Soon-to-be Carmichael Honorary Mayor Miranda Viani gets smiling congratulations from Citrus Heights Police Department canine, Butter.

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Miranda Viani’s campaign for Honorary Carmichael Mayor is reaching a tail end.

Because she ran unopposed for the appointment and has met Chamber of Commerce fundraising obligations, the dog trainer will don the mayoral sash and begin her year of civic duties in January. “It’s been hard work, but the journey was worth it,” says Viani. “I’m excited to work more in the community.”

Lack of a rival meant no less work for the 43-year-old. Her fundraisers included raffles, a whisky tasting, an artists’ paint-and-sip night, wine pulls, a self-defense class and several restaurant events. The campaign ended with a bring-your-dog meet-up and a photo opportunity with Santa.

She will split funds between the Chamber and her favorite non-profit: Hearts for Heroes USA. The national organization provides therapy dogs for police and fire stations – also for hospitals, courtrooms and other first-responder agencies.

The cause is close to Viani’s heart. “My business has trained service and therapy dogs for more than 20 years,” she explains. “First responders have stressful jobs. Teams and individuals are enormously helped by companionship of a dog. They have a way of understanding us; they can tell when a person needs them. They instinctively give pressure therapy by leaning against people; by lying on them and allowing petting. These simple actions bring relief. They help with children, and they can be an icebreaker for outreach among the homeless.

“I have two dogs, myself. One helps me to calm down and stay in focus. The other keeps me energized.”

Viani graduated from Elk Grove High School and got a math and science degree at Cosumnes River Community College. “Animals were always a big part in what I did,” she says. “As a volunteer with the National Wildlife Foundation, I helped in rescues and rehabilitation of wild animals. I worked as a veterinary assistant for seven years before I turned toward canine behavior as a career.” Her Citrus Heights-based All Stage Canine Development facility employs 13 staffers, with occasional assistance from Viani’s 11-year-old daughter, Sarah.

“Sarah loves dogs,” says her mom. “She helps in group training classes, and she creates our marketing videos. She’ll definitely take over the business someday.” Among clients are the first-responder pups Miranda helped train for agencies.

“When they come back for a visit, they’re always excited to see us,” she reports. “Even though they’re not supposed to jump up, sometimes they can’t help themselves. They’re such happy, giving creatures.”

Viani entered the mayoralty race to bolster small businesses and to support the community. “I hope my service as mayor will also bring more attention to Hearts for Heroes and for their cause,” she says.

During her mayoral campaign, Miranda Viani (front, center) joins artists for a “paint and sip” fundraiser at the Milagro Centre’s River City Brewery.

Chamber members and the community can certainly expect increased doggie presence with the new mayor on deck. “Dogs are always an asset,” says mayor-elect Viani. “They help us decompress. They also give us some wonderful smiles.”

Learn about Viani’s business at www.allstagecaninedevelopment.com