Midlothian, VA August 2025 by City Lifestyle

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Welcome to the Kids and Pets Issue!

As we embrace the warm, sun-soaked days of August, we are excited to present the Kids and Pets Issue! This issue is dedicated to celebrating the cherished bond between our little ones and their furry friends. From the joy of playful adventures to the lessons learned through caring for animals, this edition captures the essence of these special relationships.

Enjoy the Pet of the Month, as always! Whether it’s a tail-wagging welcome home or a quiet moment snuggled on the couch, these snapshots remind us of the unconditional love that pets provide. We encourage you to share your favorite memories with us, as we believe these stories bring our community closer together.

For those looking to make their child’s birthday extra special, our Birthday in a Box feature offers creative ideas to personalize celebrations. From pet-themed parties to fun activities that involve both kids and their pets, we hope you’ll get ready to unleash your creativity and create unforgettable moments!

Additionally, we explore the importance of dog training. Training your furry friend not only enhances their behavior but also builds a stronger bond between dogs and their young companions, too. This article provides practical tips in the training process, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Lastly, we showcase the artistry of equine and pet photography! Capturing the unique personalities of our pets and horses can be incredibly rewarding. This feature highlights our amazing local talent and many tips on how to preserve these cherished memories for years to come.

As you flip through the pages of this month’s issue, we hope you find inspiration and joy in the stories and tips shared. Let’s celebrate the laughter, love, and lessons that our kids and pets bring into our lives. We look forward to hearing your stories and seeing your pictures as you embark on this journey with us.

Stay cool!

AARON SWART, PUBLISHER @MIDLOTHIANLIFESTYLE

PUBLISHER

Aaron Swart | aaron.swart@citylifestyle.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Steven Casupanan | steven.casupanan@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com

EDITOR

Amanda Rae Linas | amandarae@belovedpetphoto.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Aaron M. Swart, MSW

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Amanda Rae Linas

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 Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

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OUR NEW TRAINING FACILITY IS

Our new facility offers clients a neutral environment for dog training, resulting in faster progress than traditional inhome training (clients should still work their pups everyday and attend group classes). It also provides a location for advanced training, such as PTSD/Psychiatric and Medical Alert service dogs, and allows for daily dog work and group classes. CONTACT US TODAY!

KIDS AND Canines

A JOURNEY INTO DOG TRAINING ELITE OF RICHMOND

As the warm August sun bathes Richmond, Virginia, in a golden glow, families are busy enjoying the summer months, including their beloved pets. For many families, the bond between children and their canine companions is a cherished aspect of life. However, ensuring that this bond is nurtured through proper training is essential, and Dog Training Elite of Richmond stands out as a premier destination for dog training. Owner Paul Hearn shares insights into the facility and its unique approach to dog training, highlighting the importance of fostering positive relationships between kids and pets.

ARTICLE BY AARON M. SWART, MSW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA RAE LINAS

A CUTTING-EDGE FACILITY FOR EFFECTIVE TRAINING

Dog Training Elite of Richmond boasts a stateof-the-art training facility designed to enhance the dog training experience. “We have dedicated space that allows us to perform training while other dogs are tethered to the wall to watch,” Hearn explains. This innovative setup is crucial for desensitizing reactive dogs, allowing them to learn in a controlled, stress-free environment. With ample room for training without feeling cramped, the facility also features abundant storage for tools and equipment, enabling trainers to pivot their approach based on each dog’s specific needs.

The layout of the new building is intentionally designed to accommodate various types of training sessions. “We have two areas: our main training space for adult dogs and a separate area for puppies,” Hearn notes. Keeping puppies separate is vital since they may not be fully vaccinated. This thoughtful division allows for a tailored training approach, ensuring that every dog receives the attention and care they deserve.

DIVERSE TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR EVERY DOG

At Dog Training Elite of Richmond, the range of training programs is diverse and comprehensive. From Puppy Training starting at just eight weeks to Advanced Obedience for Therapy Dogs, PTSD Service Dogs, and Autism Support Dogs, the facility caters to a wide array of needs. Hearn emphasizes, “We have a very diverse offering for owners,” ensuring that they can find the right program for their furry family member.

CONTINUED >

Moreover, specialized training programs for specific breeds and behavioral issues are also available. “We train a lot of dogs for behavioral modification,” Hearn explains. Whether addressing leash reactivity or helping a dog focus amidst distractions, the trainers at Dog Training Elite of Richmond utilize their expertise to help dogs thrive.

TRAINING TECHNIQUES THAT FOSTER CONNECTION

The training techniques employed at Dog Training Elite of Richmond are rooted in a balanced approach. Hearn emphasizes, “We consider ourselves balanced trainers. All humane methods are on the table.” This flexibility allows trainers to establish effective learning strategies tailored to each dog’s unique personality. “Every dog is different, and we establish the most effective way to train each dog for what they need,” he adds.

Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of the training philosophy. As Hearn puts it, “If a dog does not receive praise, it will not enjoy the training and will not learn well.” This understanding reflects the broader concept that training a dog is akin to teaching a child; clear communication and positive feedback are essential for success.

THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIALIZATION

Socialization is a vital aspect of dog training that goes beyond simply having dogs interact with one another. Hearn elaborates, “Socialization in the dog training world is actually more than just having dogs around each other.” The facility exposes dogs to various stimuli, helping them become comfortable with new experiences, sounds, and environments. “The more socialized they are, the easier it is for them to focus and the better they learn,” Hearn explains. This emphasis on socialization lays the groundwork for happy, well-adjusted pets that can seamlessly integrate into family activities.

“Dogs are creatures of habit and routine. If you build in training as part of their routine, they understand that this is their job.”

EMPOWERING OWNERS FOR SUCCESS

A key component of successful dog training is owner involvement. Hearn emphasizes, “If the owner is not on board, the training will likely not succeed.” This principle drives the philosophy at Dog Training Elite of Richmond, where building a relationship between dogs and their owners is paramount. “The dog must see its humans as leaders and respect them for it,” he states. By fostering this respect, dogs are empowered to thrive in their training and daily lives. Training at home is equally important, and Hearn advises owners to dedicate just 15-20 minutes a day to practice with their pets. “Dogs are creatures of habit and routine. If you build in training as part of their routine, they understand that this is their job,” he says. This consistent practice not only reinforces learning but also strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner.

TAILORED TECHNIQUES FOR UNIQUE PERSONALITIES

Every dog has its own personality and temperament, and the trainers at Dog Training Elite of Richmond are adept at adapting their techniques accordingly. Hearn confidently asserts, “We have trained multiple dogs of the same breed with different personalities and demeanors.” This individualized approach is essential for success, as trainers work to identify the best strategies for each dog.

COMMITMENT TO LIFELONG LEARNING

The trainers at Dog Training Elite of Richmond are committed to staying updated on the latest trends and techniques in dog training. Hearn reveals, “We have a Learning Management system that is periodically updated.” By encouraging trainers to research and discuss various methods, the facility ensures that its staff remains at the forefront of effective training practices.

COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAMS FOR LASTING RESULTS

Training at Dog Training Elite of Richmond typically follows a two-phased process. Hearn explains, “We do obedience training first, then bring the dogs to group class to proof and further hone those skills.” This structured approach helps build confidence in both dogs and their owners, allowing them to enjoy public outings together.

For families looking to improve their training skills, Dog Training Elite of Richmond offers valuable resources and workshops. “We record all of our training sessions at our facility,” Hearn shares, encouraging owners to participate in “Drop-in” days for additional support and feedback.

PREPARING FOR TRAINING SUCCESS

As families prepare to embark on their training journey, Hearn emphasizes the importance of involvement

from the outset. “All of our facility programs come with at least two in-home appointments,” he explains. This ensures that clients are well-prepared and comfortable as they transition to group classes.

In a world where the bond between children and pets is cherished, Dog Training Elite of Richmond stands as a beacon of hope for families seeking to foster harmonious relationships with their canine companions. With a commitment to effective training, socialization, and owner involvement, the facility is dedicated to ensuring that every family can enjoy the joys of having a welltrained dog. As Hearn aptly puts it, “We are the last dog trainer you will ever need!”

For more information and consultation options with Paul and his team, please visit Dog Training Elite online at https://dogtrainingelite.com/richmond

“If the owner is not on board, the training will likely not succeed-The dog must see its humans as leaders and respect them for it.”

ARTICLE BY AARON M. SWART, MSW | PHOTOGRAPHY

CAPTURING THE BOND

BY AMANDA RAE LINAS

AMANDA LINAS OF BELOVED PET AND EQUINE PHOTOGRAPHY

When it comes to the enchanting world of pet and equine photography, Amanda Linas has carved a niche that beautifully intertwines her love for animals and her passion for capturing life’s moments. With a background

“PETS

Her passion for animals has been equally profound. “I’ve worked with animals since I was a teenager,” she shares, which includes roles as a pet care technician, dog groomer, assistant trainer, and rescue volunteer. This hands-on

AND HORSES SIGNIFICANTLY CONTRIBUTE TO THE HAPPINESS AND WELL-BEING OF CHILDREN.”

steeped in art and a lifelong affinity for animals, Amanda has transformed her journey from a high school photography teacher to a full-time photographer specializing in pets and horses.

“I have loved photography since high school,” she recalls, reflecting on her early days with disposable cameras and her first film photography class. “After a couple of career changes, I became a high school photography teacher, which is when I got more serious about my own photography.” It was in 2021 that Amanda decided to take the leap into professional photography fulltime, inspired by a pet photography workshop that illuminated her path. “I could be in the most gorgeous place... and I would find myself taking pictures of the dogs and cats there. So, when I thought about the fact that I could do that for a living, it just made sense.”

experience with animals has translated seamlessly into her photography. “Having experience in working with animals, knowing their behavior, having patience and understanding made photographing them come natural to me.”

Amanda’s journey into photography wasn’t merely a career shift; it was an evolution of her artistic expression. Early influences included candid moments with friends and pets, particularly her dog Hercules. “I look back to my early documentary work and most of it ended up involving animals and specifically the human-animal connection.” This connection remains at the heart of her photography, especially during her storytelling sessions, where she captures the essence of families and their beloved pets. “I particularly love horses with their people, and families with their pets,” she notes.

CONTINUED >

The emotional ties between children and their pets are especially significant. “Pets and horses contribute to the happiness and well-being of children significantly,” Amanda explains. “They both provide a special kind of love that humans can’t, as well as teach them about life.” She emphasizes how the act of caring for animals can encourage empathy, confidence, and responsibility in children, while also serving as a source of unconditional support and joy.

However, photographing children and animals does not come without its challenges. “The biggest challenge is getting everyone to cooperate at the same time,” she acknowledges. To overcome this, Amanda employs a playful approach. “Rather than having them just sit there and pose, I will give prompts, ask questions, play games, and mix up posing and candid moments.” Her background as a teacher has equipped her with the patience and skills necessary to navigate these lively sessions.

One session stands out vividly in her memory—a young girl with her beloved pony. “Even though she was the only one in the family who rode, the whole family fell in love with this pony,” Amanda recalls fondly. “The session was calm, fun and special. The weather and light were perfect, and they were just enjoying themselves.” Such moments encapsulate the joy Amanda aims to convey through her work.

To capture the unique personalities of animals, Amanda takes a personal approach. “I will talk to the owner to find out about their personalities,” she explains. “I typically let them get comfortable with me first. When they are comfortable and having a good time, that’s when their personality is going to come out.” This attention to detail ensures that each photograph is a true reflection of the animal’s character.

“PHOTOGRAPHY’S

ALWAYS A GREAT WAY TO PRESERVE MEMORIES.”

Preparation for a photo session with both kids and pets is crucial for Amanda. “I’ll want to make sure we are somewhere comfortable for everyone,” she advises. “I schedule during a time when the children are likely to be well rested and the animals will be more calm.” Setting expectations and planning fun activities helps create an enjoyable atmosphere, paving the way for successful sessions.

Beyond photography, Amanda draws inspiration from her love for travel and community involvement. “I love to travel. Seeing new places, meeting people and exploring inspires me,” she shares. Her commitment to volunteering at a horse rescue adds depth to her artistic vision, allowing her to remain connected to the animal world while fostering creativity.

Staying current with trends in photography is also essential for Amanda. “As a photographer, I am always learning and improving my craft,” she explains. “By chatting with other photographers, working on personal projects, and attending photography workshops, I continue to grow and learn.” This dedication ensures that her work remains fresh and relevant.

For parents considering a photo session with their children and pets, Amanda offers valuable advice: “My advice is to not wait. It’s really easy to put off booking a photo session because life gets so busy.” She emphasizes the importance of capturing these fleeting moments, as kids and animals grow quickly. “Find a photographer who is experienced with both kids and horses or pets,” she suggests, ensuring a smoother experience and better images.

Photography’s role in preserving memories is something Amanda is passionate about. “Photography has always been a great way to preserve memories,” she asserts. In a world where digital images can easily get lost, Amanda emphasizes the importance of tangible prints. “I work with the top and most unique professional print labs... to offer beautiful museum-quality printed artwork, photo boxes, and albums with the photos from our session.”

Looking to the future, Amanda has exciting plans on the horizon. “This past year, I released my first book called Dog Days of Summer,” she shares. “In the future, I plan to work on another book, maybe a second edition.” Her commitment to community shines through as she aims to host pet-centric events that are child-friendly, fostering connections among pet lovers.

As Amanda continues to capture the bonds between children and their beloved animals through her lens, she remains dedicated to sharing the joy and love that these connections bring. “To me, this is the best way to preserve memories of the bond between kids and their animals,” she concludes, reminding us all that every moment is worth capturing.

In order to hear about these events and information about sessions, you can join Amanda’s email list at https:// www.belovedpetphoto.com . There is a pop-up to subscribe, or a link is available at the bottom of the home page.

Birthday in a Box

Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.

And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include – think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more. These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!

ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE

PHOTOGRAPHY

QIANA KELSCH

PREP:

Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.

• 1 Box of cake mix

• 1 Container of frosting

• 1 Can of lemon-lime soda

• 1 Disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid

• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)

• Party decorations of choice, including candles

STEP ONE:

Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.

STEP TWO:

Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.

STEP THREE:

Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.

THE ELEMENTS

Collect your essentials and special decorations

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid

TIME TO DELIVER

Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry

ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER:

Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same – choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!

Summertime is busy time, and that often means eating on the go. Whether you’re at constant baseball games or meeting up for a regular play date, you’re probably bringing food along with you to feed your crew. And there’s no meal that’s as on-the-go friendly as the peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

And don’t get me wrong — I love a PB&J. But months of eating anything can get a little old, and this summer, I started to wonder if there was a way to zhuzh up the ol’ standby.

I was actually inspired by a sandwich at one of my favorite places to eat. All the restaurant’s sandwiches feature cheese. So color me surprised when I found that they had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the menu — with the addition of sheep’s cheese. And cue more surprise when I discovered that it was absolutely delicious.

IT’S PEANUT BUTTER JELLY TIME

CHANGE UP YOUR PB&J GAME BY DISCOVERING NEW WAYS TO ENJOY THE OL’ STANDBY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE CURRID

All summer, I was craving this sandwich, a fresh PB&J sandwich on sourdough. I decided to try my own at home with what I had on hand, which was goat cheese. And it opened up a whole new world for me.

The PB&J with goat cheese started being my standard poolside sandwich this summer, and then I started talking to other people about it, spreading the gospel of the PB&J with cheese, and they would share their PB&J innovations with me. You could toast them! Put chips on them! Add bacon! The possibilities were endless.

The PB&J is so nostalgic and, yeah, sometimes, you just want a really basic one on white bread with grape jelly and creamy Jif like you had when you were a kid. But it’s also fun to be playful about it, which is nostalgic in its own way, too — being innovative and doing something a little weird or against the rules, just like when you were a kid.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO CHANGE UP YOUR PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH:

Change up your bread: One easy way to liven up your sandwich is to use different bread. That sourdough you may have learned to make during the pandemic is a perfect bread to use, or you could opt for milk bread, a Japanese option that is fluffier and sweeter than white bread.

Get nutty: While most toddlers would balk at crunchy peanut butter, you’re an adult! You can try new things! If you don’t have the crunchy type on hand, you can also just add peanuts between your layers of peanut butter and jelly to get that crunchy fix.

Toast it: One of my favorite ways to make an “elevated” PB&J is to simply toast it. It’s really similar to grilled cheese — make your PB&J, and then spread some butter on the outside on both sides. Melt some butter in a pan and add your sandwich, flipping once browned. If you want to get really fancy, sprinkle some powdered sugar on before you cut into it. I promise it will be your new late-night craving.

Fresh fruit: This is probably the simplest way to up your PB&J game, since technically, you’ve already got fruit on your sandwich in the form of jelly. Try adding some smashed raspberries or cut strawberries to yours next time you make one!

Say cheese: As I said earlier, you’ve gotta try cheese on your PB&J. I’m a fan of goat cheese, specifically the honey variety, but plain versions or those with dried fruit are great, too. The trick is to set it out for 15-20 minutes before making your sandwich to soften it a bit, so it’s easier to spread on delicate bread.

Tiny Explorer With a Big Heart

From sunny naps to soothing hearts, Martini makes every moment a little brighter.

BY AMANDA RAE

Martini the pug may be small, but her sense of adventure is mighty. At 8 years old, she’s flown with her family, dipped her paws in swimming pools, and explored new places with enthusiasm. She loves exploring. She adores car rides, kids, and her equine brother, Rossi. When she’s not on the move, she’s soaking up the sun or proudly entertaining herself with her toy collection. Being an only child suits her just fine. She loves food and thinks anything that crinkles must be for her. Martini’s true superpower is her heart. She has a remarkable gift for sensing emotions and offering comfort, whether someone’s feeling homesick, stressed, or just needs a little love. She doesn’t just brighten a room, she brings peace to it.