Curley starts Paws for a Moment

Val Curley and her business Paws for a Moment provide a house and pet sitting service for residents here in Thermopolis. Curley started her business about four or five months ago. For dog walking, at this time, Curley charges $20 for half an hour. However, rates can be discussed. 

Curley could be described as a “pet whisperer” as she has a heart that connects with an animal. She doesn’t see them just as property, but as animals of value and worth.

Curley described that she can quickly bond with the animal and this affects how they interact. This approach helps keep the peace and leads the animal to behave. Curley said, “I can teach the dog enough so that I don’t get in trouble on a walk.”

Curley was born and raised in Connecticut. She later lived in north-central Florida for 35 years. She did some house sitting and pet sitting there, but also trained horses. Curley had her own horses on her little farm. Curley has always loved animals since she was young and owned cats, but she wanted a horse.

Curley added, “I got into horses and got into dogs, different dogs. Then I got into whippets.” She said, “A whippet is a sighthound, just like a greyhound, but medium size instead of the large size.”

When Curley moved to Wyoming, she said she experienced some culture shock. Curley explained, “When I talk about a trained horse, I talk about: a horse. But it could be just the way to the reins. And I’ve got that horse doing exactly what I want just with my body, and it’s totally listening and everything. And out here, somebody said, Oh, you know, try this horse out. All it wants to do is run away.”

Curley added, “I don’t like ‘cowboying’ animals. I like to get a communication going and understanding that we’re partners. I may ask to be the chairman of the board, but we’re basically partners, and I want your feedback. So I can understand what you need, you know? It’s a back and forth.” Curley said she doesn’t want to treat animals “like a piece of furniture.” 

For more information, contact Curley at 921-0752.