photos by: STEPHANIE WISEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
After traveling a fairly traditional route through the corporate business world, Brian McIntosh found a life plan silver lining after he suffered a stroke in October of 2023. Learning to make the best of the effects that aphasia now has on his daily life, Brian has discovered the courage, commitment and creativity to realize his dream job!
Once his previous career came to a halt in February of 2024, Brian did some soul searching into what he really loves in life. “I knew I loved pets, plants and working with older people,” shares Brian. “So, it turns out this new path is very therapeutic for me!”
He went “live” with his pet sitting service – lovingly named Magical Paws – in April of 2024. As a side, he also offers to water plants for clients while he’s in their homes caring for their fur babies! Most Magical Paws clients are located in Cornelius, Mooresville and Huntersville, and Brian offers frequent walks, pet play dates, overnight stays at his own home or daily visits and one-on-one care in the client’s home. He recently hired an assistant, so he can extend overnight visits at his home or the owner’s home, up to three or four days, if needed.
The truest of pet lovers himself, Brian is the proud owner of two rescue dogs – Albert and Ella – who have offered their stamp of approval on the new business venture!
Knowing that his skill at relating to animals will be a huge factor in the success of his small business, Brian strives to learn as much as possible about prospective clients. The Magical Paws online form allows pet owners to provide basic information and specific pet details, including a microchip status and important questions on their pet’s temperament. While the majority of Magical Paws clients are the canine variety, Brian says approximately 30% are cats, and he is certified in first aid for both dogs and cats through the American Red Cross. He is also bonded and insured.
Secure in the new business venture and happy to provide a much needed service in the Lake Norman area, Brian credits much of his ability to bond with animals so well to his patience and calming voice. In his downtime, he also makes and sells homemade, all-natural dog and cat treats, which you can order online, knowing every morsel is made with much love!
Connecting with others living with the effects of aphasia is another passion for Brian, who is active with two groups – one in Concord, NC, and one based near South Park in Charlotte – who are working to expand the efforts of the Triangle Aphasia Project (TAP) into this area (visit aphasiaproject.org for more information).
“I’m a positive person!” says Brian. “I stay active, I keep pets with me all the time and I love people. I don’t avoid going out in public or groups, as hearing aids have really helped me in loud public places. They help mute the background noise, allowing me to focus on specific words.”
Meeting with others in varying stages of aphasia has been positive, and Brian says he always learns something new. He advises others with those effects to do something new and not be stuck in a routine – and to be honest with people you engage with about your limitations.
“Take notes, write it down or type it,” he says. “Test yourself with something new that’s physically or mentally challenging!”
If you’re a pet owner and looking for the perfect companion for your furry friends when you can’t be home, reach out to Brian at Linkin.bio/magicalpawslkn, and call or text him at 314.568.2453. Follow him on Instagram @magicalpawslkn, and prepare your furry friend to be loved and pampered beyond measure while you’re away!
