EpicDog

03/01/2025

Grief is a shadow that dances in the corners of the day,
slipping in through the quiet moments,
when the air feels too still,
when the weight of what was lost presses against your chest.
It sneaks up, soft as a whisper,
but its touch is thunderous—
a sudden rush, a wave crashing,
pulling you under, gasping for air.

In those moments, you are everything all at once—
raw, fractured, drowning in the swell of emotion.
And yet, as quickly as it comes,
it ebbs, retreating into the sea of your heart,
leaving room for a smile, a laugh,
a fleeting glimpse of light breaking through the storm.

But the laughter feels fragile,
tinged with guilt, as though happiness
is an act of betrayal against the pain
that still clings to the edges of your being.
How strange it is to feel joy
while sorrow watches from the shoreline,
always waiting, always near.

Grief is a tide that knows no rhythm,
its waves unrelenting and unpredictable.
Some arrive as a gentle lapping at your feet,
a bittersweet memory that brushes your soul.
Others rise like tsunamis,
unstoppable, consuming,
dragging you into the depths of despair.

And so, you find yourself caught in its cycle,
a prisoner of the push and pull.
But even as you are pulled under,
there is a quiet truth in its rhythm:
Grief is the measure of your love,
its waves shaped by the depth of your connection.
Though it may knock you down,
you learn, slowly, to breathe through the storm,
to ride the waves, and to trust
that even in its fiercest surges,
the tide will always recede.

03/01/2025

Winnie & Calvin have stopped in for a few nights stay, while their parents are off to tie the knot! 💍 🤩

02/01/2025

EpicDog Adventure Days – 2025!

Kick off the new year with EpicDog Adventure Days, the ultimate experience to enrich your dog’s life!

Our tailored adventures include:
🐾 Exciting outdoor activities on a private 60-acre property
🐾 Training sessions designed for skill-building and fun
🐾 Socialisation with suitable dogs
🐾 Scent detection games
🐾 Playtime favourites like fetch and tug

📍 Pick-Up & Drop-Off Locations:
Birdwood, Williamstown, Angaston

📆 Schedule:

• Birdwood & Williamstown: Mondays & Tuesdays (8:00 AM - 5:30 PM)
• Angaston: Thursdays (8:00 AM - 5:30 PM)

💬 Weekly and fortnightly options available!

🎥 Stay connected with photo and video updates of your dog’s adventures.

🌟 Perfect for owners dedicated to training, enrichment, and happy, healthy dogs!

🚨 Limited spots available – only 4 participants per day!

📧 Reserve your spot today!
Email: [email protected]

01/01/2025

Yesterday, we guided Millie as she crossed the threshold from this life to the next, a sacred journey that felt as much a release as it did a reunion with the universe. We did it at home, surrounded by her family, in the warmth and safety of the place she loved most. Her passing was a reflection of her life—peaceful, filled with love, and profoundly beautiful.

Helping her transition was both the hardest and most profound act of love I have ever known—a moment where our souls intertwined one final time, and I could feel her spirit beginning to soar.

There is something deeply spiritual about being present in a dog’s final moments, about holding them as they let go of their earthly body and return to the boundless energy of creation. In Millie’s eyes, I saw no fear, only trust—trust in me, in the life we shared, and in the unseen forces calling her home. She had visited me in a dream the night before, to tell me it was her time. She was ready and unafraid.

As her breath grew softer, it was as though the world stood still. I felt her spirit lift, unshackled by pain or illness, and I imagined her running free, her joy unbounded, in a place where time and space no longer matter. In that moment, I understood that death is not an end but a transformation—a shedding of form so the soul can shine even brighter.

We lit a candle beside her as she lay on the bed, its gentle flame a symbol of the light she brought into all of our lives. We shared stories about her, laughing through our tears, remembering her quirks, her adventures, and the joy she gave us so freely. Even in her final hours, she found the strength to greet each family member who came to say goodbye, wagging her tail and reminding us of the indomitable spirit she carried to the very end.

Millie taught me so much about life, love, and connection, and in her passing, she reminded me that the bond we share doesn’t disappear. It changes shape, expands, and becomes something eternal. I feel her presence in the quiet moments on the couch, in the spaces we shared, in the warmth of the sun, and in the memories that flood my heart.

To help a dog pass is to give them the gift of peace, to honour the love they gave so freely, and to trust that they are being guided by something far greater than we can imagine. I know Millie is still with me, now as a light, a whisper, a gentle nudge from the cosmos. She has not left me; she has simply moved beyond the physical realm, and one day, when the time is right, I know we will find each other again.

Until then, I carry her in my heart, grateful for every moment we shared and for the sacred privilege of walking her to the edge of this life, knowing she would never walk alone.

31/12/2024

Millie 🐾
12.04.14 - 31.12.24 🌈
Guiding me from the cosmos, until we meet again ✨
We miss you already 💔

30/12/2024

Special little overnighter up the river with the gang and a first for Ralph.

You know you’re surrounded by dog people when there’s more dogs than people!

24/12/2024

𝗘𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗗𝗼𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀: 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄.

As we look back on 2024, our hearts are full. This year has been one of growth, learning, and profound connection—not just with the dogs and families we’ve worked with, but with our mission to make a real difference. Here’s a reflection on what has been a truly remarkable year.

𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀

This year saw us taking big steps forward. We officially registered for GST—a milestone that represents the growth of EpicDog and the trust our clients place in us.

We also welcomed two new furry family members, Penny and Ralph, to our pack. These beautiful souls have brought so much joy to our days, reminding us of why we do what we do: because dogs truly make life better.

𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵

We launched multiple group classes, bringing together dogs and their owners to learn, connect, and grow. These sessions have been filled with moments of discovery and celebration, as we watched bonds deepen and tails wag.

Collaborating with other talented trainers has been another highlight. Together, we facilitated workshops that not only shared knowledge but fostered a sense of community among dog lovers.

Our EpicDog Adventure Days returned in full swing, providing dogs with enriching outdoor experiences—running free, exploring scents, playing fetch, and just being dogs. These adventures have been as fulfilling for us as they are for the dogs we care for.

𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to changing lives. This year, we rescued, rehabilitated, and rehomed 7 dogs. Each of these dogs came to us with their own story, and seeing them thrive in their forever homes has been one of our greatest joys.

𝗔 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵

We travelled interstate to attend seminars, continuing our commitment to learning and growth. Staying on top of the latest in canine behaviour and training ensures we can give every dog and owner the best support possible.

We also hosted workshops that brought people together to explore the incredible potential of dogs. Watching owners learn, connect, and achieve their goals has been an absolute privilege.

𝗪𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗮 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗿𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿!

As the festive season approaches, we want to wish everyone a safe and merry Christmas. Take this time to enjoy the results of all the hard work you’ve done throughout the year so that your dog, too, can be involved in the festivities.

Thank you for trusting us to be part of your journey. We’re excited to continue working with you in 2025. Have a safe and happy New Year!

With gratitude and love,
𝗔𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗗𝗼𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 🐕

22/12/2024

A huge congratulations to all our Beginner and Intermediate Scent Detection teams for completing your 8-week course!

It’s been incredible to watch your dogs’ skills develop and see your teamwork in action. You’ve all achieved so much—well done!

A big thank you to Mandy from Conservation and Detection Dogs SA for running such a fantastic class and generously sharing her knowledge and expertise. Your guidance has been invaluable to everyone!

This marks the end of our Scent Detection classes for 2024, but we’ve already planned an exciting lineup for 2025. We’ve scheduled 4 terms of Scent Detection classes next year, with spots limited to just 5 teams per class to ensure quality training and individual attention. Spaces are already filling up fast!

If you’d like to secure your spot, please email [email protected] to book and secure your place.

We can’t wait to see what you and your dogs will achieve in 2025!

21/12/2024

Lovely Luna, the gorgeous German Shepherd, is back with us for a 5-week stay over the festive season while her family is away!

Having stayed with us before, Luna has settled in beautifully and is making the most of her time here. She’s enjoying plenty of mental and physical stimulation through training sessions, playtime, and visits to Ted’s Place. Whether it’s sharpening her skills, playing her favourite games, or exploring the great outdoors, Luna is thriving and keeping her clever mind and active body engaged.

We’re thrilled to have this lovely lady back with us and are dedicated to making her stay as enriching and enjoyable as always.

21/12/2024

Harvey, our favourite Great Dane x Bull Arab, is back with us for a 3-week stay over the Christmas break while his family enjoys the festive season!

At just 18 months old, Harvey might look all grown up, but he’s still a young teenager at heart. His owners have entrusted us with his training many times, often for longer stays, to ensure his skills stay sharp and consistent. During his time here, Harvey is enrolled in our Board and Train program to give his training a tidy-up and continue building on his progress.

We’re thrilled to have this cheeky giant back with us and can’t wait to see how much more he grows (figuratively, we hope – he’s big enough already!).

21/12/2024

Congratulations to our amazing Puppy Foundations and Basic Obedience Class for completing their 8-week course with us today!

Over the past two months, we’ve watched these pups and their dedicated owners grow together, mastering essential skills, building confidence, and creating a strong bond through positive training techniques. From nailing loose-lead walking to perfecting those all-important recalls, we couldn’t be prouder of the progress made by each and every one of you.

A big thank you to our fantastic trainer, Sharon, for guiding this group with her expertise and encouragement, and to all the families for committing to your dogs’ growth and success.

Graduates, this is just the beginning of your journey together – keep up the great work, and we can’t wait to see what you achieve next!

If you’re ready to start your puppy’s journey with us, our next round of Puppy Foundations and Basic Obedience (FULL) Classes commence in February 2025!

20/12/2024

📣 2025 Class Timetable Update 📣

Our 2025 class schedule is here, and we’re thrilled to see so many of you eager to kickstart the new year with your dogs!

🐾 Term 1 Update:
Our Basic Obedience Class is already fully booked for Term 1! A big thank you to everyone who has signed up – we can’t wait to see you and your dogs.

Other classes for Term 1 are filling up fast, so if you’re looking to join one of our Puppy Foundations or Scent Detection Classes, now is the time to secure your spot!

📧 Email us at [email protected] to reserve your place. Spaces are limited to 5 participants, and we’d hate for you to miss out!

Let’s make 2025 a year full of progress, fun, and bonding with our dogs. We can’t wait to work with you and your four-legged companions!

The EpicDog Team 🐕

19/12/2024

That’s a wrap on 2024 Epic Adventures!

We were absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible interest in this service and had an amazing time connecting with so many new and familiar dogs and owners. It’s been a joy to provide enriching adventures, training, and socialisation that truly make a difference in your dogs’ lives.

We’re already planning to come back in 2025 bigger and better than ever, ready to help you and your dogs achieve all your goals—and more!

Thank you for trusting us with your four-legged family members. We can’t wait to see many of you again in the new year!

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season,
The EpicDog Training & Adventures Team 🎅

17/12/2024

Are we seeing double? 🤨

Little Miss Sugar from Conservation & Detection Dogs SA joins us for an overnight stay, in preparation for her Epic Adventure tomorrow.

Sugar is sister to our Mischief maker Penny so you know these two together is going to be trouble 😈

We’re always up for the challenge!

17/12/2024

Lexi is still looking for that special place to call home 🏡

🌟 Lexi is Looking for Her Forever Home! 🌟

Meet Lexi, a 7-month-old Border Collie x Kelpie, who is ready to find her perfect family! This desexed, vaccinated sweetheart has had a bumpy start in life through no fault of her own. Initially purchased by a family who couldn’t meet her needs, Lexi is now in foster care with a loving family member who is helping her prepare for her next chapter.

Lexi joined us this week for an EpicDog Adventure Day, and we were blown away by her potential. Here’s what makes her so special:

✨ Driven and Eager to Learn: Lexi has fantastic food and toy drive, making her a dream to train.
✨ Curious and Resilient: Although she hasn’t seen much of the world yet, she’s eager to explore. She may give a quick bark at new things, but her curiosity quickly takes over, and she works through her stress beautifully.
✨ Sport Dog Potential: With the right guidance, Lexi could excel in agility or other dog sports.

Lexi’s foster family in Williamstown is doing an amazing job with her, but they’re in a later stage of life and can’t provide the high-energy lifestyle she needs. They’ve seen how remarkable she is and know she’ll thrive with someone who can appreciate her drive and channel her talents.

We believe Lexi’s future is bright with a committed owner who will:
🐾 Provide ongoing training and socialisation.
🐾 Expose her to new experiences and continue to build her confidence.
🐾 Help her reach her potential through activities or sports that challenge her mind and body.

To support her transition, we strongly recommend enrolling her in our 2025 Basic Obedience Class in February. We’re happy to share videos of Lexi’s training and socialisation sessions from her Adventure Day so you can see her in action!

Adoption Details:

• Lexi comes with an adoption fee, which will be discussed with serious applicants.
• We’re looking for a home that values her ongoing education and well-being.
• Applicants focused only on cost, or who aren’t committed to using training tools like crates, will not be considered.

If you’re interested in welcoming Lexi into your life, please email us at [email protected] with the following:
1️⃣ Information about you and your experience with dogs.
2️⃣ Why you want Lexi in your life.
3️⃣ How you’ll provide for her continued learning and care.

Let’s work together to find Lexi the loving, active home she deserves! ❤️

16/12/2024

We’re excited to share some big news—Ralph, our almost 2-year-old Blue Heeler, is officially staying with us!

Ralph came to us through our Rescue, Rehabilitate, and Rehome program, which has helped so many dogs find their forever families over the years. Typically, we focus on finding the perfect homes for our rescues, as keeping them ourselves isn’t something we take lightly. With our pack already made up of four dogs, the decision to add another wasn’t an easy one.

But from the moment Ralph arrived, it was as if he had always been part of our pack. His quirky personality, boundless energy, and ability to connect with each of our dogs made it impossible to imagine life without him. While he comes with his own set of challenges, we’re confident that staying with us is the best decision for Ralph and his future.

We look forward to giving Ralph the structure, adventures, and love he deserves as he continues to grow into the amazing dog we know he can be.

Welcome to the pack, Ralph—you’re home! 🐾

16/12/2024

We’ve just returned from an incredible adventure on the Yorke Peninsula with our five dogs—Millie, Keetah, Cora, Ralph, and Penny—and what a time we had!

From salty swims to sandy paws, our days were filled with exploring, splashing, and soaking up the summer vibes. The dogs had an absolute blast cooling down in the ocean, chasing waves, and enjoying the simple joys of life.

These moments are what we live for—seeing our dogs happy, carefree, and thriving. Adventures like these remind us how important it is to give our dogs the skills and confidence to enjoy the world with us.

Thank you, Yorke Peninsula, for the memories, the salty kisses, and the sandy footprints. Until next time! 🌊🐾

14/12/2024

When the Sun Rises

As dawn’s first light pierces the lingering haze,
We stand as one in its gilded blaze.
Your eyes, aglow with a soulful gleam,
Guide my heart like a waking dream.

And as the sun ascends, its warmth unfolds,
I feel your love in the day it holds.
Together we tread, with spirits aligned,
Bound by a bond no time can unwind.

Each sunrise heralds a promise anew,
A world to traverse, just me and you.
Through every horizon, near or afar,
You’ll forever remain my guiding star.