Hi!
I'm Melissa, and I'm the voice behind Cano Cockapoos.
I've worked with animals from an early age, and even as a child I knew that animals were my calling. My parents were often frustrated by the pets I'd bring home. My first real job was with a veterinary clinic, and while I was there I did everything from cleaning kennels to assisting during surgery. When I was 18 I was an intern for the Audubon Species Survival Center, where I learned a lot about husbandry and best care practices. I've worked with animals of every species from African small cats to zebras! At the Audubon Zoo I wrestled gators in the Louisiana Swamp exhibit, at least for a while.
I was in my 20s when immune disease hit, and hit hard. When it was bad it was horrible, and even little contact with my beloved shorthair terriers could put me in the hospital. When those wonderful dogs had lived exceptionally long lives and began to leave us, I started to research breeds that were considered hypoallergenic. Cockapoos stood out as a successful small breed that was popular, healthy, and a good fit for my family. That's when we got Charlie.
I quickly learned that many small breeders, and even some of the larger ones, hadn't done the research I'd done. Of the 3 cockapoos I've purchased, two had never before touched grass. One came home with ear mites. One came home with an intestinal protozoa that was contagious to humans. None were well-socialized because their cognitive development had been completely ignored. All were terrified.
I knew I could do better, and Cano Cockapoos was born! It probably sounds cheesy, but I'm committed to putting wonderful, healthy, well-socialized pups into the homes of people who will love them as much as I love them.
The pictures speak for themselves.
Questions? Ask us!