In this episode of the pawdcast, Jean and Karen chat with Valerie Alfinito, a trainer who shifted her focus to creating handcrafted leather leashes and collars.  A true dogtrepreneur – Valerie founded Dog Sports Designs in the 1990s when her clients came to her training classes with bruised, cut and injured hands from their dog’s leashes.

To Valerie, leashes aren’t an accessory – they should be considered equipment and her handmade leather leashes will last your dog’s lifetime.

As Karen, Jean and Valerie discuss, while Valerie’s leashes can be found at Westminster and the World Agility Championships – they are even more appropriate (and important) for all of us pet parents who really want the best for our dogs – and our hands! 

If you’ve watched the Westminster Dog Show, you’ve likely seen the “bejeweled” leashes in the ring – Valerie created the first bejeweled leash and with a client created a lasting dog show tradition.  PawsUP for Valerie!

Karen and Jean’s dogs (and hands) are big fans of Valerie’s leashes.  As are America’s Veterinarian, Dr. Marty Becker; the Obama’s – Bo was an early customer; and countless rescues and champions.

Valerie’s handcrafted dog leashes can be found at www.dogsportsdesigns.com – enter code PawsGo20 for a SPECIAL 20 percent discount on your purchase.