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The Fur Squad
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Siblings (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!"

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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The Fur Squad: Maryville, TN 865.805.3010
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