About me
Hey, I’m Rocky! My wife, Sarah, and I live in Austintown, Ohio, with our three kitties — Pippa, Titus, and Quinn.
Animals have always been a big part of my life, and I've had the joy of caring for both cats and dogs over the years. My passion for walking began in 2019 following a serious health diagnosis that changed everything for me. For a long time, I struggled with unexplained exhaustion, shortness of breath, chest pain, and weight issues. One day, I hit a breaking point and ended up in the hospital. What followed was a month-long journey between St. Elizabeth’s and the Cleveland Clinic, where I underwent countless tests and saw various specialists until they finally discovered that I had pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
When I received my diagnosis, through no doing of my own, I was filled with optimism and hope. In the toughest moments, I realized I couldn’t fix everything on my own. I had long known my need for a Savior and the importance of a relationship with Christ, but it was during those dark times — when I was told I had only months to live, would need a heart/lung transplant, and would be on oxygen for life — that my relationship with the Lord finally took hold. Jesus Christ became my foundation, carrying me through each day and giving me hope far beyond my circumstances.
By God's grace, my story didn’t end there. Not only was I saved spiritually, but I began to recover physically as well. Through a new nutrition plan and the love I developed for walking, I lost over 120 pounds and no longer rely on oxygen, despite the doctors saying it wouldn’t be possible. Today, I’m healthier than I’ve been in years, and the progression of my disease has slowed.
Now, I’m excited to bring two of my biggest passions — animals and exercise/nutrition — together in Shep & Sheep. I look forward to being a blessing to you and your family by providing the same love and care I give to my own pets.
What Makes Shep & Sheep Different?
At Shep & Sheep, I offer premium, personalized pet care because I genuinely love animals and understand how important they are to your family. What sets me apart is the level of dedication I bring—whether it’s day or night, rain or shine, I’m there for your pet, giving them the same care and attention I would give my own. I treat each animal as if they were part of my family, ensuring they feel safe, loved, and well cared for while you're away. With Shep & Sheep, you can rest easy knowing your pet is in the best hands.
Why the name shep &Sheep?
Shep & Sheep stems from my favorite parable in the Bible. It is mentioned twice, once in the Book of Matthew and once in the Book of Luke. It shares a powerful message about God's love and care for every individual, especially those who are "lost" or have strayed from the path of righteousness.
The parable illustrates God's deep, personal concern for every individual, no matter how far they’ve wandered. He seeks the lost with compassion, not condemnation, and rejoices when even one soul returns to Him. Every person is precious to God, and His grace is always available to restore and redeem.
As an animal lover, the Shep & Sheep name carries with it another meaning as well. Those in my care will be treated as family. They will be loved, protected, and cared for every moment they are with me. Like a shepherd to his flock, I will guide, nurture, and watch over every animal with unwavering dedication.
"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?
And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, `Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'
I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.”
Luke 15:4-7