Paws For A Moment was established in 2002 by Charlotte Petrey "the DogMa".

Here Charlotte describes what drew her towards her work with animals....

"As far back as I can remember, there was always a dog or a cat in my family. I grew up with dogs and cats. I always remember having them around to pet and talk to, or just to hang out with. As I became a young adult, it became very apparent that I had developed a special connection with pets. As I got older, all I could think about was getting my own pets to care for and share my life with. I had developed a deep passion for animals and especially for dogs that continues on today.

I'll never forget one of the first things that I did as a young adult. It was right after I got my first house; I rushed out to adopt a dog of my own. That day at the shelter was one of the happiest and proudest days of my life. I adopted a beautiful German Shepherd mix puppy from the Nebraska Humane Society (NHS) and named her Mindy Mae. Mindy was my pride and joy for over 14 years. She traveled with me on holidays and she moved from Nebraska to Texas with me. She was my steady companion through some of the most influential times of my life. That day at the shelter also started what turned out to be a lifetime of volunteer work. I applied for and was accepted as a volunteer at the Humane Society, a relationship which lasted for over seven years. For me, it only seemed right to help other dogs, whether at a dog shelter, in a rescue organization, or just on the street. I wanted to help them all. Working with shelter and rescue dogs provided me with invaluable experiences. My work with German Shepherd Rescue, fostering and rehabilitating over twenty-five of those powerful breed dogs, was some of the most rewarding work of my career. It was so rewarding to take dogs that had been abused and beaten down; to work with them day in and day out; and then watch as they blossomed back into the loving companion they were meant to be. Working in the large dog kennel at the SPCA, it's hard to find words to describe what it's like to help these animals.

Shelter and rescue dogs have been incredible teachers for me. Not only have I learned a great deal about myself through working with dogs, I have also learned what dogs need in their environment, and why they behave the way they do when any of those needs are not being met."

Charlotte understands dog behavior and is a very experienced dog handler and trainer. She understands how to communicate with your dog and she can teach you how to do the same.

Charlotte lives in Houston, Texas where she runs a successful dog behavior and training business and just opened a doggie daycare and dog training facility. Charlotte has handled and trained dogs for more than 20 years.

Charlotte's current pack of four-legged furry friends includes three dogs (Harley,Radar, and Demi), a cat (Parker), and a box turtle (Mango). OK, so the turtle's not so furry. In addition to her own pets, Charlotte often has another pet or two around the house while she is boarding for a client or for family and friends.