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Compassionate, Affordable and Trusted

"April is an amazing person.  A joy to be around, she has a calm spirit that works well training high energy animals.  She just has that magic touch and my dogs bonded with her immediately.  I trust April to show me the compassionate way to engage my dogs and I saw a difference immediately.  I can't say enough good things about April and Shooting Star Pet Services." -- Michelle W.

"April and her family gave my aged and frail 15-year old dog, Monty, the warmest and kindest care in her home while I was away...  I'm grateful for the gentle care she provided for him and I rested easy knowing he was in such great hands."--Gina K.

About April

I'm passionate about animals, and they've been a central part of my journey from the beginning. Growing up, my involvement in FFA and the experience of completing two SAE projects fueled my desire to pursue a career working with animals. I started as kennel staff at a vet's office, gradually working my way up to a vet tech while studying to become one. Although I found the path challenging due to a tough professor and learning disabilities, I persevered, eventually earning a General Studies Associate Degree and a Web Design Certificate in 2009. 

 

Life took an adventurous turn when I married a Navy officer in January 2010. With each relocation, I rebuilt my business, always adapting to new environments. In 2019, we settled in Minnesota, only to face an unexpected job loss for my husband. Yet, this adversity fueled my entrepreneurial spirit. I initially worked for another company but eventually walked away to launch Shooting Star Services, where I began by pet sitting and training dogs.

 

In January 2024, I took a leap and expanded our services, signing a lease to open a facility offering training, grooming, and supplies. Shortly after, life threw another curveball – the discovery that I needed open-heart surgery. We sprinted to get everything set up, hiring a team and launching by March 1, 2024, just before my surgery on May 1, 2024.

 

While the team has downsized, our mission is unwavering: to provide a haven for dogs, especially those that others overlook, and give them a place to belong. Every step of this journey is driven by my love for animals and my commitment to making a difference in their lives.

April, Quint and Dobby

Experience and Passion Make a Difference

"One of my greatest joys is seeing a client and their companion animal bond through healthy training.  I love the energy and excitement that comes from the "Ah ha!" learning moment.  Maybe it's a dog that everyone else has given up on, all I know is that with love, patience and trust anything is possible!" --April Franz, Owner 

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