Chris Barrett established Splash in 2003. Chris became very aware of the need for a safe, clean canine swimming facility on California's Central Coast after her dog, Abbie, got hit by a car. Abbie spent a year healing, having surgeries, and rehabilitating. It was difficult to find, close by, the various modalities that Abbie needed to get well, so Chris and Abbie traveled.
Chris began visualizing her dream of building a canine swim facility soon after Abbie's recovery from her accident. She began by training under Susan Marino, founder/owner of Angel's Gate Animal Hospice and Rehabilitation Center in Long Island, NY. Susan's work has been featured in (to name a few) "The Whole Dog Journal," "People" magazine, "CBS Early Morning Show," and "Oprah." Susan is truly an inspiring person.
Abbie also played a large role as a teacher of what dogs can do under difficult circumstances. Chris has years of practical experience working at Splash since 2003. She is enrolled in the Purdue University distance learning program for Veterinary Technician Certification. Chris has been featured in San Luis Obispo County's Telegram-Tribune, Morro Bay's Sun-Bulletin, New Times, local TV station KSBY, Cheri Lucas's "Good Dog TV" show, and in renowned Clicker Trainer, Kay Lawrence's publication –"Teaching Dogs".
"Splash is dedicated to Abbie Barret. It was Abbie's ability to overcome her physical disabilities after her car accident to lead a quality life that inspired me to begin Splash. Her life lessons taught me about the unsinkable good spirit of dogs."
~ Chris Barrett
Duke has lost 50 pounds after this photo was taken with the help of thyroid medication, a good diet, exercise, and of course, swimming.
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