20 Nov 2016 Life would be boring without fur babies

Story and photos
by Callie Sterling

Erin Rittman has boundless love for her pets.

As the 23-year-old from Conway grew up with dogs, she could not imagine her life without them. Today, she plays the role of mom to four fur babies: a 10 year-old Malchi named Sadie (a Maltese/Chihuahua mix); a 7-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever named Ponca; a 6-month-old Cavapoo (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel/Poodle mix) named Daphne; and a 7-year-old black Labrador Retriever named Bailey that recently passed away.  

“They bring so much happiness to you and your family. They easily become part of your family. They are not just dogs; they become your children. Mine are my pride and joy,” Erin said. “Life would be so boring without my amazing fur babies.”

Erin feels strongly that her pets bring entertainment, joy and comic relief to her life on a daily basis. Each of her pets has a unique personality.

“All four of them have such fun personalities that make them who they are,” she said. “Sadie is the oldest and the smallest, but she is definitely the one in charge. Ponca has such a good demeanor, she is very calm and caring. We always say that Ponca would make an amazing service dog. Bailey was such a sweetheart, and she genuinely loved other dogs. Before passing away she would share her food and treats with others.

“Last but not least is Daphne; I have had her since she was 3 weeks old. She was the runt of her litter and had to be tended to every hour of the day. I nursed her back to health with the help of my co-workers and family; now she is as spunky as ever.”

Erin loves animals so much, she found it only fitting to gain employment at Hartman Animal Hospital. She is approaching her fourth anniversary as a receptionist at the local Conway animal clinic.

“I have always loved every dog that I have ever met,” she said. “So working at a vet clinic seemed so fitting for me.”

While working at the animal hospital, Rittman has gained valuable knowledge that carries over to her role as a pet owner.

“I have learned so much since working at Hartman Animal Hospital,” she said. “It has taught me a lot about owning a dog and just about dogs in general. There is nothing better than going to work every day to see sweet little animals. I also have the most amazing coworkers.”

Erin admits that she is partial to dogs.  

“Dogs are my favorite pets because they are so loyal,” she said. “You mean everything to them, and they love you unconditionally. They can turn any bad day into a good day. I have always loved the quote, ‘They might only be here for a part of our lives, but to them you are their whole life.’”