
About usSiblings (and best friends) Ali and George began the new
millenium with the firm resolve to do something completely different with their
lives. In 2000 they both decided to leave the stress of the business arena and the
rush-rush mentality of the Northeast far behind and head to Maryville, TN!
Soon after settling into their respective
homes, both Ali and George found themselves securing work in veterinary offices.
Ultimately, Ali and George became involved in animal rescue. They were part of the
original founders and on the board of directors of "Almost Home Animal Rescue",
located in Maryville.
Raised on a farm just outside of
Princeton, NJ, both grew up with a deep love and respect for animals. In addition to farm
animals, the family always had pets: cats, dogs, birds, and various hamsters, gerbils, and
guinea pigs.
It was through Ali and George's work at
various veterinary offices that led to the inception of The Fur Squad in 2004. They saw
the need to provide pet owners another option besides boarding. For the most part, they
felt that boarding at even the best veterinary offices with the best facilities, does not
compare with allowing a pet to stay home in familiar surroundings and with more attention
than a typical veterinary staff can supply. In their five and a half years with The Fur
Squad, Ali and George have seen more than their fair share of grateful pooches and kitties
who, according to their owners, were thrilled to be able to stay home!
Ali and George love what they do! They
feel a tremendous sense of satisfaction knowing the peace of mind they bring to pet owners
while they are away. Ali remarked "No human will ever be so happy to see you or give
you as enthusiastic a greeting as a lonely cat or dog!" |
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Alison
"Ali" Gallup, Owner/Co-Founder
Ali loves visiting with and caring for her four-legged clients. She makes a particular
effort to get to know their individual personalities and idiosyncrasies. Also an artist
and photographer, Ali enjoys photographing her clients, satisfied only when she is able to
capture their true "essence". Ali lives with cat Fergus and her constant
sidekick, her dog Barley.
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George
Gallup, Owner/Co-Founder.
A lifetime animal lover, George has the gentle, kind manner ideal for working with
animals. George truly goes the extra mile with his clients, worrying not only about their
basic needs but their feelings! George has experience working with two local veterinary
offices: Maryville Animal Hospital and Fairview Animal Hospital. He lives with four dogs
and three cats. |
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Cindy
Wagner, Squad Member.
Cindy brings to the squad experience working as a vet-tech at two Maryville veterinary
offices: Mountain Highway Animal Hospital and, currently, Animal Health Center. Cindy has
an infectious laugh, an incredible work ethic and is a valued friend and co-worker. She is
an invaluable member of the Fur Squad. |
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Renee
Pritts, Squad Member
Experienced Vet-Tech Renee has worked with a number of area veterinary offices
including: Maryville
Animal Hospital, Village Veterinary Hospital and Knoxville Animal Clinic. She has a great touch with pets and is not intimidated by difficult
or challenging situations.
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Barley
Gallup, CEO.
Barley was rescued in 2003 from The Maryville Animal Shelter the day before his "due
date" and was, ultimately, adopted by Ali. Barley just might be the nicest hound dog
anyone will meet. He loves riding in the car and can be seen all over town accompanying
Ali on Fur Squad visits. Barley's best friend is Scooby. |
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Sheriff
Gallup, President, Feline Legal Affairs
Senior cat Sheriff, is an integral part of The Fur Squad. With his even temper
and high ethical standard, he keeps the kitties in line! Sheriff, a native to
Maryville, wandered onto George's property in 2001 and has lived with him ever since.
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Scooby
Gallup, Senior Corporate Athletic Director
Scooby is quite the athlete for a middle-aged pup! Scooby was abandoned at Maryville
Animal Hospital in 2003 after being hit by a car. He had to have an FHO (Femoral Head
Ostectomy) but you'd never know it to see him run! His favorite sport is the tennis ball
run and catch! He keeps all the pooches in great shape. Scooby lives with George. |
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Fergus
Gallup, Feline Sensitivity Counselor
Fergus was a six-month-old stray living at Green Acres Flea Market in Louisville, TN
when he was adopted by Ali in 2004. Soft-mannered Fergus has the good looks that make
feline heads turn yet he is remarkably grounded and humble!. |
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Jack
Hedberg Gallup, Senior Vice President Collar and Leash Development
Days after being discovered abandoned on a cliff in Happy Valley in 2004, Jack was
adopted by George. In spite of a rough beginning in life, Jack is a truly happy, friendly
dog! Jack owes his middle-name to his rescuers, Bill and Sondra Hedberg. |
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Nick Gallup,
Mediator, Canine-Feline Relations
Found in a parking lot near Fairview Animal Hospital in 2006, Nick is a gentle, sweet soul
and all-around good guy. After being adopted by George, Nick blended in beautifully as the
little brother of the pack. He learned to catch tennis balls from Scooby. |
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