Health & Fitness
Losing Power, Gaining Community
Reflections on what it means to be a part of something larger in the community, in the wake of this weekend's derecho storm.
So far, July is off to a rocky start in the D.C. metro area. As this goes out, many residents still remain without power. Some areas have to boil their water, and still others are seeing long lines at the gas station. All of this is in response to the derecho that swept our area on Friday night.
These sorts of times always manage to bring out the best in people. When Dogtopia of White Flint lost power, team members from multiple stores immediately began jumping into action to move the dogs to the Tysons Corner location. One of the Dogtopia company values is Active Community Service. Lots of businesses have company values, and usually Dogtopia and Community Service brings to mind the K-9 Support Charity Dog Wash. But it also means reaching out and being there for your fellow Dogtopians during times of need. Team members weren't the only ones affected, though. So many pet parents were left in the literal and figurative dark, without information or an update about their dogs. Yet everyone weathered the storm with incredible strength and poise.
For many people, their job is just a place where they go to collect a paycheck. Even people that enjoy their work may be missing out on something more. I love being reminded of how lucky I am to have selfless team members, fun dogs, and understanding clients as members of my Dogtopia family.
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Laura Cruz is the Community Ambassador for the Dogtopia company stores, with 10 years experience in the animal service industry. Dogtopia strives to provide the highest quality dog daycare and boarding in the United States.