Local Partners & Resources

Colorado Veterinary Specialty Group (CVSG) - does allow outpatient ultrasound on a first come first serve, (Best for clients to arrive ~8 am for best chance to get that done.)

Mountain West Veterinary Imaging (MWVI) - Dr. Crissy Boozer 

BalanceIt

American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (DACVIM) - Nutrition

Humane Colorado (previously DDFL)

Feline Fix

Spay Today

Eye Specialists for Animals (Dr. Dugan)

Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists (Dr. Chavkin)

Apex Vets (Dr. Tanja Nuhsbaum & Dr. Trish Gearhart)

Eye Vets (Dr. Hammond)

Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists

Apex Vets (Dr. Diamond & Dr. Messinger)

Rocky Mountain Veterinary Neurology

AESC Parker - Dr. Racheal Song

VCA Alameda East - Dr. Kelli Kopf & Dr. Kelly Crawford

Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital

Spire Veterinary Surgery (Dr. Kevin McAbee, DVM, DACVS) - 

Gall Mobile Veterinary Surgery (Dr. Trent Gall, DVM, DACVS & Dr. Josie Mallinckrodt, DVM, DACVS)

Spry Companions (Dr. Lee Breshears & Dr. Nate Miller)

Five Points Animal Hospital (Dr. Julie Nelson)

Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center (AESC), Parker

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center (AESC), Parker

Colorado Veterinary Specialty Group (CVSG)

Spire Veterinary Surgery (Dr. Kevin McAbee, DVM, DACVS)

Hampden Family Pet Hospital (Dr. Mackenzie Skinner & Dr. Emily Begin)

Five Points Animal Clinic (Dr. Julie Nelson)

General Practice referrals:

Animal Dental Clinic (Dr. Monique Weldon)

Hampden Family Pet Hospital (Dr. Julie Nelson, Dr. Emily Begin, & Dr. Sharon Eckert)

Cottage Veterinary Clinic (Dr. Eric Hanson & Dr. Matt Spiro)

Belleview Animal Clinic (Dr. Mike Holmberg)

Board Certified Dentist referrals:

Apex Vets (Dr. Donald Beebe)

Animal Dental Care and Oral Surgery (Dr. Vall & Dr. Huff)

Colorado State University (CSU), Oncology

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center (AESC), Parker (Dr. Marie Janson / Dr. Janet Lori)

VCA Alameda East (Dr. Anne Skope)

VRCC - Oncology (Dr. Robin Elmslie)

VCA Deer Creek (Dr. Phyllis Glawe)

MOVES - Front Range Mobile Veterinary Specialists (Dr. Christina Bové)

VRCC – Cardiology (Dr. Julie Martin)

CVCA Cardiac Care for Pets @ VCA Alameda East (Dr. Kendra LaFauci)(720) 970-1970

Choice Vet Specialists (Dr. Carol Loyer)

Animal Emergency & Specialty Center (AESC), Parker

Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital

VCA Alameda East

Professional dog trainers focus on teaching specific skills and manners.

Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT, CPDT-KA, CPDT-KSA)
KA - Requires a minimum of 300 hours of training experience and passing a comprehensive written exam
KSA - KA requirements plus a hands-on experience

A Certified Professional Dog Trainer teaches basic obedience and manners for everyday situations. Certifications are offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and indicate that the trainer has demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in science-based, humane training methods.

Training Focus: 

• Basic obedience (e.g., sit, stay, come)

• Manners training (e.g., leash walking, not jumping on people)

• Life skills for everyday pet ownership 

American Association of Professional Dog Trainers (AAPDT) - Locate a Trainer

Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP) - Find a Trainer

Recommendations in Colorado:

1. Denver Women’s Correctional Facility - Prison Trained K-9 Companion Program (PTKCP)

2. All Star Paws Dog Training (Jenna Gallichio, CSAT, ABCDT) - also works with Separation Anxiety

3. Animal Care Center (Eric Gillaspy CPDT, CDBC)

4. Canine Dimensions (Brendan Cox, CDBA, CMT)
   *also designated as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator by the American Kennel Club (AKC)

5. Positive Dog Training Colorado Facebook Group

6. Dog Wizard (Romario Romain)
   *also designated as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator by the American Kennel Club (AKC)

Certified Master Trainer (CMT)
Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
Animal Behavior College - Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)

Professional dog trainers focus on teaching specific skills and manners, while behavior consultants work with more complex emotional and psychological issues like fear and aggression. The industry is unregulated in the U.S., so certifications from respected organizations like the Certification Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)are crucial markers of expertise.

Please note: For more complex behavioral issues, look for certifications and education, such as a DVM-AVSAB (Veterinary Behaviorist), CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist) or ACAAB (Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist), which require advanced degrees and experience.

Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC*, CBCC-KA^) 
*Certified by the IAABC
^Certified by the CCPDT

Dog Behavior Consultants work with serious behavioral issues by addressing the underlying emotions and root causes. They are equipped to handle more complex cases than a typical trainer. They focus on behavior modification for complex issues, such as:

• Aggression and biting

• Separation anxiety

• Fears, phobias, and compulsions

• Resource guarding 
  

Behavior Consultants (Colorado):

1. Animal Care Center (Eric Gillaspy CPDT, CDBC)

2. All Star Paws Dog Training (Jenna Gallichio, ABCDT, CSAT) *Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer

3. Ursa Acree CPDT-KA, FFCT: ursaacreetraining@gmail.com or (303) 656-9463

VIRTUAL CONSULTANTS:

1. Maggie Sauer CPDT-KA, FFCSP: maggiesster@gmail.com or thebehaviorgurus.com

2. Ursa Acree CPDT-KA, FFCT: ursaacreetraining@gmail.com or (303) 656-9463

3. Casey Lomanoco, KPA-CTP, FFCT: witsenddogbehavior@gmail.com

4. Bobbie Bhambree CDBC, CPDT-KA: bobbiebhambree@gmail.com (based in NY)

Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCT)
Fear-Free Certified Shelter Professional (FFCSP)
Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
Animal Behavior College - Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)

American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
(A group of Veterinarians, Veterinary Technicians, and Doctorate level Animal Behaviorists)

AVSAB Find a Professional Directory

Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorists (in Colorado):

1. Vet Behavior Center (Dr. Ariel Fagen)

2. VCA Hospital (Dr. Natalie Estep)

3. Dr. C Vet Behavior (Dr. E’Lise Christensen)

Board Candidate - Behavior Residency Trained (in Colorado):

1. Animal Care Center (Dr. Simone Sidel)

What do the letters mean?
DACVB (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists) These veterinarians are board-certified specialists with extensive post-graduate training in animal behavior. DACVBs are qualified to diagnose and treat medical problems in animals, including prescribing medications and behavior modification plans to treat these conditions.

PhD (Individuals who have completed a PhD degree in animal behavior or a related field) This degree is research and theory related, and requires contributions to the animal behavior literature. These consultants cannot prescribe medications but often work closely with a veterinarian who can.

CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist) These individuals have completed a graduate degree in animal behavior or a related field and have research experience as well as clinical experience working with animals. CAABs are qualified to evaluate and manage behavioral problems in animals, but cannot prescribe medications. They typically work closely with a veterinarian who can.

K9s 4 Mobility

• Owner-Trained Course » The dog must be at least one year of age, have passed the Canine Good Citizen Test (GCT), and be altered and current on all vaccinations before K9s 4 Mobility will considered an evaluation for possible training.  Once accepted into the owner-trained program, the person must be willing to travel to K9s 4 Mobility's training facility multiple times before certification of the team.  The owner of the dog will be doing all of the training.  The dog cannot reside at K9s 4 Mobility but will continue to live with the owner.  The owner will keep records of all training for a minimum of 120 hours with 30 of those hours occurring in public.  The dog must be trained to perform at least three skill tasks that directly mitigate the owner's physical disability.  This program is not a quick certification but at least a 6-month commitment of training and evaluations before certification can be completed.

• Trained Dog Purchase Application» Waiting time for receiving an Assistance dog can be between 1-2 years; Once the dog has been selected, the dog will be in formal training for at least six months before placement.

Assistance Dogs of the West (New Mexico)

• Owner Self Training Course >> Dogs should be under 3 years of age and must pass a temperament assessment to participate in this program. ADW cannot guarantee that every dog that enters OST program will achieve the standards necessary to be a service dog. This program takes place in Santa Fe, New Mexico and requires weekly in-person training sessions. Owner/Self-Training teams must work with ADW for a minimum of six months.

• Trained Dog Purchase (1-3 year wait list; Dogs are usually placed with a client when they are around 2 years old; Prices can range from $10,000 to $20,000)

  • Autism/Mobility/Veteran PTSD

  • Diabetic Alert / Seizure Response

  • Facility, Courthouse, Crisis Response Dogs

FLYING & AIRLINES
There is no official ADA service dog certification for airlines; instead, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires airlines to use specific DOT forms to verify a service animal's health and training. You must complete the "Service Animal Air Transportation Form," and for flights longer than 8 hours, the "Relief Attestation Form" as well, submitting them to the airline in advance. Airlines cannot ask for a dog's registration, certification, or proof of training in place of these forms. 

Service dog vests, harnesses, or ID cards are not accepted in place of the required DOT forms.

The airline CAN The airline can ask for the completed DOT forms to ensure the animal is trained to perform tasks for a disability, is up-to-date on vaccinations, and can fit in the foot space of your seat without blocking the aisle.

Airlines CANNOT require you to register your dog, show a certificate, or prove the nature of your disability. 

International Travel: Every country has unique Destination Requirement rules for animal entry. Consult with USDA -APHIS for exact requirements of “Traveling with a Pet”.

• Vaccination records: Rabies is a common requirement, often with specific timeframes before travel. Other vaccinations may also be necessary.

• Health certificates: Some countries require a specific health certificate from a veterinarian, sometimes issued within a short period before travel.

• Microchip: A microchip may be mandatory.

• Airline confirmation: It is essential to contact the specific airline you are flying with well in advance of your travel date to understand their policy and any additional documentation they may need. 

There is no official government certification or registration for emotional support animals (ESAs); the only required document is a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional who can diagnose a mental health condition and determine that an emotional support animal is part of your treatment plan. This letter is required to qualify for housing accommodations, such as having your dog live in a "no-pets" building or waiving pet fees, under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). 

Many websites sell "emotional support animal" certificates, ID cards, or vests. These are not a substitute for the official ESA letter and have no legal standing for housing or public access.

ESAs are not the same as service animals. An ESA letter does not grant your dog public access rights, like those provided to service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), in places like stores or restaurants. 

FLYING & AIRLINES
There is no required "emotional support certification" for dogs flying on US airlines, as the Department of Transportation no longer requires them to be allowed to fly for free.

Domestic Travel:

International Travel: Every country has unique Destination Requirement rules for animal entry. Consult with USDA -APHIS for exact requirements of “Traveling with a Pet”.

• Vaccination records: Rabies is a common requirement, often with specific timeframes before travel. Other vaccinations may also be necessary.

• Health certificates: Some countries require a specific health certificate from a USDA Accredited Veterinarian, sometimes issued within a short period before travel.

• Microchip: A microchip may be mandatory.

• Airline confirmation: It is essential to contact the specific airline you are flying with well in advance of your travel date to understand their policy and any additional documentation they may need. 

International travel is complex! Do not assume that U.S. domestic rules apply for international flights, even with a U.S. airline! PLAN AHEAD!

FIND AN ACCREDITED VETERINARIAN WHO CAN HELP WITH DOMESTIC (Category 1) AND INTERNATIONAL (Category 2) TRAVELING WITH PETS.

April Lowe: aprilloweamma@gmail.com; 505-795-3301

Kismet Pet Reading (Zoey Crandell) KismetPetReadings@gmail.com / (720) 507-3803

Massage
Mile High K9 Massage (Patti Fluegel)
*HOUSECALL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE*

Canine Rehab & PT
K9 Body Shop (Tammy Wolfe)
*OFFERS ORTHOTICS / MEDICAL DEVICE FITTING*

Dog Rehab Works (Mamie Whitman, PT, CCRT)
*HOUSECALL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE*

Walking Paws Rehab
*OFFERS ORTHOTICS / MEDICAL DEVICE FITTING*

Chiropractor
Denver Central Chiropracter (Dr. Erin Moran, DC; CAC IVCA; QME)
IN-CLINIC OR HOUSECALL APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Cold Laser
K9 Body Shop (Tammy Wolfe)
Mile High K9 Massage (Patti Fluegel)

Walkin’ Pets - wheelchair fittings

Paw Friction Kit

Walking Paws Rehab

The Rehab Vets (Dr. Tracie Grub or Caitlin Leonard) - rehab also!

Zen Pet Vet (Dr. Becca Klobuchar)

Dog Rehab Works (Mamie Whitman) - physical therapy also!

AcuVet (Dr. Kathy Beattie) - Chinese herbs also!

Hamden Family Pet Hospital (Dr. Sharon Eckert & Dr. Emily Spadaro)

Pet Medical Transport - Luanne Strom, MS, DVM

• Schedule a pickup: https://petmedicaltransport.com/schedule/

• Schedule an URGENT pickup: CALL (720) 899-7114

Leash (download the App)

International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) - FIND A PET SHIPPER

Global Animal Transport 

AirPets (to and from UK only)

Pet Finder

Humane Colorado (previously Dumb Friends League)

Foothills Animal Shelter

Lifeline Puppy Rescue

iRescue

Wag.com

Rover.com

HOCAS (Dawn)

MoVET VIP Clients - Ask us for specific recommendations from Wag & Rover that our clients have used previously and LOVED!

Devine K9 Mobile Grooming (Megan Devine) *FULL*

Rainbow Mobile Grooming 

Whiskers, Paws & Tails, LLC

Mobile Pet Shine

Zoomin’ Groomin’

Paw Prints Boutique & Spa (Karissa)

VIP Pet Grooming (Kobie) *FULL*

Scenthound‍ ‍

Fetching Fido (Julie)

Aurora Pet Grooming

Sparkle Pet Grooming

Wag Hotels
**Best for owners that need something close to DIA, also has airport parking available for an additional small fee.

Club Pet

Murphy Creek Pet Resort

Harmony Pet

Boarding with medical services on site

“Catsmosphere” in Colorado Springs

Boarding & Train Program

Canine Dimensions
Denver Women’s Correctional Facility

Miscellaneous Boarding (Exotics, Birds, Pocket Pets)

Homestead Veterinary Hospital 

DogDrop Denver (Dina Silverman)

Camp Bow Wow

Hiking Daycares:

• Adventure Pup Wellness (Sarah)

• Hike Doggie

• Dogs Colorado

• Denver Dog Hikers

• Active Dog CO

• Happy Go Hiking

• Take a Hike

Trap-Spay/Neuter-Return: How You Can Help Community Cats

No Kill Colorado

Feline Fix 

Metro Denver Cat

Bergen Spay Neuter Alliance

PawsCo's TNR Ninjas

Alley Cat Army TNR

JJ's Helping Paws (Fremont, CO)

Northern Colorado Friends of Ferals (NCFF)

Alley Cat Allies

Resources

• Animal Help Now: A national app and website that directs you to the closest and most appropriate wildlife help, 24/7.

• Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW): Provides guidance and a list of licensed rehabilitators for orphaned, injured, or sick wildlife. CLICK HERE for Public Wildlife Rehab List

Removal of Critters

1. Critter Control (for raccoons, bats, squirrels, rodents, opossums, prairie dog, beavers)

2. Humane Harassment - Sight-Sound-Smell - near their den

   1. Bright light (motion activated is ideal)

   2. Radio- all-talk station, on LOUD

   3. Rags soaked in apple cider vinegar

Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers

• Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: The largest organization of its kind in Colorado, treats and releases orphaned, injured and sick birds (except for birds of prey), and small and medium-size mammals. They give preference to animals found in Boulder County but will accept others if they have room. Found an animal? GO HERE

• Rocky Mountain Wild Heart: Focuses on small mammals like squirrels, chipmunks, rats, mice, gophers, and prairie dogs.

• Northern Colorado Wildlife Center: Primarily rehabilitates reptiles and amphibians, but also assists with other wildlife rescues in the northern part of the state.

• Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance: Specializes in raptors, including eagles, hawks, and owls.

• Colorado Reptile Humane Society: Rehabilitates native, non-venomous reptiles and amphibians.