AugustKids & Pets Issue
There’s something undeniably pure about the way children and animals move through the world— curious, trusting, and joyfully unfiltered. They remind us of the beauty in small moments, the power of unconditional bonds, and the importance of creating spaces where growth, care, and connection can thrive.
In this issue, we celebrate the many forms that love and leadership can take—whether it’s through the determined hearts of a groundbreaking all-female veterinary team, the quiet wisdom of our four-legged companions, or the simple act of sitting down with a book that helps us become better for ourselves and those we care for.
We often think of summer as a time to escape—but perhaps it’s also a time to return. To return to presence. To presence with our children, our pets, our own untended selves. The stories we’ve gathered here are playful and poignant, tender and empowering. They speak to the resilience of caretakers, the joy of discovery, and the kind of strength that grows when we’re deeply connected—to others, and to ourselves.
Whether you're reading poolside while your pup naps in the shade, exploring nature trails with tiny hands in yours, or simply carving out time to reflect and recalibrate, we hope this issue offers inspiration, insight, and a sense of warmth that lingers.
Because when we nurture those who depend on us—whether they bark, giggle, or wag—we often end up nourishing something powerful within ourselves, too.
JAHNA EICHEL, PUBLISHER @FORTCOLLINSCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Jahna Eichel
jahna.eichel@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Jason Eichel
jason.eichel@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT ASSISTANT
Deanna McCraw fortcollins@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Morgan Henderson morgan.henderson@citylifestyle.com
Matthew Hart
matthew@thecreativeagencyco.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
The Creative Agency hello@thecreativeagencyco.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Heather Watters FNP-C, FMACP
GENTLE DENTAL FOR FORT COLLINS’ FURRY FACES
A look inside the powerhouse of women redefining veterinary dental care in Fort Collins
There’s a quiet hum of compassion and precision just south of Harmony Road in Fort Collins, where Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery has made its home. Inside their thoughtfully designed clinic, pets receive not only advanced dental treatment but also the kind of empathy and meticulous care that’s
“There’s a rhythm to this job,” she says. “You’re reading the patient’s cues, watching monitors, supporting the doctors—there’s no one-size-fits-all here. Each case is different, and that’s what makes it meaningful.”
hard to put into words. For the team here, the mission is simple: provide expert-level oral healthcare while strengthening the human-animal bond—one tooth at a time.
This specialty hospital offers more than routine cleanings or x-rays. It’s a place where beloved pets undergo complex oral surgeries, where painful conditions are treated with cutting-edge tools, and where healing is approached holistically—from diagnosis to follow-up. The team’s expertise spans periodontology, endodontics, prosthodontics, and more, all under the guidance of board-certified leadership and a shared commitment to excellence.
At the helm is Dr. MJ Redman, a Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist™ whose years of experience and steady leadership have helped shape the clinic’s reputation as a center of excellence. And it’s not just a place for patients—it’s a place for professional
growth. As a teaching hospital, Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery plays an active role in educating the broader veterinary community. From CE events and wet-lab courses for DVMs and RVTs to hosting fourth-semester vet tech students from Front Range Community College, the clinic is devoted to shaping the future of veterinary dentistry through hands-on, real-world experience.
The hospital is also home to two residents, Dr. McGuirk and Dr. Siddall, who are currently undergoing rigorous residency programs en route to becoming board-certified veterinary dentists. Their presence underscores the clinic’s passion for mentorship and its role as a hub for advanced education in the field.
That forward-thinking philosophy extends to research and innovation. The team is currently participating in a clinical trial focused on Feline
Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS), a debilitating condition that affects many cats. In collaboration with Gallant Therapeutics, the trial explores regenerative medicine options in pursuit of better outcomes for feline patients.
Of course, it’s not all microscopes and medical journals. Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery is deeply embedded in the Fort Collins community and regularly partners with local organizations including NOCO Humane, Animal Friends Alliance, and Tour de Corgi. From educational outreach to community wellness events, their presence is both clinical and communal—a resource for both pets and the people who love them.
Each team member brings not only skill but a genuine warmth that clients notice from the moment they walk in. Whether it’s the friendly, knowledgeable presence at the front desk, the attentive support from veterinary assistants, or the clinical expertise of the technical staff, the care is cohesive and intentional. The entire technical team is composed of registered veterinary technicians (RVTs), a credential that reflects advanced training and professional licensure—not something every veterinary practice requires, but a standard this one proudly upholds.
Among them is Rachel Kuhn, a dedicated RVT known for her steady presence and attention to detail. “There’s a rhythm to this job,” she says. “You’re reading the patient’s cues, watching monitors, supporting the doctors—there’s no one-sizefits-all here. Each case is different, and that’s what makes it meaningful.”
Practice Manager Meghan Olson, also an RVT, oversees the clinic’s daily operations with clarity and care. “Everyone here has a strong sense of purpose,” she shares. “It’s not just about doing the job— it’s about helping families feel confident they’ve made the right choice for their pet.”
That sense of purpose extends to the tools they use. The practice features cone beam CT imaging—a highly advanced, low-radiation 3D scanning system rarely seen in veterinary settings—which allows for early detection, improved diagnostics, and more precise treatment planning. But what’s even more impressive than the technology is the way it’s
“We’re here because we believe in this work,” says Dr. Redman. “We believe in giving pets their best life, in educating our colleagues, and in being a trusted resource for our community.”
used—with intention, compassion, and a desire to relieve pain and restore quality of life.
The clinic is also proudly led by a team of talented women—a reflection of the expertise, empathy, and leadership they bring to the field. Just as importantly, they foster a culture rooted in collaboration, mentorship, and shared purpose. Their strength lies not just in who they are, but in how they work together: with precision, heart, and a deep commitment to raising the standard of care for every patient, client, and colleague.
For pet owners in Fort Collins and beyond, Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery offers something rare: the clinical expertise of a referral hospital combined with the personal touch of a neighborhood practice. It’s the kind of place where patients are greeted by
name, where clients never feel rushed, and where education and innovation go hand in hand with compassion.
“We’re here because we believe in this work,” says Dr. Redman. “We believe in giving pets their best life, in educating our colleagues, and in being a trusted resource for our community.”
That community-first spirit is what truly sets this practice apart—not just the credentials or technology, but the way they show up, day in and day out, with curiosity, heart, and deep respect for the bond between people and their pets.
Animal Dental Care & Oral Surgery Fort Collins is located at 1603 Oakridge Dr #100. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit covetdentist.com or call 970-732-9777.
RO A D CHOW
A FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACK
GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY PAULI REEP
Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? This easyto-pack and satisfying snack is a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare it together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!
BREAKFAST COOKIES
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups quick oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
DIRECTIONS:
• 1/3 cup apple butter
• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pepitas
• 1/2 cup raisins
1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. 2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.
3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)
4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.
5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.
ARTICLE BY BY KATHLEEN MARTIN, ELEVATIONS CREDIT UNION
Four Paws, One Purpose: The Lives of Guide Dogs
People make many matches in their lives: romantic partners, workplaces, and friends. But the match between a guide dog and the person they serve is especially rare and intense.
“The connection transcends family — transcends everything,” said Ellie Carlson, founder of Canines and Canes LLC. “There’s no other role in the human world like it.”
The closeness comes from the time the pair spend together, as well as the depth of vulnerability and knowledge of each other. The dog serves as a human’s eyes during travel—avoiding obstacles and stopping at all street crossings—while the human decides where to go, giving directional commands based on their mental map or a GPS device.
It isn’t easy to find the “magic match”—a dog and person with similar energy levels, temperament, and walking speeds, who trust each other completely to move through the world. Once paired, the two become virtually inseparable, keenly aware of the other’s movements, moods, and needs. When a guide dog retires or passes away, the loss can be intense enough to require grief processing.
The process begins with identifying which dogs are good candidates. Carlson pays close attention to the dog’s body language to see if they enjoy the work and have the right temperament to become a guide.
“The connection transcends family — transcends everything,” said Ellie Carlson, founder of Canines and Canes LLC. “There’s no other role in the human world like it.”
It’s possible to spot early signs in dogs Carlson calls “old soul” dogs. They should:
• Be attentive and focused while walking
• Stay calm while lying down in work settings or restaurants for long periods
• Be ready to go when their human asks
• Ignore distractions like food, people, or other dogs
Guide dog training starts around 12–14 months of age and involves navigating obstacles, understanding directional cues, and responding to “find the ____” commands. An Elevations Credit Union member, Carlson would often bring her guide dogs-in-training into branches to practice finding the door or counter and to polish their obedience skills in a public setting. She says the welcoming atmosphere made that possible.
“Elevations has been amazing,” she said. She says instead of using the credit union’s online banking service, she “would rather go in and deposit because they’re just so friendly and helpful.”
SERVICE DOG DO’S AND DON’TS
Do use the right terminology. Service dogs are dogs specifically trained to perform a task for an individual with a disability. Guide dogs are a type of service dog. Emotional support animals and therapy dogs are not service dogs and are not allowed in public indoor spaces.
Don’t distract them while they’re working. Interacting by petting, talking, making eye contact, or any other distraction should be avoided. Keep your own dog at a distance.
HOW COMPASSION BECAME A CAREER
Though she now focuses on teaching individuals who are blind, low-vision, and deafblind to use a white cane, raising guide dogs and matching them with their human counterparts has been part of Carlson’s work for the past 23 years. She entered the profession after seeing how accessibility can open doors and empower people with disabilities.
Carlson was working at Colorado State University’s accessibility office, learning how to print materials into Braille
“Elevations has been amazing,” she said. She says instead of using the credit union’s online banking service, she “would rather go in and deposit because they’re just so friendly and helpful.”
disabilities through efforts like the Special Olympics and adaptive snowboard instructing, she realized orientation and mobility instruction—a specialty role for an underserved population—was a way to be part of the solution.
While many guide dog mobility instructors come to the profession from a dog training background, Carlson came from a more human-centered context, helping her offer emotional support to her clients as well.
“Clients are not always looking for a solution,” she said. “They’re also looking for someone to validate that they’re really trying. They’re exhausted.”
and make tactile campus maps so students could find their classes. One day at CSU, she saw a student who had low vision crying after class. A professor had handed her a print syllabus that would take three days to translate into Braille—she’d already be behind her sighted classmates.
Faster, more accessible resources, Carlson realized, could help that student keep up in class, be more independent, and feel empowered instead of frustrated. A perpetual helper who had been aiding people with
The energy required for an individual who is blind or low-vision to keep up with sighted people can be draining and frustrating—especially if they also experience hearing loss. To support this population more fully, Carlson has started primarily focusing on training her clients to use a white cane—a prerequisite for getting a guide dog and an essential skill in and of itself. Mobility specialty is a high-needs area, as a recent study reported only one mobility specialist for every 175,000 people in need in America.
ANNIVERSARY GALA & KORA FASHION SHOW
We’re turning 6 and you’re invited to witness the unveiling of KORA, our debut loungewear collection.
KORA embodies stillness, softness, and the quiet power of becoming. A celebration of your story, your ritual, your second skin.
SEPTEMBER 9 , 2025 TH 5:00 PM - 8:30 PM THE NEIGHBOR 144 S MASON ST, FORT COLLINS
WALK THE RED CARPET WATCH THE EXCLUSIVE KORA RUNWAY SHOW SHOP THE COLLECTION INDULGE IN SKIN LOUNGE RITUALS
Every ticket supports CASA of Larimer County, helping empower children and give back to the community that has shaped us.
Scan or visit: bit.ly/4lDgnQi
SUMMER BOOKS THAT SHAPE WHO YOU BECOME
The Thoughtful Escape: Summer Books That Shape Who You Become
ARTICLE BY JAHNA EICHEL
There’s something powerful about choosing what we let into our lives—how we spend our time, what we focus on, and where we place our energy. In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, faster, summer offers a rare chance to slow down, reflect, and reset.
Reading for self-development isn’t just about gathering information—it’s about realignment. It’s about finding calm in the middle of ambition, and remembering that growth doesn’t always require motion. Sometimes, it starts with stillness. Whether it’s on a shaded porch, a quiet beach, or just a break between meetings, opening a great book can help you reconnect with purpose, creativity, and clarity.
The difference between intentional reading and endless scrolling is depth. Books invite you to stay a while. To underline a phrase. To pause and think. That’s the kind of experience that lingers long after the last page. Reading this way isn’t about productivity; it’s about presence. It’s not a checklist—it’s a catalyst.
For leaders, creatives, and anyone building a thoughtful life, summer reading isn’t a luxury. It’s fuel. A way to step back and shape what’s next—not through hustle, but through insight.
So as the days stretch out a little longer, consider not just what’s new or popular—but what resonates. What stays with you. Let your summer reading be less about keeping up, and more about tuning in.
Here are a few under-the-radar titles that just might change the way you think, work, or live:
1. “THE ALMANACK OF NAVAL RAVIKANT”
BY ERIC JORGENSON
A quietly iconic guide whispered about in elite founder circles. This is less a book, more a blueprint—a distilled collection of wisdom on wealth and happiness that reads like a minimalist’s life manual. No fluff. Just clarity.
2. “THE MOUNTAIN IS YOU”
BY BRIANNA WIEST
Part poetry, part psychology, entirely piercing. Wiest examines how we become our own greatest obstacle—and how we rise. This book has spread not through advertising, but through hushed recommendations from those doing real inner work.
3. “ESSENTIALISM”
BY GREG MCKEOWN
Forget productivity hacks—this is about elegant refusal. A favorite among quiet power players, this book isn’t about doing more with less. It’s about doing only what matters, masterfully.
4. “SUPERCOMMUNICATORS”
BY CHARLES DUHIGG
You won’t find this on Instagram reels—but the most persuasive people you know have probably read it. Duhigg unpacks the subtle art of emotional resonance, logic, and rhythm in conversation. It’s more opera than TED Talk.
5. “THE MYTH OF NORMAL” BY
DR. GABOR MATÉ
A sweeping, soul-searching excavation of our inner landscapes. Maté blends science and compassion in a book that doesn’t just inform—it disarms. It’s the kind of book you underline in silence, then gift to someone you love.
6. “DESIGNING
YOUR LIFE”
BY BILL BURNETT & DAVE EVANS
Imagine if your existence had a creative director. This Stanford-born methodology turns your career, identity, and relationships into a design problem—solved elegantly, with curiosity and structure.
7. “THE PRACTICE” BY SETH GODIN
A quiet cult classic for the quietly ambitious. Godin’s prose is clean, kind, and insistent. This is the book that reminds you: brilliance is built, not born—and only ever through repetition with heart.
8. “STOLEN FOCUS” BY JOHANN HARI
Not your average productivity screed. Hari traverses global cities, deep research labs, and philosophical corners to explore why we’ve lost our attention—and how to get it back. Think of it as literary spa treatment for your overstimulated brain.
Longevity
It’s not just about adding years to your life, it’s about adding life to your years.
Our Longevity Program is rooted in advanced diagnostics and personalized care, aiming to help you look, feel, and function at your highest potential.
We start with in-depth lab testing to uncover your body's unique needs, then create a personalized plan using peptides, hormone optimization, and targeted supplements.
Because aging well is an art we specialize in.
Over 70% of pets aged five and older have dental disease, and most hide the pain. We provide cleanings, surgery, and advanced care under anesthesia to keep your pets healthy, comfortable, and smiling.
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BIRTHDAY PARTY DIY DOG
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
DIY PARTY FAVORS FOR DOGS
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
TREAT STATION FOR OWNERS
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
HOW TO MAKE A DOG BIRTHDAY CAKE
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
CONTINUED >
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
CONTINUED >
Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
EMBRACE THE MESS, STAY PATIENT, AND FOCUS ON THE FUN.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
We wanted to create a place that felt like home, where people could gather and connect over good food.
- Ginger Graham, owner of
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