Helen M.
Old West Austin, TX
Professional Dog Trainer, From Home
Pet care experience
Hi! I've been a professional pet handler for almost ten years. I was the owner of HeelBklyn Pet Service in Brooklyn, NY. Now I own Freedog Austin here in Austin. I believe in seeing dogs as they are, treating them as cherished friends but respecting their own identity as dogs. I work to give dogs enough structure to help them feel safe and confident, while encouraging a sense of adventure and joy in the moment. I, also, pride myself on robust, nuanced, and vivid communication with pet owners/parents so they can feel connected to their dog's experience, even from a distance. I am certified in Pet CPR and First Aid. In the walking/boarding arena, I provide in-home pet sitting, dog boarding, and group and solo walks. I also am developing a Walk & Train program to help owners increase their connection with their dogs while on leash. I can work on general doggie manners and overall behavior modification too. My back-pocket passion is pet photography. I make a point of providing owners with great photos along with their texted daily reports, and I can even send the occasional video. FYI, I do require that all dogs in my care be up to date on their shots. Sexually mature dogs must be spayed or neutered. A meet and greet is always required before boarding, to make sure everyone is a right fit.
Reviews
Helen M is fantastic! Not only is she an incredibly intuitive and talented dog trainer, but her compassion for the four legged ones is evident in her joyful spirit and enthusiasm. We are thrilled when our pup gets to spend time with Helen and she always comes back happy and fulfilled!
Helen is phenomenal!! I was never worried about my sweet boy while away because I knew Helen was taking such great care of him! My family and I took a trip to Europe for three weeks, I was excited for the trip, but also very nervous to leave my puppy dog, Opie. When we took the trip Opie was barley a year old, and I had never left him for more than a few days. After meeting Helen, I felt very comfortable leaving Opie with her. Even with the time difference Helen was always so great to take and send me lot of pictures and update me on what they were doing/ how things were going. She walked him everyday multiple times a day, they took "field trips" to the park and Shakespeare theater, Opie even had the chance to meet a lot of new four-legged friends! Anytime you leave your fur-baby it is hard, you're going to miss them no matter who they stay with, sure there were times when I missed him, but at no point did I think he was sitting around crying over me. I could easily tell from the pictures and videos that he was off on his own vacation, like a kid at summer camp, having fun and no thought of mom or dad. Helen is experienced, accommodating, warm, and relational with both humans and dogs! You and your fur-baby will not be disappointed with her!
Helen is fantastic. My dogs can be quite finicky and definitely have their behavioral quirks; they're truly their happiest and best selves when staying with Helen. They come home exhausted and content, they definitely get a holiday when my husband and I are out of town. Highly recommended.
Helen is a miracle worker! I was worried about leaving my foster dog with her, but she had him calm and happy and well behaved the entire stay. She sent me great pictures and updates every day, so that I could enjoy my trip without worrying about him. He’s looking forward to seeing her again!
About Helen M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Helen M. would like to know about your pet
I don't have any breed preference. I'd like to know before service if the dog has allergies, behavior concerns, mostly that he or she is up to date on shots and reproductive care. As to the fine points, I think every dog requires a conversation prior to service. That's not just for me, but for the owner. I just like for everyone to feel good about the fit. I don't mind if there are some behavior issues. I've had those before, but I do think even in the most ideal circumstances, you want to make sure everyone feels good about the match.
A typical day
Walk routes depend on where the pup is coming from. Social walks are usually center around Shoal Creek, Laguna Gloria, Ramsey Park, Pease Park, Duncan Park, and Republic Park and the neighborhoods of Clarksville and Rosedale. It really depends on who's walking that day.
Services
Helen can host
Helen can watch in your home
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About Helen M.
Communication
Skills
Home
Information Helen M. would like to know about your pet
I don't have any breed preference. I'd like to know before service if the dog has allergies, behavior concerns, mostly that he or she is up to date on shots and reproductive care. As to the fine points, I think every dog requires a conversation prior to service. That's not just for me, but for the owner. I just like for everyone to feel good about the fit. I don't mind if there are some behavior issues. I've had those before, but I do think even in the most ideal circumstances, you want to make sure everyone feels good about the match.
A typical day
Walk routes depend on where the pup is coming from. Social walks are usually center around Shoal Creek, Laguna Gloria, Ramsey Park, Pease Park, Duncan Park, and Republic Park and the neighborhoods of Clarksville and Rosedale. It really depends on who's walking that day.
Location
Austin, TX
Pets
Helen M.
Old West Austin, TX