Growing up I, like many other kids in the suburbs, had a dog. His name was Clyde (named after Walt Frazier of the NY Knicks). As an adult, I was periodically exposed to other people's pets. I always enjoyed them when they were around, but errantly believed that owning a pet-no less a dog in New York City-would be a daunting task. So I never gave it any consideration.
However, one day I started noticing all of the dogs in my neighborhood and in Central Park. This sparked me into investigating the possibilities of getting a dog. After several months of researching different dogs' characteristics and personalities; speaking to numerous dog owners; and contacting various breeders, I found the dog who would forever change my world for the better.
On April Fool's day 1995 Rascal, a Cesky Terrier, graced this world with his presence. At five months old, Rascal was shipped by airplane to me from Ohio. Other than seeing him on video interacting with his human family, I bought him sight unseen. As a new dog owner, I immediately immersed myself into the dog culture of New York City. Taking Rascal on endless walks through my neighborhood and Central Park, I befriended many dogs and dog owners alike. During our conversations (with the owners of course) they would usually ask me legal questions regarding the law as it pertains to their landlord, vet, groomer, dog sitter and walker.
Immediately I became aware of the need for a practitioner who not only specializes in Pet Law, but who also takes seriously the bonds a pet owner has with their pet. Additionally, since I had been working at legal services for ten years representing tenants in housing court, I knew that the one specialty where people with pets need lawyers is disputes with their landlord.
Over time Rascal became my "mostly companion," and I could not conceive of my life without him. I finally fully understood the passion that people had for this special member of their family, and the extent which they would go to fight for their rights in any legal dispute involving their pet. As a result, I quit my legal services job and started my Pet Law practice.
As a pet lawyer, I continue my tradition of fighting for the underdog.