5550 W. Gillespie Bridge Rd. Columbia, MO 65203. Map (573) 446-ARFF (2733). boarding@southpawacres.com

Faye Nowell, Owner/Proprietor

Faye is a Columbia native, and has always loved dogs. Over the years she has served as guardian to a variety of dogs, fostered many others, and still helps local shelters find forever homes for canines in need. She has volunteered with the Central Missouri Humane Society for many years, and has served on their Board of Directors.

With a Bachelor's degree in Recreation & Park Administration from the University of Missouri, Faye practiced for over 13 years as a Recreational Therapist at local hospitals and social service agencies. In the late 90's, she answered an ad for a woman wanting a dog sitter on the days she worked long hours. The job was fun for both Faye and the dog. After doing some research on doggie day care facilities around the country, Faye realized Columbia might be big enough for a doggy day care business to thrive. Once she found the perfect piece of land, she opened South Paw Acres in August of 2001. She has been pampering lucky dogs ever since.

Denise McElroy, Canine Massage Therapist

Denise has enjoyed a lifetime of experience with animals, which has led her to want to do more for them. Accredited through Equissage, a leading trainer of equine sports and canine massage therapists based in Virginia, Denise is a firm believer in dog therapy. This therapy is based on Swedish deep-tissue massage.

Just like with people, massage can increase a dog’s circulation, level of flexibility and also work stiffness out of their muscles. Many high activity level dogs such as agility trained dogs benefit from massage therapy. Older dogs with stiff joints can live more comfortably in their senior years with regular massage.

Denise's past experience includes work in grooming salons, veterinary clinics and boarding kennels, and as a pet-sitter in more recent years here in Columbia.

Joe Caputo, Certified Canine Trainer

Joe is a 17-year-veteran canine trainer for the New York City Police Department, who recently moved to central Missouri. If your dog needs some help with his or hers manners, Joe is the man to see. Get some peace of mind with an obedient companion and enjoy the transformation!

For your convenience, Joe offers lessons while your dog is boarding or in day care at South Paw Acres. You also receive one-on-one training from him on how to work with your dog after the lessons.

Read more about Joe and his career at his web site: www.echoingridgefarmboardgroom.com