Every morning, Ashley Renton wakes up with the same mission she’s had since she was a little girl: to care for animals. Once Ashley walks into her pet boarding facility, For Paws Unleashed, she is greeted by excited barks and rhythmic thumps of wagging tails. She describes her business as a place where pets have a true cageless experience.
For Paws Unleashed is not your traditional kennel, instead, it’s compared to a hotel or even a spa. Her business offers several services including boarding, daycare, grooming and more. Luckily, Ashley is no stranger to hard work.
Growing up on her parents’ vast cattle farm, Ashley took on a lot of responsibility from a young age. Before going to school, she would head into the dewy pastures to care for the animals. She juggled farm chores, schoolwork, her social life and extracurriculars like cheerleading.
“I’ve learned that there’s a lot of responsibility to it because my parents believe strongly in you get up and go to work,” Ashley said. “You don’t lay in bed; you don’t get to lay around on Saturday and Sunday.” To Ashley, For Paws Unleashed is more than just a business — it’s a way to give back to the Richmond community.
Through partnerships with various animal rescues, her facility has become a refuge for many animals in need. One of the most impactful ways she gives back to the community is by offering temporary housing for pets whose owners are displaced due to challenges such as homelessness, addiction or d.
