ALI

Owner, Creator, Professional Dog Lover 

I can’t imagine what my life would be like without the company of animals, and the thing is, I can’t remember ever not feeling this way. Growing up, I always knew that I was destined to work with animals in some way, shape, or form. Some people describe themselves as either a dog person or a cat person. I am definitely both.

From a young age, I made it my mission to rescue anything that I could - baby birds, injured turtles, frogs, even the tadpoles my uncle kept in a bucket to use as fishing bait, you name it. I was deeply fascinated by everything in the animal kingdom. As an adult, I still have an inherent desire to be outdoors in nature, in the presence of animals. I am eternally grateful that I grew up surrounded by a family of animal lovers, and throughout my childhood we had numerous family pets. One of the most special to me, was my very first dog, Mozie. She was a sweet, gentle, food driven Beagle Hound mix that we rescued from a local shelter. She was around 3 when she came to us, and though she had a beautiful soul with a heart of gold, she had the recall of.. well a Beagle. I can vividly recall taking her out for walks as a little girl and being dragged along… the classic “I didn’t walk her.. she walked me” scenario! Over the years, Mozie would take off on us several times in pursuit of a scent, and for that reason she was limited to a life of walks on leash. I still hold intense memories of frantically chasing her down the street for blocks, unsuccessfully shouting her name.. she never did turn around and run back. There are times now, that I look back at these events with little bits of regret. I wish I had the knowledge then, to give her the life of off leash freedom, and adventure that she deserved.

My struggles and experiences of the past are ultimately, what led me to pursue a greater knowledge of dog training, and a career in the pet care industry. I wouldn’t be where I am today without Mozie, the challenging family dog that gave me a true passion for working with and truly understanding canine behavior. I have since worked with hundreds of dogs, and each and every one of them has taught me something different. I am constantly looking to further my education in the dog training world.. and I will never stop learning. Helping people and their dogs build fulfilling relationships, has become a mission of mine. It is my goal to become the best learner, translator, and companion that I can be for our four legged friends.

Van Island Pups was founded to give your pets a fun place to learn, grow, and have fun! In the past few years, we have quickly evolved into one of the most reliable and unique dog walking companies in Victoria, BC. At Van Island Pups, your dogs health and wellbeing is our passion. We don’t take it lightly that you have entrusted us with the care of your pup. Our mission is for you to be able to leave your bestfriend in our care, worry and stress free, knowing that you have someone who loves and cares about them just as much as you do.