06/15/2026
A Farewell From Jim & Darcy
Tomorrow, Mid-Michigan K9 Academy begins a new chapter as Veterinary United takes the reins.
As I sit here reflecting on this journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude.
To our clients: thank you. Thank you for trusting us with your dogs, your families, and often some of the most challenging situations in your lives. Thank you for the countless kind words, referrals, reviews, hugs, handshakes, and friendships over the years. Last week’s outpouring of support meant more to us than we can adequately express.
To every employee who has been part of MMK9A over the years: thank you for helping build something special. Whether you worked here for a few months or many years, I hope you carry something valuable from your time here—skills, experiences, friendships, confidence, and lessons that help you wherever life takes you next.
To the team that remains: I hope MMK9A provided a foundation for learning, growth, and opportunity. You have the chance to continue pushing the boundaries of what great dog training can be, and I am excited to see where your careers lead.
To the thousands of dogs who came through our doors: you changed us as much as we changed you. Every success story, every challenge overcome, every fearful dog who found confidence, every family reunited with a dog they thought they had lost—it all mattered.
Veterinary United is bringing tremendous resources, veterinary expertise, wellness programs, and a scientific, holistic approach to canine health and care. We sincerely wish them success and look forward to seeing how they help MMK9A continue to grow and evolve.
On a personal note, many years ago, when I walked out of prison, I never could have imagined this life. I never could have imagined being given the opportunity to help so many people and so many dogs. Building MMK9A, creating the Behavioral Blueprint, and watching the rise of what we affectionately called the Redemption Crew has been one of the greatest blessings of my life.
To Craig Goslin, Henry the Hockey Dog, and our Saginaw Spirit Family who believed in me when they had every reason not to—thank you! Your example has inspired me and your support helped make this dream possible. We look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership.
What began as a second chance became a mission. What became a mission became a family.
We are deeply grateful for the journey, proud of what was built, and excited for what comes next.
From the bottom of our hearts:
Thank you for believing in us.
With love and gratitude,
Jim & Darcy Blau
Mid-Michigan K9 Academy
The Redemption Crew 🐾❤️🤘
