Friendly, outgoing, sincere and knowledgeable is Johnelle, the owner of Emma Marie's in Mattapoisett. What a pleasure to know her.
After a wonderful tour of the grooming, day care, boarding area, retail shop, and outside play area, I saw a rainbow of hanging leashes of the dogs just for day care alone. Emma Marie's averages 90 dogs a day, with a large staff to help. The four groomers alone tend to six to eight dogs a day. Amazing facility. Emma Marie's is named for Johnelle's first Australian shepherd she acquired by saving money as a teen. Next came Emma Marie's cousin, Mally who is now 8, Mally's daughter, Senora age 5, and her daughter "L"born on a friend Leslie's birthday. Obviously all are perfectly compatible. And what respect and attention these pups give to Johnelle!
Partner in crime with Johnelle's son, Christian age 14 months, is "L" letting the toddler climb on top so he can be high enough to crawl over table tops plus explore all sorts new places and get into mischief. In return, "L" relishes Christian's food droppings. As for Senora, she's a "big baby," affectionate, and loves to ride in her friend Kyle's vintage Porsche. Mally, well, she's the big Mama.
Responding to the question, "What's the greatest thing about your job?" Johnelle said,, "It doesn't matter who you are, or your background, or your material goods. The dogs are just like us...some days are better than others, but dogs are always loyal and devoted and put a smile on your face."
With 80 degree radiant heat floor in the winter boarding area, lots of playmates and play areas, friendly faces and a balanced diet, I'm quite envious of dog life at Emma Marie's! Thanks, Johnelle, for sharing your story and the honor of displaying my portrait of "L" prominently in your reception area.
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