Andrea had always known she was a dog person. Growing up on a farm, she was surrounded by animals, but it wasn’t until she met Cindy - a retired police German Shepherd adopted by her uncle, a Toronto Police Sergeant - that everything clicked. Cindy was more than a pet. She was bred for working with the police and not as a family dog. Despite this, Andrea found herself incredibly impressed with the German Shepherd’s intelligence and loyalty. That bond laid the foundation for her endeavours as a breeder.
She found a reputable breeder, took home her first pup, and immersed herself in training, conformation, tracking, and obedience. Before long, what started as a passion became a calling. Alongside her husband,Shawn, she founded Arisingstar German Shepherds, where they focused on breeding strong, balanced dogs, preserving the breed standard.
Over the years, Andrea trained dogs who were selected for police programs, raised grand champions, and even saw one of her dogs featured on CBC’s Still Standing. She has five beautiful German Shepherds at home and a growing legacy.
But dog life isn’t always a smooth journey. Andrea had seen the flip side. She is currently dealing with one of her working-line pups who tore all the ligaments in his hip. Thankfully, she has pet insurance. But that hadn’t always been the case.
Years ago, she had a 3-month-old pup who got into puff mushrooms before she even had the chance to secure an insurance plan. The pup’s breathing worsened rapidly, and even the vets were stumped. The only reference the vet was working with was a single case study involving a golden retriever. The vet suggested deworming didn’t help. X-rays revealed white lungs instead of the healthy black images of clear airways. The emergency vet gently suggested euthanasia.
But Andrea and her husband weren’t ready to give up. She fought for that little pup, racking up tens of thousands in oxygen incubator bills. It took weeks but the pup survived. He lived 11 long, love-filled years. Andrea’s husband affectionately refers to this pup as their “Visa Dog” to this day.
From bites to tooth extractions, close calls with drowning to mouse poison scares, Andrea has seen it all. It’s why she’s so passionate about pet insurance. The Canadian Kennel Club’s 30-day go-home plan is a great start, she says—but not the finish line.
“Saving a little each month isn’t enough,” she often tells new owners. “If something serious happens, your dog needs you—emotionally, physically, and yes, financially. Be ready. Pet insurance is a responsible way to cover your financial responsibilities to your dog.”
