Honoring the Love Between People and Pets

How SavATree is supporting Heart of the Valley's mission to celebrate the human-animal bond.

When Bozeman, Montana, residents Chip Petrie and Pat McKernan visit their favorite trees in Heart to Heart Park, they're greeted not only by the quiet rustle of aspens and the steady sound of a nearby brook, but by the faces of their five cherished pets. Their dogs—Shannon, Tawny, Star, Daisy, and Zoe—are immortalized on a plaque and a stone beneath the aspen trees that the couple sponsored in their honor seven years ago.

"We liked the idea of a living memorial for our beloved pets," says Pat. "It allows us to remember the love we have for the dogs we've shared our lives with."

The partnership between Heart of the Valley and SavATree reflects the intersection of shared values. As Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter strengthens the bond between people and pets, SavATree strengthens the connection between people and trees. For several years, SavATree’s Bozeman branch has worked closely with the shelter to help maintain the health and vitality of the landscape in the park. The branch’s expert crews have helped preserve trees and also removed those that were no longer safe and healthy. In this peaceful setting, families spend time with prospective adoptees and honor lost companions by sponsoring trees, benches, gazebos, and plaques.

"The park represents something deeply personal to our organization and community," says Marla Caulk, Executive Director at Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter. "We are invested in ensuring these memorials continue to provide a living legacy that represents the bond between people and their beloved pets."

Most recently, SavATree helped the shelter address signs of decline in Pat and Chip's sponsored aspen trees by implementing a customized care plan that included ArborKelp® treatments and structural pruning to combat an insect infestation.

"Treating trees that hold such deep meaning for families is one of the most rewarding parts of my job," says Laura Cameron, SavATree arborist for Heart to Heart Park. "Sometimes a tree honors both a cherished pet and the person who loved them. Knowing we're helping preserve those memories makes the work feel that much more important."

"We visit the tree a couple of times a year," Pat says. "It's a peaceful place to remember the joy and companionship we shared, and to know that those memories will keep growing right here."

For more information about Heart of the Valley's services, visit heartofthevalleyshelter.org.