October 2004

I have known quite a few dogs in my life and have had the pleasure of sharing my days with some of them.   Every so often a dog comes along that is extra special.  For some reason that dog leaves an impression on you that somehow changes your life.  Cody Yandura was like that for me.

I met Cody a number of years ago while I was working for a local veterinarian.  She was always happy when she stayed with us, and she had this endearing habit of cocking her head slightly over her left shoulder whenever I spoke to her.  At that time she shared her home with her "mom and dad", Lynne and Gary, and a canine companion named Dakota.  After Dakota passed away a few years ago, Cody started to have problems with being left alone.  Lynne and Gary would good naturedly tell stories of mattresses being shredded, big-screen TV's being destroyed, and all manner of household furniture being chewed.  It was at the time that I was considering opening a doggie daycare.  When I talked with Lynne and Gary about how doggie daycare was very helpful in cases of separation anxiety and that I was looking into opening one, they both said, "Sign us up!" 

It was because of Cody that I had the courage to jump in with both feet and open Doggie DayCare of Fayette.  It was through her that I realized that I could, in fact, provide a safe haven for dogs that could otherwise harm themselves (not to mention their owners' pocketbooks!). 

Cody passed away a few days ago and I will miss her funny little head tilt, her kind eyes, and the smell of her hair when I kissed her head.  Thank you Cody from all of us here at DDC.  We will miss you very, very much.

Paula