October marks 35 years of a familiar business in our neighborhood - The Canine Consultants Pet Food and Supplies at 17th and Van Dorn Streets. I buy dog food there for my precious pet, Mollie Mae. I have always been curious about the dogs that trainers choose for their precious pets. So I asked Trevor Bassen, owner of The Canine Consultants,  for an interview.

Nancy: How long have you been a Country Club neighbor, Trevor?

Trevor: I grew up in the neighborhood and have been rockin’ the 68502-zip code for 

most of my life. I love the neighborhood and the neighbors and the clients we serve.

Nancy: Tell us about your precious pets:

Trevor: I have two amazing dogs. Both are poodles.

Babette is my 14-year-old female toy poodle. She was nine and a half months old when I adopted her through Hearts United in Auburn, Nebraska. She is a smart dog with all the right moves. Babette is cute but can be a bit ornery. 

Fizziwigg is a 7-year-old standard poodle. I got him from a breeder in Missouri when he was four months old. He is smart, very loyal and playful.  

Nancy: Do the two get along? 

Trevor: They coexist. Every day is “take your dogs to work day” for us. Both dogs 

participate in all my training classes at The Canine Consultants by serving as peer models and demonstrating commands and techniques. I am deeply indebted to these amazing dogs and their contribution to the success of my business. Our lifestyle is unique and we love it. I can ensure they get lots of play, love and attention every day. 

Nancy: Since you “own the place,” do your dogs get lots of free samples?

Trevor: Yes, they get to sample different brands of food and treats. They prefer Taste of

 the Wild for their food and they love bully sticks and freeze-dried goodies we call “Pow-Pow’s.” 

Nancy: I am very curious - where did your name, Fizziwigg, come from? 

Fizzi:   I’m told there is a magical candy shop in Brighton, England. My family chose that 

for my formal name – probably because I am such a sweet and cuddly pup (wink). Most people call me by my nickname, Fizzi.  

Nancy:  I understand that you and Babette are very involved in running the family 

business. Tell us about your workplace and work schedule. 

Fizzi: Babette and I go to work with Trevor every day. We help with training our clients’

dogs. We show them how to behave in public and get along with other dogs in 

group classes.  Sessions at the store are 30 minutes long and our weekly group 

classes are at Irvingdale Park. I love my job!  It has some really nice perks. I

love collagen treats and Babette likes those jerky discs. 

Nancy: Thank you for your attention today. You are the most well-behaved precious pet I have ever interviewed.   

Fizzi:  You were well-behaved, too.