John Truitt shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
John , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Operation All Paws was born out of a simple belief — no one should have to go without pet essential items. We began as a grassroots effort to assist homeless and low-income pet owners with food, supplies, and support. Over time, I realized this work wasn’t just about meeting physical needs — it was about restoring hope and dignity to people and their pets.
Recently, I felt called to deepen our mission by incorporating essential items (food, water, clothing) for the pet owners in our outreach, when donations are available. God put it on our hearts to help other pet people and we just want to do our part. These moments of giving back brings comfort, unity, and peace to everyone we meet.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
John Truitt is the heart behind Operation All Paws (OAP) — a grassroots nonprofit he started in 2016 from his own pocket, driven by compassion for people and pets in need. What began as a small effort to provide pet food and essential supplies to homeless and low-income pet owners has grown into a mission of hope, faith, and community connection.
“My belief is simple yet powerful: no pet parent should ever have to choose between essentials for themselves or their beloved companion. Under his leadership, OAP has become a support system for those who need a helping hand — not just with supplies, but with encouragement, empathy, and understanding”, said John.
Beyond OAP, John co-founded TheDogBFF Barkerie, a small-batch pet treat brand rooted in transparency and love, and serves as the founding member of Fur_Casso, an initiative that celebrates the artistic bond between people and their pets. Last but not least, John founded Magic Hands Dog Grooming to service homeless and low-income pets.
My passion lies in connecting with others — both human and furry — and creating spaces where kindness leads the way. Whether I’m handing out donations, organizing community events, or sharing stories that inspires— I’m dedicated to doing my part.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I’ve always been me — John Truitt. Dogs have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and caring for them has always felt like second nature. I didn’t need the world to tell me who I was meant to be — I just followed what felt right. I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, doing what I love, surrounded by the people and pets that give this mission purpose. The support I’ve received along the way has kept me grounded and grateful, reminding me that staying true to yourself is the greatest gift of all.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
The defining wound of my life was losing my dog, Queen.
I knew she had health challenges, but I never imagined I’d lose her so soon. She was the heart of my life, the rock behind my business, and the reason I kept going. Losing her broke me, but it also reshaped me.
Starting my businesses in her honor — sharing her story and welcoming Iba into my life — has been part of my healing. What began as pain has become purpose. Through every connection I make with people and their pets, I feel her presence guiding me. We didn’t get the lifetime of memories we planned, but her legacy continues to live through everything I create and everyone I help.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
You can’t truly love dogs and hate people. The word dog spelled backward is God—and that’s not a coincidence. Dogs teach us unconditional love, forgiveness, and loyalty—the very traits we’re meant to extend to one another. If more people understood that connection and chose to love both humans and animals with the same grace, the world would be a much happier, kinder place for everyone.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m sharing my passion with others. Giving back to homeless and low-income pet people brings me a deep sense of purpose because every pet and their person deserves the essentials to live with dignity. I also find peace when I’m creating art with my dog — it’s our special time together. Those moments mean everything to me, and I know they’ll become cherished memories that last a lifetime. Both acts — giving back and creating — are my way of leaving a positive mark on the world, one filled with compassion, creativity, and love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.operationallpaws.com
- Instagram: @operationallpaws
- Facebook: Operation All Paws
- Youtube: The Collectibulls
Image Credits
Sam Martin Photography
Jennifer Kopp Photography
John Truitt
Antoineka Norman
