CONTINUING EDUCATION

  1. BulletSeminar workshops through American Boarding Kennel Association.

  2. BulletSucceeding in Small Business Seminar for Women Business Owners, University of South Florida

  3. BulletCanine Anatomy and Structure in Relationship to Movement

  4. BulletBehavior Problems and Counseling for Dog Owners

  5. BulletCanine Aggression Behavior Seminar


AFFILIATIONS

  1. BulletPet Care Services Association (formally known as American Boarding Kennel Association (ABKA) since 1986-has served as a Regional Board Member for 6 years.


Brandon Chamber of Commerce

Tampa Bay Poodle Club-past president and secretary for 2 years

Bell Shoals Baptist Church-member of the Celebration Choir


Kennel and Grooming experience:

Betsy’s love for all God’s creatures began at a very early age with a Boxer and two large miniature poodles.  Her first job out of high school was with a large show quality kennel in Weston, Connecticut where Betsy cared for large Great Danes and Cairn Terriers.

During summer months between college semesters, Betsy completed a comprehensive course in dog grooming at Stanton School of  Dog Grooming in New York City.  She subsequently was hired to teach the art of dog grooming, handling, and shop management and later did all-breed grooming at a veterinary hospital in Hollywood, Florida.


Veterinary Medical Technician:

As Betsy had previously wanted to become a veterinarian, but obtained her BA Degree in Psychology from Finch College in New York City, with an emphasis in animal psychology and behavioral development.  She successfully taught basic obedience and and Puppy Kindergarten classes for the Dog Training Club of Tampa.

Later, she completed and received her AA Degree in Veterinary Medical Technology from St. Petersburg College in 1982, became certified and went on to work at a busy 6 doctor Veterinary Hospital in Tampa, FL where she was responsible for client relations and education, technician exams, administering vaccinations, all phases of lab work, radiology, pre-surgical preparation, inventory control and ordering and nursing treatment and care.


Business owner of Almost Home Pet Resort:

Betsy has been CEO of Almost Home Pet Resort since 1992 and in 2004 she received the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce Minority and Women-owned Business of the Year Award.  In her own words, her is her response:

“I am so excited that you have honored me with this award!  I wish to thank the Brandon Chamber of Commerce for their support and decision and also the wonderful customers in Hillsborough County that have supported our business and allowed us to care for their pets.

But truly, I could not be here today without the help and dedication of my very special staff.  I started Almost Home Pet Resort as a vision, but a dream cannot be born without the help of others.  I wish to thank my facility administrator, my wonderful  daughter, Jennifer T. for her tremendous help and determination to keep everything running smoothly.  And all my staff members for without them, this would not be a 12 year success story.  With the grace and blessings of God, we will continue to serve this growing community of pet lovers for years to come. Thank you so very much!”( October 8, 2004)

Affiliations


Read more about Betsy’s life and see pictures:


Dog Breeder

Rocky Mountain Horses

Your Pet’s Premier Place For Fun

ABOUT OUR OWNER, BETSY HICKA

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