In the heart of Milwaukee, a city known for its vibrant community and dog-friendly events, our story with Finley began—a story that extends beyond the start of a dog treat business to the profound impact of a rescue dog who changed our lives. Jared and I, though familiar with the joy dogs bring from our childhood pets, were embarking on a new adventure to find our first dog together. Our path to Finley was filled with anticipation, hope, and the kind of love that only a four-legged friend can inspire.
Our journey to find Finley led us through adoption events, home visits, and a waiting period that tested our patience but never wavered our determination. We immersed ourselves in the local pet community, volunteering at Jrs Pups N Stuff, and even selecting a kangaroo toy and a chuck-it ball in anticipation of the day we'd bring home a dog! Each event, each volunteer hour, brought us closer to understanding the life we yearned for with a dog of our own.
It was on a day of remembrance for my late mother that fate intervened. To honor her memory, we visited the dogs at the shelter. That's when Rusty, a dog whose photos had caught our eye online for his unique coloring and who would soon be known as Finley, entered our lives. Rescued as a stray in Alabama and brought up to Wisconsin for a chance at a new life, Finley's journey was one of resilience and hope. Despite his initial fear of other dogs, a testament to his challenging beginnings, his spirit was undiminished. He greeted us with a golden retriever-like warmth, his tail wagging in anticipation and an immediate display of trust as he rolled over for belly rubs.
The connection was instantaneous. Though other families were interested, it was clear to the rescue that Finley had found his forever home with us. His transformation from a stray, fearful of his own kind, to a beloved family member symbolizes the power of love and patience. He quickly became the center of our world, embodying the spirit of adventure and joy that we seek to share.
Finley inspired us to cherish every moment of adventure and create Bark River Pets, a pet brand dedicated to enriching the lives of dogs with adventurous spirits through quality treats. Each treat we offer is a tribute to Finley's love for exploration, his resilience, and his happiness in the simplest pleasures, like fetch and swimming. Our mission expanded to support other dogs in finding their forever homes, donating to rescues, and advocating for a life filled with canine adventure and love, just like Finley.
As we celebrate Finley's Gotcha Day on March 29, 2017, we're reminded of the journey that brought him into our lives. That pivotal day, March 24, 2017, marked by my mother's birthday, feels like an alignment, bringing Rusty (now Finley) into our lives. His gentle nature, fearlessness in overcoming his anxieties, and boundless love have been our guiding light.
Finley's integration into our family, his acceptance, and his ability to overcome his initial fears reflect the transformative power of love and patience. He has enriched every aspect of our lives.
Reflecting on the past eight years with Finley fills us with immense gratitude. Gratitude for the shared adventures, the unconditional love, and the countless lives touched by his presence. Finley represents more than just the inspiration behind Bark River Pets; he embodies the hope, joy, and transformative journey of every rescue dog.
In celebrating Finley, we honor every dog awaiting a loving home, every family longing for a furry companion, and the beautiful journey that unites them. Finley's rescue story is a testament to the impact one dog can have, inspiring us to spread that joy through Bark River Pets, one treat at a time. Here's to Finley, the heart and soul of our mission, and the greatest dog, whose paws have paved the way for a legacy of love and adventure.
Happy Tails, Happy Trails!
