From the day I brought Ludo home as a puppy to his very last breath at 15½, we faced just about every health challenge imaginable. Anyone familiar with boxers knows they’re prone to a range of issues — and Ludo had them all. Chronic digestive problems, allergies, pancreatitis, pneumonia, Lyme disease, multiple cancers including a rare pancreatic one, and even full cruciate ligament tears in his senior years. Despite it all, he fought through every diagnosis with unbelievable strength and spirit.

Coming from a background in health and fitness, I understood that longevity doesn’t happen by accident — it’s built through proactive, supportive care. So I became Ludo’s biggest advocate, researching every condition, pursuing holistic and integrative veterinary options, and combining traditional medicine with therapeutic and nutritional support. Each time a new challenge arose, we found a way through — even his final neurological condition, which he outlived by more than a year beyond expectations.

Being able-bodied, working from home, and having deep experience in nutrition and functional health were huge advantages for me as his caregiver. But not every pet owner has that same background, time, or guidance — and that gap is exactly why I created the Canine Advocacy Network (CAN). No one should have to navigate their pet’s complex health journey alone. CAN exists to help owners access options, resources, and real answers — so they can give their pets the best possible care, no matter what life throws their way.