In Maryville, Tennessee, a unique pet care business combines military precision with compassionate care to create an exceptional experience for pets and their families. Paws & Applause LLC isn't just another dog boarding facility – it's a woman and veteran-owned business that brings military values and discipline to pet care.

Founder Maddie Van Fleet brings professional expertise and personal passion to every interaction
Military Values Transform Pet Care
When you entrust your pet to a veteran-owned business, you're getting more than just pet care – you're getting a commitment to excellence forged through military service. Here's how military values translate to superior pet care:
Integrity Above All
Military service instills an unwavering commitment to integrity. At Paws & Applause, this means:
- Transparent Communication: Daily updates and honest assessments of your pet's progress
- Ethical Practices: No shortcuts, no compromises on safety or quality
- Accountability: Taking full responsibility for every pet in our care
- Trust: Building relationships based on reliability and consistency
Discipline and Structure
Military training creates habits that benefit pets:
- Consistent Schedules: Pets thrive on routine, just like military operations
- Attention to Detail: Nothing escapes notice – from slight behavior changes to health concerns
- Standard Operating Procedures: Every task follows proven protocols for safety and effectiveness
- Mission Planning: Each training program is strategically planned for success
The Female Veteran Advantage
Female veterans bring unique strengths to pet care that set them apart:
Emotional Intelligence
Women in the military develop exceptional skills in:
- Reading Non-Verbal Cues: Essential for understanding pet behavior and needs
- De-escalation Techniques: Calming anxious or aggressive animals
- Multi-tasking: Managing multiple pets with different needs simultaneously
- Nurturing Leadership: Firm guidance with compassionate understanding
Breaking Barriers
Female veterans have proven themselves in male-dominated fields, bringing:
- Determination: Overcoming challenges is second nature
- Innovation: Finding creative solutions to complex problems
- Resilience: Handling difficult situations with grace and strength
- Leadership: Commanding respect through competence and character
Where Structure Meets Compassion
The magic happens when military discipline combines with female intuition:
Structured Freedom
Unlike rigid kennels or chaotic daycare centers, veteran-owned facilities offer:
- Organized Play: Structured activities that provide mental and physical stimulation
- Controlled Socialization: Carefully managed interactions for safety and fun
- Flexible Discipline: Rules that adapt to individual pet needs
- Balanced Environment: Structure without stress, freedom within boundaries
Professional Excellence
Military standards elevate pet care to new levels:
- Continuous Training: Always learning, always improving techniques
- Equipment Maintenance: Facilities kept to military cleanliness standards
- Emergency Preparedness: Ready for any situation with action plans
- Team Coordination: Staff work together like a well-oiled unit
Community Impact and Support
Choosing a woman veteran-owned business creates ripple effects throughout the community:
Supporting Veterans
- Economic Impact: Your business directly supports veteran entrepreneurship
- Employment Opportunities: Often hiring other veterans and military spouses
- Community Leadership: Veterans actively contribute to local initiatives
- Role Models: Inspiring other women and veterans to pursue their dreams
Giving Back
Veteran-owned businesses often:
- Support military and veteran charities
- Offer discounts to active duty and veteran families
- Participate in community service projects
- Mentor other veteran entrepreneurs
Why Choose a Veteran-Owned Pet Business?
Proven Track Record
Veterans bring real-world experience that translates to pet care:
- Crisis Management: Calm under pressure when emergencies arise
- Global Perspective: Exposure to diverse training methods and cultures
- Leadership Experience: Managing teams and complex operations
- Results-Oriented: Mission accomplishment is non-negotiable
Values You Can Trust
Military service instills values that benefit your pets:
- Honor: Doing the right thing even when no one's watching
- Courage: Facing difficult situations head-on
- Commitment: Seeing every task through to completion
- Service: Putting others' needs before personal comfort
Our Story: Paws & Applause LLC
At Paws & Applause, founder Maddie Van Fleet combines her military background with a lifelong passion for animals. After losing her beloved dog Raina to cancer, she channeled her grief into purpose, creating a pet care facility that honors Raina's memory through exceptional service.
Military Precision, Personal Touch
What sets Paws & Applause apart:
- Limited Capacity: Military-style small unit operations for personalized attention
- NePoPo® Certification: Advanced training methods used by military and police K9 units
- 24/7 Dedication: Military readiness means always being available for your pets
- Mission Focus: Every pet's well-being is a mission to accomplish
The Veteran Difference
When you choose Paws & Applause, you're choosing:
- Reliability you can count on
- Standards that never slip
- Communication that's clear and honest
- Results that exceed expectations
Experience the Veteran Difference
Ready to see how military values transform pet care? Contact Paws & Applause today and discover why Maryville families trust this woman veteran-owned business with their beloved pets.