Greatest American Dog

Biography

Elan, 24
Aspiring Dog Salon Owner

Elan grew up in low-income housing with her single, hard-woking mother. Elan has been working since she was 9 years old. She was a competitive cheerleader for seven years and also competed in dance competitions. She attended college at Portland State University and was a member of Health Occupations Students of America. Over the years, she has won several awards for her knowledge of health skills, including nutrition and nursing (she is a former nurse’s assistant).

Elan is currently an aspiring entrepreneur (she is working on opening a pet care center) and animal rescue volunteer. She helps rehabilitate and encourage good behavior of rescue dogs at the Oregon Humane Society. She has also worked with the neighborhood health clinics. Elan describes herself as competitive, energetic, resilient, stubborn and somewhat the class clown. She and Kenji love to hike, play at the river and spend time at the dog park.

In her spare time, Elan is learning to play a darabuka (a type of drum) and loves arts, crafts and belly dancing. Her motto is “Always remember to smile, have fun and follow your dreams.”

Elan currently lives in Portland, Oregon. She has one additional dog, a Yorkie, Zsa Zsa. Her birth date is April 26, 1984.

KENJI

Kenji sometimes goes by the nickname “Big Mama.” Elan describes her as energetic, friendly, extremely playful and somewhat of a “city girl.” Kenji loves to play with other dogs, but almost always takes on the leader role. Kenji is treated to a weekly trip to the dog wash for proper grooming. She is known to stop traffic and draw crowds.

STATS ON KENJI:
Age: 1-year-old
Breed: purebred Giant Schnauzer
Weight: 71 pounds
Color markings: Jet Black
Favorite toy: cuz ball and everlasting treat ball
Favorite food: chicken and rice
Best tricks: sit, down, roll over, Hi-Five