About Paws & Applause

Where Every Pet Gets a Standing Ovation

Our Story

A Journey Born from Love and Loss

Founded with Purpose

Paws & Applause LLC was born from a deeply personal experience. After losing our beloved dog Raina, we realized the profound impact that quality pet care has on both pets and their families. This loss inspired us to create something special – a place where every pet receives the individualized attention, love, and professional care they deserve.

Woman & Veteran-Owned Excellence

As a woman and veteran-owned business, we bring unique perspectives to pet care. Maddie's entrepreneurial vision combined with our family's military background of discipline, dedication, and service excellence shapes everything we do. We understand the importance of trust, reliability, and going above and beyond for those who depend on us.

Why We're Different

Unlike large, impersonal facilities, we maintain a strict 10-dog limit to ensure every pet gets the attention they deserve. Our approach isn't about quantity – it's about quality. Each dog in our care becomes part of our extended family, receiving personalized attention, customized care plans, and genuine affection.

Maddie Van Fleet, founder of Paws & Applause, with happy dogs at our Maryville facility
Maddie with some of our regular furry guests

Meet Our Team

Certified Professionals Dedicated to Your Pet's Well-being

Maddie Van Fleet, CEO and Founder of Paws & Applause LLC in Maryville, TN

Maddie Van Fleet

Founder & CEO

Maddie's passion for animals and entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Paws & Applause after experiencing the loss of her beloved dog Raina. As a woman veteran business owner, she brings leadership, compassion, and a commitment to excellence to every aspect of our operations.

Woman Veteran-Owned Pet Care Specialist Community Leader
David Van Fleet, NePoPo Silver Graduate and Head Trainer at Paws & Applause LLC

David Van Fleet

Head Trainer & NePoPo® Silver Graduate

David is East Tennessee's only NePoPo® Silver Graduate, bringing cutting-edge, science-based training methods to our clients. With years of experience and multiple certifications, he specializes in everything from puppy socialization to advanced behavior modification.

NePoPo® Silver Graduate AKC Evaluator IACP Professional Member

Our Core Values

The Principles That Guide Everything We Do

Compassionate Care

Every pet deserves love, respect, and individualized attention. We treat your pets as if they were our own.

Safety First

From our 10-dog limit to 24/7 supervision and strict health protocols, your pet's safety is our top priority.

Professional Excellence

Continuous education and industry-leading certifications ensure we provide the best care possible.

Trust & Transparency

Open communication, regular updates, and honest relationships with every pet parent we serve.

Our Credentials

Professional Certifications You Can Trust

NePoPo Silver Graduate Certification for professional dog training

NePoPo® Silver Graduate

Advanced training methodology certification

American Kennel Club Evaluator certification

AKC Evaluator

Authorized to conduct official AKC tests

International Association of Canine Professionals member

IACP Professional Member

Committed to ethical training practices

Woman and Veteran Owned Small Business certification

Woman & Veteran-Owned

Certified small business with military values

Serving Our Community

Proud to be Maryville's Trusted Pet Care Provider

Since opening our doors, we've had the privilege of serving hundreds of families throughout Blount County. From Maryville to Alcoa, Louisville to Friendsville, and beyond, we're honored to be trusted with your furry family members.

500+

Happy Dogs Served

9

Comprehensive Services

4.9★

Average Review Rating

24/7

Supervised Care

Ready to Meet Us?

Schedule a tour of our facility and see why Maryville families trust us with their pets