Go Team Therapy Dogs
goteamdogs.org

This year, I got to see Go Team Therapy Dogs in action. Specially trained pups roamed the Colorado Springs Police Department’s 911 call center, stopping to see first responders who could use some “squishy love,” as I heard one say. The police department is just one regular stop for the fluffy lovers, with other stops being schools, assisted living centers, airports, clinics and sites of tragedy. Since the 2012 Waldo Canyon fire, the Go Team nonprofit has grown nationwide, spreading that “squishy” power of dogs. — Seth Boster

Gather Mountain Blooms
gathermountainblooms.com

Once upon a time, three sisters started a flower farm. After suffering a concussion, Nikki McComsey found pleasure and healing in the fresh flowers her husband brought home every week. That led to the idea of recruiting her two sisters, Abby and Leah Remacle, and turning the land around historic Venetucci Farm into fields of flowers called Gather Mountain Blooms. There is an array of seasonal events throughout the year, including Brunch & Blooms, Mother’s Day Garden Party and Oktoberfest. — Jennifer Mulson

The Furologist
thefurologistpetgrooming.com

Founded by Samantha Hanchett, The Furologist offers grooming services for dogs, cats and rabbits as well as additional treatments such as mud baths, nose revitalizers and Dead Sea Mineral Skin Soaks. What really stands out about the business, though, is its love for animals. We recently had to put down our golden retriever of 12 years. During her final grooming appointment, Sam noticed Bailey didn’t have much time left and posted a touching tribute to The Furologist’s Facebook page. We are forever grateful. — Hugh Johnson

Sunday Barber Co.
sundaybarberco.com

If you’re looking for a fresh cut delivered in a clean and relaxing atmosphere, Sunday Barber Co. is the place to find it. Welcoming to all and with a team of skilled stylists — each with their own specialty — the barbers and cosmetologists who call this spot home are sure to deliver. Find two locations in Colorado Springs — one on Briargate Boulevard and one on Tejon Street. If you end up at the downtown spot, don’t forget to grab a pint at Urban Animal Beer Co. next door after your trim. — Spencer McKee

Bijou Animal Hospital
bijouanimalhospital.com

Saying goodbye to a furry family member is never easy, but Bijou Animal Hospital handles the process with such care and compassion that it helps ease the pain. At the end of last summer, I had to make the tough decision to help my sweet girl, Twix, cross the rainbow bridge, and I’m grateful the staff members at Bijou Animal Hospital were with me every step of the way. They always provided her with the utmost care, and I take comfort knowing she was in good hands in her last moments. — Ajia Cuevas

Design Rangers
designrangers.com

Chris and Jenny Schell bring 40-plus years of combined creative, branding and marketing experience to their studio. Known for purposeful, human-centered design, they’ve shaped standout work that elevates the look, feel and storytelling of Colorado Springs. Their website describes them as “sincere but not sappy,” a small but telling glimpse into the authenticity they infuse into everything they create. And, honestly, this city simply wouldn’t look the same without their work tucked into every corner. — Kelly Spieker