Catherine Martell

Catherine M. Martell, M.Ed., has loved dogs since infancy—her earliest guardian was the family’s Irish Setter. She has worn many hats over the years, from junior handler and breeder to behaviorist and professional pet sitter, all while dedicating herself to teaching in the classroom. Her Golden Retriever, Buddy, played a crucial role in her recovery after a devastating accident, inspiring her Tucson business, Buddy’s Retrievers. Catherine once breathed life into a stillborn Maltipoo, Runty Ralph, who now stars in her children’s book series written in Buddy’s honor. She says, “I care for people’s pets the way Buddy cared for me.”