When Maressa was four years old we got a puppy and named her Sugar. Being the youngest of three girls, Maressa referred to Sugar as her “little sister.” Maressa would accompany me when we went to dog training classes. She would practice those skills at home with Sugar. Maressa learned that with love and positive reinforcement you could teach Sugar so much. She was an awesome dog. Maressa did everything that a pet owner should do; feed, walk, play, bathe, love. That bond lasted for nearly 17 years. While in high school Maressa also took her love for animals and volunteered with Personal Ponies; an organization who brings miniature ponies to special needs and elderly people, for events. She also volunteered at the Wildlife Care Center.