400 Life October 2023

400 LIFE OCTOBER 2023

MAKING A PAW-SITIVE IMPACT Meet Victoria Pereira, owner and operator of Pawsh Purrfect Grooming

INSIDE: Forsyth County Library’s Pet Resources and Reads • Pup Party & More

contents

CONTRIBUTORS Publisher Stephanie Woody Group Editor Nate McCullough Director of Revenue Eugene Jackson Advertising Stacy Clark Meghan Hernandez

This magazine is a product of the

Special contributors Leslie Marinelli Meredith Pruitt Kelly Whitmire Daniel Dotson Photography Kala Smith Photography Kelly Whitmire Creative Services Claudette Keeley April Seymour Chelsea Sunshine

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ON THE COVER:

Pawsh Purrfect makes a difference in Forsyth 400 HEALTH: Foster today and save a pet.

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400 READS: Books for Pet Lovers

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400 PETS: Celebrating a special police pup

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COVER SPONSOR: PAWSH PURRFECT GROOMING

A Paw-sitive Impact: How one local grooming salon is making a difference in the community.

Photos by Kala Smith Photography

By Meredith Pruitt The care of our pets is something we take very seriously. With so many options for veterinarians, doggy day cares, and grooming salons, it is clear that there is a need for pet services in the community. Pets are more than just cute animals; they are family members.

When seeking any type of care for them, pet owners know there must be a level of trust and professionalism beyond reproach. So, who is the best choice? Most pet owners do not blindly select a groomer, but instead rely upon 4

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referrals. Allow us to provide one for you today: Pawsh Purrfect Grooming.

Beyond the catchy name, there is so much more to this grooming company that sets it apart. Victoria Pereira, owner and operator, explained how this salon got its start in an unexpected way.

“The day I got a phone call I was working independently on donating a free groom to a service animal for a veteran,” she said. “When I received the news of someone looking to sell their storefront business, I took immediate

action to reach out, as I was in disbelief of this proposal - I strived to push forward and purchased the salon with every intention to make it my own.”

The opportunity was not taken lightly, according to Pereira. “If someone told me that this particular phone call would change my entire world for the better with a salon for sale, I’d probably laugh in disbelief,” she said.

“I’m grateful for being a business owner for the opportunity given in my path and for learning how to navigate both professionally and always putting qual-

Owner and operator, Victoria Pereira.

Photos by Kala Smith Photography

ity first as my business plan.”

Overall, the number one goal of the business, that makes it unique, is its mission to provide safety for their clients.

“All pets are treated with the intention of leaving them better than how we find them, when choosing humanity over vanity,” she said. “With expert grooming care and quality equipment, we will always have your pet’s best interest for optimum grooming services,” said Pereira.

There are also several customized options to choose from at Pawsh Purrfect, which are catalogued on the website.

Many might be skeptical of using dyes to create these designs, but the salon provides a safe alternative to what is conventionally used.

“Colorful creative grooming is not only an art in itself, but it takes an inspired mind to create something unique and innovative,” she said. “The pet safe dyes have been professionally tested and passed cytotoxicity test and regulations, which essentially allows all pet safe products proved to be effective and valued non-toxic products. With that being said, there is no further hesitation to embark upon a journey of endless creative grooming possibilities and styles.”

Beyond their ability to create a customized grooming experience for pets, the business prides itself on giving back.

“When we aren’t already pampering any pet to a spa day, we enjoy donating our time and resources to the community,” Pereira said. “We have been humbled to be able to participate October 2023

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PAWSH PURRFECT GROOMING with West Forsyth High School to raise awareness for autism, working directly with the students to create Autism Awareness inspired puzzle piece bandanas. For every generous donation you will receive one of these special works of art, and 100 percent of donations go to the Forsyth County School District’s Special Services Program.”

Pawsh Purrfect’s link to humanitarian efforts does not stop there.

For them, this is personal. Pereira remembers how she got her start, the effect of animals on her life, and uses that inspiration to serve the community as well.

“We get to provide special and unique haircuts and color styles to certified service animals to go visit children in the hospital along with search and rescue service animals and

emotional support animals as well,” she said. “As a child I had encountered a traumatic experience while being bitten by a rattlesnake, and as a seven-yearold young girl, I will never forget the day I had a service dog named Tanner come visit me in my hospital bed while in the intensive care unit for two weeks straight.”

Pereira says it was a major turning point in her life. “I had a golden retriever come to greet me with irreplaceable joy; it restored my heart, and for a moment, I had forgotten about all of my pain I had encountered. From that day forward, I always, and will always, hold service animals of any kind near and dear to my heart.”

Of course, this isn’t a solo operation. Pawsh Purrfect is a team of expert groomers and animal lovers, and

Photos by Kala Smith Photography

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Pereira says she could not do any of this without her dedicated staff.

“I am forever grateful for the individuals I have been blessed with in my journey in becoming a successful businesswoman,” she said. “Uplifting energy is the key to success; I wouldn’t change my team for a second. [I want] only to grow quality over quantity.”

Pereira also says opening the business with her employees was a true “full -circle” moment.

“It humbles me to know that I’ve come a long way from the garage days to a storefront, and I get to share my experiences with [my staff ] in hopes to only encourage their growth both within themselves and strengthen their skillsets,” she said. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime.”

PAWSH PURRFECT GROOMING

If you want to find out more about the salon and its efforts, and also browse the catalog of grooming services available, visit the website at pawsh-purrfect-grooming. com, or find them on Instagram @pawsh_purrfect_ grooming. To book an appointment, call 678-9476660. Pawsh Purrfect Grooming is at 2360 Bethelview Road, Unit 107, Cumming, GA 30040.

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400health

Overcrowded Animal Shelter calls for adoptions and foster families

By Daniel Dotson danieldotson@forsythnews.com The Forsyth County Animal Shelter has reached its care capacity in the midst of a slow-adoption year, and the Shelter is asking for the community to help.

Adoption rates are down by approximately 10 percent from last year, with only 312 animals being adopted out since January 2023. With about 50 dogs and over 150 cats waiting for a new home, the Animal Shelter has put out a call to Forsyth County residents to adopt or foster animals.

“When shelters reach capacity and adoptions slow, it is even more challenging to provide the quality care that each animal deserves,” said Animal Shelter Manager Cindy Iacopella in a press release.

“Forsyth County has always been a very pet-friendly community, and we are urging residents to open their homes to animals in need so we can continue to rescue, reunite and rehome animals.”

Forsyth residents who can’t commit to adoption have an option to join the Animal Shelter’s foster team to temporarily house adult animals until they find a permanent home. Anyone with a safe, loving home and enough time to care for an animal is eligible to join the foster program.

The animal shelter supplies necessities such as food, medication, kennels, toys, and animal-specific care instructions to foster families in the program.

TO SEE THE ANIMAL SHELTER’S ADOPTABLE ANIMALS, VISIT WWW.FORSYTHCO.COM/DEPARTMENTS-OFFICES/ANIMAL-SHELTER/ADOPTIONS#ANIMALS. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE ANIMAL SHELTER’S FOSTER PROGRAM, VISIT WWW.FORSYTHCO.COM/DEPARTMENTS-OFFICES/ANIMAL-SHELTER/FOSTER.

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400reads Forsyth County Public Library:

A Treasure Trove of Resources for Pet Owners

By Leslie Marinelli

Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) has long been a cherished resource for readers, writers, and knowledge seekers.

But did you know this treasured community hub can also provide valuable resources and assistance to pet owners? Whether you’re a seasoned pet parent or still on the fence about adding a four-legged friend to your family, here are three reasons why you should visit the Library this month: 1. Enjoy free access to a huge array of “pawsome” resources!

FCPL’s mission is to champion literacy, lifelong learning, and personalized service. For pet owners, this translates into the Library providing a veritable treasure trove of information relevant to pet care, behavior, and well-being.

From guides on puppy training to nutrition and healthcare tips for aging pets, the Library’s collection covers it all. Not only can you access these resources for free with your library card, but our friendly staff can also help you navigate our vast collection to find exactly what you need.

2. Destress and improve reading skills with therapy dogs at the Library!

Did you know that reading to a dog can significantly improve a child’s literacy skills? Petting a dog has also been shown to reduce stress hormones in the body, decrease heart rate and blood pressure, support mindfulness, and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Don’t have a dog of your own? No problem! Every library in Forsyth County hosts a monthly “Paws to Read” program. This unique and beloved program allows children to practice their reading skills in a non-judgmental and stress-free environment.

Certified therapy dogs and their handlers from Humane Hearts patiently listen to young readers as they share stories. This nurturing interaction not only boosts children’s confidence but also fosters a love for reading and learning.

For more information about FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY or any resources or upcoming events, visit WWW.FORSYTHPL.ORG or connect with FCPL on social media @forsythpl.

Cumming Library, 585 Dahlonega Street, Cumming, GA 30040 | Sharon Forks Library, 2820 Old Atlanta Rd, Cumming, GA 30041 | Post Road Library, 5010 Post Rd, Cumming, GA 30040 | Hampton Park Library, 5345 Settingdown Rd, Cumming, GA 30041

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3. Books are just the beginning at FCPL! Libraries today are so much more than just books. You can also use your library card for eBooks and eAudiobooks, video streaming, tutoring, music lessons, study rooms, Chromebooks, free passes to museums and State Parks, radon detectors, and more. We even have a free Seed Library at two of our locations.

We also have hundreds of free educational and cultural programs for all ages every month. For pet people, our animalrelated programs not only educate pet owners but also foster a sense of community among like-minded animal lovers. “What I learned tonight probably saved my dog’s life. I had no idea onions and garlic are poisonous to dogs!” a patron told us last year after a pet first-aid program.

Other recent animal-related Library programs have included wildlife presentations featuring animals from around the globe, workshops about DIY pet toys and dog food, and even dancing poodle demonstrations.

If you or your kids love animals, here are some upcoming programs you won’t want to miss: Snakes Alive! Presented by Smithgall Woods Education Center Friday, October 20, 2:00–2:30 p.m.

Cumming Library (585 Dahlonega Street) Bat Walk: Presentation and walk to hear bats with an ultrasonic bat detector Wednesday, October 25, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Hampton Park Library (5345 Settingdown Road) Trick or Treat Storytime and Parade Tuesday, October 31, 10:30–11:30 a.m.

Cumming Library (585 Dahlonega Street) This is just a small sample of the countless free programs and resources available at FCPL. Visit our website at forsythpl.org for more information or to get your free Forsyth County Public Library card today!

Leslie Marinelli has lived in Forsyth County for 20 years with her husband and three children and is the Communications Manager at Forsyth County Public Library.

400reads

Recommended Reading for Pet Lovers The Lion in the Living Room: How House Cats Tamed Us and Took Over the World

by Abigail Tucker The intriguing history of how house cats found their way onto our hearths and into our hearts.

The Forever Dog: Surprising New Science to Help Your Canine Companion Live Younger, Healthier, and Longer by Rodney Habib

H is for Hawk by Helen Macdonald An award-winning best-seller recounts how an experienced falconer grieving the sudden death of her father endeavored to train a dangerous goshawk predator.

The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration into the Wonder of Consciousness

by Sy Montgomery Delve into the extraordinary world of these fascinating underwater creatures, providing a unique insight into the animal kingdom.

Leslie with Humane Hearts therapy dog, Baron, at Cumming Library’s 2022 Trick or Treat Storytime and Parade.

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400pets

‘He’s just a phenomenal dog.’

K9 BUZZ CELEBRATES 8TH BIRTHDAY

By Kelly Whitmire kwhitmire@forsythnews.com Members of the Forsyth County Sheriff ’s Office took a break from a recent day of training to celebrate one officer’s big birthday.

On Thursday, Sept. 7, FCSO celebrated K9 Buzz’s eighth birthday during a day of training with other K9 units from across the state.

“I’ve had him since the end of 2017, he just turned eight, so we’ve been together roughly just short of six years,” said First Sgt. Noah Sprague, Buzz’s handler. “I’m the only handler he’s ever had, and he is a ball full of chocolate lab energy, and that is not nearly what he was when I first got him.”

Even after calming down over the years, Buzz was still excited to celebrate his birthday, which included a “pup cup” of whipped cream that he devoured in seconds.

Sprague said the birthday was a bit bittersweet since K9 units retire when they turn 9.

“He is just a non-stop workaholic that dog,” Sprague said. “He is happy when he’s working. I worry about him a little bit and when he retires next year, he’s supposed to retire when he’s nine, I’m going to have to keep him busy.”

Buzz is known at the FCSO for his sniffing abilities for weapons, drugs and even people. He is the only K9 on the force to receive a life-saving award after leading Sprague to a missing Forsyth County resident in 2021.

Sprague said the search happened during a hot day with tropical storms on the horizon before Buzz found the right scent.

“He took us down to a ravine,” he said. “I had a fire department guy with me, and I said, ‘Keep your eyes open, I think we’re getting close.’ Just as soon as I said that, I looked up, and there she was, laying in the ravine. She was conscious, but we were able to get her out of there. She’d fallen and hit her head. We got her out of there before this tropical storm hit which would have flooded the ravine.”

Along with his work finding people, Buzz is also a common sight at Forsyth County schools, where he works performing searches.

“He can do the school drug searches, he can interact with kids,” Sprague said. “In fact, there’s been times that we’ve been down doing lockers, a kid comes and gets his stuff out of the

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locker, here comes Buzz, and he sniffs around [the student] like it’s seamless.”

Sprague said Buzz is “just a phenomenal dog” and is “going to miss having my best friend with me every day” after he retires.

TRAINING DAY

Buzz’s birthday celebration was held at the VFW Post 9143 in Cumming during a lunch break for officers across the state attending a law training event hosted by the Georgia K9 Foundation.

Deputy First Class Steven Challinger, a member of the board, said the day was about learning best practices and how the foundation can help provide safety measures for K9s, especially for vehicles.

“We have heat alarms, and there’s kennels in each one,” Challinger said. “We provide those services to handlers because it’s a cost expense for agencies and more rural agencies have a hard time affording it. So, really our main goal is to not exist, believe it or not, we don’t want to exist. So that’s our number one mission the whole time.

“So, what we love to do is see every dog being taken care of through heat alarms, vet bills, expenses of a working K9.”

FCSO K9 Buzz celebrated his eighth birthday with a whipped cream ‘pup cup’ on Thursday, Sept. 7. Photos by Kelly Whitmire

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THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF FORSYTH 2023 w w w. F o r Yo u r F u t u r e . n e t | 7 7 0 - 6 2 7 - 2 1 2 1 The “Best of Forsyth” list is published annually by The Forsyth County News. Financial Consultant’s Group participates in both the category of Investment or Wealth Management Individual and in the category of Financial Planning Firm. David Fountain, CFP and owner of Financial Consultants Group was awarded Best Investment or Wealth Management Individual for the years of 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023. Financial Consultants Group was awarded Best Financial Planning Firm for 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023. All nominees are first nominated by readers and then the nominees are vetted through a third-party firm, Second Street. The annual nomination period is from September 1 -31. Voting takes place from November 1-30th. Readers may vote up to once daily during the voting period, and the winners are announced the first week of December and then provided the opportunity to advertise their win. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Award winners cannot pay a fee to be included in the research or the final list of award recipients. No advertising was required to receive these awards.

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Also, providing a positive experience for the pet parent and pet, in a professional stress free atmosphere. All pets are treated with the intention of leaving them better than how we find them, when choosing humanity over vanity. With expert grooming care and quality equipment we will always have your pets best interest for optimum grooming services.

PREMIER PET GROOMING & DAY CARE

pawsh-purrfect-grooming.com 2360 Bethelview Rd, Unit 107 • Cumming, GA

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