, I moved to Petaluma in November 2007. I sold my home in Washington state and was extremely pleased to land and rent a little home in Petaluma for Chaba and myself. Whether walking or driving, the sight of Chaba turns people’s heads either with a smile on their face or a look of puzzlement. </p><p>Questioning my health issues, I made appointments at UCSF Medical Center in San Francisco. A few months later I was diagnosed with cancer. In those months of attending appointments in the city, I looked in the yellow pages, and was attracted to a kennel by the name of It’s a Dog’s Life. Having made the decision to take Chaba to It’s a Dog’s Life for daily day care, and sometimes overnight boarding, rather than have him have to sit in my truck through my many long medical appointments, left me feeling he was in excellent care.</p><p>After my first week of 24-hour drip chemotherapy and daily radiation, my concern most of all was for Chaba’s welfare, knowing the treatment was taking its toll on me. A newfound friend, Robyn, began to help me and many others stepped in to assist me as well. I’ll be ever grateful for my many new friends, and neighbors. </p><p>After I suffered a setback in treatment due to being hospitalized for pneumonia, Robyn contacted Karen Doolittle, proprietor of It’s a Dog’s Life, unbeknownst to me. Two days after, I realized that as devoted as I am to my dog, I couldn’t care for Chaba. Robyn came over and said she made an appointment for us to meet with someone who has boarding for dogs who was willing to help me with Chaba for the duration of my treatment until October. Upon arriving at It’s A Dog’s Life, I mentioned this was the place I had taken Chaba in the past! </p><p>As I walked in to meet Karen Doolittle, I was pretty weak and sick. Karen remembered Chaba at first sight, immediately invited us into her unique ranch setting to sit down and relax in the yard. She offered a bucket of water for Chaba. When I saw that he relaxed and started drinking from it, I could relax as well. I surrendered, knowing as difficult as it was to let Chaba stay, it would be the best for the both of us. Now I could put my energy into beating this cancer, knowing Chaba would be well cared for. Karen Doolittle is a caring, and remarkable lady.</p><p>From my heart, I would like to make my testimonial, that the moment anyone leaves their beloved pet under the care of Karen Doolittle and her wonderful staff, you will walk away with confidence, knowing your pet’s comfort and care is in the best of hands. This wonderful hidden jewel, It’s A dog’s Life. should be discovered by all. </p><p>Robert Karcie, Petaluma</p>