From Military Service to Serving Your Pets
Hi, I'm Maddie Van Fleet, founder of Paws & Applause LLC. Together with my husband, an Army veteran, we've created a woman and veteran-owned business dedicated to providing exceptional pet care with military precision and compassionate service.
My journey began after losing my beloved dog Raina to cancer. That profound loss, combined with my husband's military background and values, inspired us to create something special - a pet care facility that operates with military precision but civilian compassion.
My husband's Army service brings unique insights to our operations. His military experience ensures we maintain the highest standards of discipline, reliability, and attention to detail. Together, we've channeled these values into building a business that serves our community with excellence. Every pet in our care receives the same level of dedication he gave to our country.
Military Values in Pet Care
Punctuality & Reliability
Military time means on time. Your pet's schedule is our mission priority.
Attention to Detail
From medication schedules to dietary needs, nothing escapes our notice.
Teamwork & Communication
Clear updates and coordinated care - your pet's team works like a unit.
Honor & Integrity
We treat every pet and family with the respect they deserve.
Supporting Military & Veteran Families
We understand the unique needs of military families because we ARE a military family. Whether you're active duty, reserves, or a veteran, we're here to support you.
Special Support for Military Families:
- Deployment Support: Extended boarding with regular video updates for deployed service members
- PCS Assistance: Flexible scheduling for families during permanent change of station
- Emergency Care: Priority booking for military emergencies and training exercises
- Veteran Discounts: Thank you for your service - ask about our veteran family rates
- Understanding: We know military life - last-minute changes are no problem
"As an active-duty Air Force family, finding reliable pet care during deployments was our biggest stress. Maddie's military background means she GETS IT. She's kept our dogs for three deployments now, sending videos that made being away bearable."
- Major Sarah Thompson, USAFGiving Back to Our Community
As a woman veteran-owned business, we believe in service beyond profit:
Veteran Hiring
We actively recruit and train fellow veterans, providing meaningful employment opportunities.
Service Dog Support
Free grooming for verified service dogs supporting veterans with disabilities.
Community Partnership
Partnering with local veteran organizations and military family support groups.
Professional Excellence
Military service taught me that excellence requires continuous training and certification:
- Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Certified
- Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) Verified
- IACP Professional Member
- AKC Evaluator (through Head Trainer David Van Fleet)
- NePoPo® Silver Graduate (through Head Trainer David Van Fleet)
Why Choose a Woman Veteran-Owned Pet Business?
Leadership Experience
Military leadership skills translate to exceptional business management and pet care standards.
Problem-Solving Skills
Veterans adapt and overcome - we handle pet challenges with creative solutions.
Diverse Perspective
As a woman-owned business with veteran leadership, we bring unique insights to pet care and business operations.
Community Values
Supporting veteran-owned businesses strengthens our local economy and honors service.
Experience the Difference Military Values Make
When you choose Paws & Applause, you're not just selecting premium pet care - you're supporting a woman-owned business led by an Army veteran who's dedicated to serving pets and families with honor, integrity, and excellence.