Doggy Shangri‑La

My Story

Dogs have been my companions for as long as I can remember—starting with a German Shepherd who never left my side as a kid. Sixteen years ago, we adopted another Shepherd from a rescue, and that’s when things really took off. One foster turned into two… then three… and before long, our house was a revolving door of wagging tails and muddy paws. In one whirlwind year, we cared for nearly forty dogs—each one teaching me something new about patience, resilience, and unconditional love (with a healthy dose of fur on the furniture). That experience helped me discover my true calling: understanding what dogs are trying to tell us—sometimes with a look, sometimes with a sigh, and sometimes by stealing your favorite sock. Out of that came Doggy Shangri-La, a place built on trust, laughter, and a deep respect for the bond between dogs and their humans.

My Training Philosophy

Every dog—and every person—learns differently. That’s why my approach is personal, intuitive, and always kind. Training isn’t about control; it’s about communication. It’s about giving dogs (and their people) the confidence to understand each other. I mix structure with a good dose of humor and heart—because a relaxed tail and a smile go a long way in learning. My mission is simple: to help dogs and their families live together with more ease, connection, and joy. Around here, we celebrate progress, not perfection—and we always make time for belly rubs.