Reactivity Therapy with Jess Jones

21/03/2024

It’s time for a re-introduction 🐾

Since we’ve had a glow up, I thought I would tell you a bit more about me☺️

Hiya, I’m Jess! 👋

→ Wild at Heart is my baby (and this group by extension!). I’m so proud to have been running this wonderful small business since 2019.

→ I was born to work with dogs. I’ve always had a special connection with them, like we speak the same language!

→ I am autistic and also have ADHD, it impacts my daily life in lots of ways, but I also think it‘s one of the reasons I’m so good at what I do!

→ I am a spiritual person! My practice involves staying connected to nature and the elements, and my spirit animal is the wolf (no surprises there!). I live and do my work as an empath, and I aim to appreciate each one of my dogs as a unique soul, and understand them on a more emotional and energetic level.

Please tell me about yourself (and your dogs) in the comments if we haven’t met yet! ⬇️💕

18/03/2024

Wow... what a response! 🥹

Thank you all so much for your applications for the Associate Dog Walker position.

You have until the end of the week (22nd) to apply, and we'll be in touch with everyone very soon 💖

This could soon be your office view🌲🐾

Find the application form here: https://linktr.ee/wild_at_heart_dogs

15/03/2024

We’re hiring - join the Wild at Heart family!

We’re looking for a new Associate Dog Walker to join the WAH team.

This is the job for you if you:

♥︎ Love dogs!
♥︎ Want a fun job where you get paid to make fur babies happy
♥︎ Are based in South Shields, Hebburn or surrounding areas
♥︎ Want a flexible, freelance job
♥︎ Are reliable, self-motivated, and physically fit

Find out more about the role and apply here: https://linktr.ee/wild_at_heart_dogs

I can’t wait to hear from you! 🥰

Love Jess
x

13/03/2024

New look, same Wild at Heart! ♥︎

I’ve been making some changes to my branding, my social media, and across my business, and I’m so excited to share it with you! 🥹

Please follow this page Wild At Heart Dogs, or over on the instagram - that's where you'll be able to see all updates and follow along for adventures, but there will be changes coming to this page too so I'd love to know...

What would you like to see from this group?

Please leave your thoughts in the comments below, thank you!

Love Jess
x

08/11/2023

Our beautiful dogs are always doing their very best with the inner and external resources they have.

07/11/2023

I am so excited to announce an incredible opportunity for all reactive dog guardians out there! 🐶🎉

Join me on November 30th at 7:30 PM GMT for a FREE Understanding Reactivity Masterclass live in my brand new Facebook group, "Guardians With Fearful Dog's Support Circle." This event marks the official launch of our group, and it's open to everyone, so feel free to invite your fellow guardians!

📌 Date: November 30th
⏰ Time: 7:30 PM

🐕 Is your dog sometimes anxious or reactive in certain situations?
🤔 Are you looking for effective strategies to help your dog feel more confident and secure?

In this masterclass, I'll talk about understanding reactivity in dogs and explore practical tips and techniques to support your dog. Whether your dog is new to your family or you've been together for years, there's always something new to learn about helping them live their best, happiest lives.

What to expect:
✅ Insights into the reasons behind dog reactivity
✅ Practical strategies to reduce reactivity and anxiety
✅ Mindset when training your dog

To join the masterclass, simply click the link below to request access to my Facebook group, "Guardians With Fearful Dog's Support Circle":
https://www.facebook.com/groups/guardianswithfearfuldogs

06/11/2023

🌟 I have 1 slot available for My Rehab Walk program and I’m offering a limited discount to all new and returning dog guardians to help with those money worries until New Year 🌟

Are you tired of those frustrating walks with your dog, where pulling, barking, and lunging make every step a challenge? I totally understand the struggle from personal experience , and I'm here to make your life easier and your dog happier! 🐶🚶

🎉 **Exciting News: Book Now and Transform Your Walks with Our Exclusive 25% Discount!** 🎉

Here's why choosing us will make you and your dog feel amazing:

✨ **1-1 Training Walks for Consistency:** Life gets busy, and we make sure your dog's training stays on track, even on your most hectic days. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to a relaxed and confident dog!

🌈 **Lifetime Support:** I'm not just your dog's coach; I'm also your support system. Enjoy lifelong guidance and exclusive discounts for additional sessions. Im always here to help.

💪 **For Guardians Who Struggle:** I've got your back if walking your dog has been a challenge. You'll gain confidence, and every step will feel lighter.

🏆 **Quicker Training Goals:** Achieve your dog's training goals in record time and become a more skilled and confident guardian. It's a win-win for both you and your pup!

Ready to elevate your walks and feel the pure joy of a well-behaved dog by your side? It's easy and effortless to get started:

**Simply drop me a message to Secure Your Spot and Enjoy the Exclusive 25% Discount!**

Join us on this exciting journey to a happier, more relaxed, and confident walk with your furry companion. Your dog will thank you, and you'll feel the difference with every step. 🌟🐾

05/11/2023

Finally got little girl settled from the fire works and asleep 🥰 Whilst Kovu’s calmed down and napping in his safe space.

Massage works wonders with helping dogs relax and release any stress they may be holding on to 🐾

Hope all your pups arnt struggling too much ❤️

05/11/2023

Today I went to see Bailey and his guardians for our second session and they all did amazing🥰

Baileys guardians came to me exhausted and stressed as every walk with Bailey ended up being more of a chore rather than a enjoyable event they had previously tried a number of things but we’re still struggling with Baileys anxiety around triggers

Bailey is quite a nervous pup and has the tendency to pull, lunge, jump and bark at unknown people , dogs and moving vehicles when he is on lead.

For the past few weeks we have been working on helping him feel more relaxed outdoors and feeling abit more confident in himself.

Today we focused more on staying connected with his guardians and being able to watch the world go by whilst keeping his anxiety levels low and learning other ways to cope with his triggers.

So happy to see progress and results from all the hard work his guardians are putting in and they alot more happier and confident when out on walks now too 🥰

Well Done Everyone 😊🐶

03/11/2023

New car day !!!!! Now I can travel further to help your doggy’s ❤️🐶❤️

Help me pick a name ! 😊

02/11/2023

No wonder they have so much love to give! Did you know this? 🐶❤️

31/10/2023

Halloween's tonight, and I want you and your dog to be as settled as possible. Let's run through this checklist to make sure your dog's all prepped:

🌞 Let's kick off the prep with a nice early afternoon walk to tire them out. A pooped pooch is a happy one, especially when the doorbell's going crazy later!

🎶 How about some tunes or turning on the radio? It'll help drown out all those spooky noises outside. Our dog will appreciate the distraction.

🍬 Keep those Halloween sweets well out of reach.

🚪 Create a cozy corner for your dog to hang out in, away from the doorbell madness. A soft bed and some favourite toys should do the trick.

🥘 Plan to feed your dog a little earlier than usual to avoid any tummy upsets later.

🐶 Lastly, make sure you let your dog decide the pace of the night, if they come up to you to be cuddled then go ahead, but don't force them!

31/10/2023

PSA 📢📢📢

Dogs are not public property

Person: “Can I pet your dog?”
Me: “No you may not.”

When I say this unapologetically, sometimes people get upset. They assume that if they're asking nicely, I should automatically say "of course!"

In a world where dogs are often affectionately referred to as "pets," it's important to understand how this word shapes our expectations and interactions with the animals in our care.

We live in a society where we understand that we can't simply touch someone else's belongings without permission, but what about touching someone else's dog? Is it any different?

Let's explore the idea of respecting personal boundaries, both for dogs and their human caregivers.

**The Term "Pet" and Our Expectations**

The term "pet" is commonly used to describe domesticated animals who live with and are cared for by humans. Dogs in particular, have been bred and trained for a long time to fill various roles alongside us, from hunting partners to loyal companions.

As a result, we often have certain expectations of how dogs should behave as "pets." They are expected to be sociable, friendly, and well-behaved, like a well-trained member of the family.

It's often forgotten that dogs are sentient beings with emotions and needs. Many people's expectations of them don't prioritize their well-being or respect their individuality. This is where the concept of holistic, trauma-informed care can come into play.

**What Needs to Change**

My main role as a holistic behavior consultant is teaching people how to approach their interactions with dogs with empathy and and a better understanding of their experiences. Just like humans, animals can experience trauma that shapes their behavior.

Recognizing this allows us to provide better care and support. More often than not, dog's behavior issues are a direct result of inappropriate human interaction, which includes touching without consent.

One critical aspect of a holistic approach is understanding that permission from the owner to interact with a dog doesn't automatically mean consent from the dog. Each dog has its unique personality, comfort level, and past experiences that influence their behavior.

**Respecting Boundaries and Consent**

So, how do we ensure healthy interactions with dogs? It starts with respecting their boundaries and allowing them to express their consent. Seeking permission from the owner is the first step, but it's not the only one. Instead of reaching out to touch a dog immediately, it's essential to be available and open to the dog's cues they're giving you.

Let the dog decide whether they want to engage with you. By taking this approach, you honor the dog's autonomy and boundaries, creating a more positive and stress-free experience for both the dog and the person. It's about recognizing and respecting the dog's individual preferences and comfort levels.

The term "pet" carries historical connotations, but our understanding of dogs should evolve to prioritize their well-being and recognize them as sentient beings. Promoting responsible and respectful interactions with animals is a fundamental aspect of holistic, trauma-informed animal care.

Remember that permission from the owner doesn't mean automatic consent from the dog. Be available to meet the dog and let them decide if they want to engage with you. This way, we can create a world where dogs are treated with the respect and consideration they deserve.

Be an advocate for your dog’s personal space, but also educate others about letting the dog decide.

**Book recommendations : **

Linda Michaels MA
The Do No Harm Dog Training and Behavior Handbook: Featuring the Hierarchy of Dog Needs®
https://amzn.to/40hPSqe

30/10/2023

Happy Monday !

Me and Freya were surprise greeted by this little cutie 🐱🐱

Luckily with all of the great work Freya's been doing on her walks she was able to just ignore this little kitty and I still had a arm intact !!

Did spike my heart rate tho, we havnt actually done any specific techniques around cats but our teachings are so we can use them for any situation and she did amazing ❤️❤️

29/10/2023

So, you know how sometimes people say you should make your reactive dog 'face their fear'? Well, let me spill the beans on why that might not be the best idea.

Reactive dogs, they're not just acting up for fun. There's usually a deeper reason – fear, anxiety, past bad experiences, or just too much going on around them. When we push them into situations that freak them out, it's like adding fuel to the fire, making things even worse.

Here's the deal: when your dog reacts, it's their way of saying, 'Hey, this is too much for me!' So, what's the right move? Instead of forcing them into stressful situations, try being the understanding guardian they need. When they react, back off from the source of stress, and create a chill zone for them to catch their breath.

Responding with patience and empathy is helping them to build their confidence and conquer their fears in their own time. It's a bit of a journey, but trust me, it's totally worth it.

27/10/2023

Now you know why you have to stand in the garden for 10 minutes in the pouring rain waiting! 💩🤣

26/10/2023

Hi guys ! :)

Although my buisness is growing faster than i could of possibly dreamed,my page could use some love to assist in promoting our services, and your support can make a massive impact without any cost.

Here are a few ways you can help:

✅Like my page Reactivity Therapy with Jess Jones and share it.

✅Click Reactivity Therapy with Jess Jones then click the three dots, and invite your friends to like the business page.

If any of our previous or current clients could spare a moment to share how I've helped you and your dog, it would mean the absolute world to me. 🙏🥰🐾

22/10/2023

We are getting closer and closer to Bonfire Night and Halloween- and this usually means fireworks. In fact, you may have heard or seen them already! 🎆

If your dog is quite nervous when it comes to fireworks, here are my top tips for keeping them calm, safe and secure over the next couple of weeks. 🐾

How does your dog feel about fireworks? Tell me in the comments.

22/10/2023

19/10/2023

Let's talk about my online training.

No matter where you are, we can team up online for some amazing 1-1 dog coaching. And the best part? I'm always just a message away. Yep, from our very first session to the last, I'm here for you and your dog Trust me, going digital with dog training works wonders!

Why Train With Me? 🐶

In my experience with canine behaviour, I've come to understand that dogs are far more than just pets; they are emotionally profound creatures seeking comprehension and empathy. Particularly with unique dogs that may exhibit anxious or nervous tendencies, it becomes essential to delve deeply into their emotional cores, prioritising trust and emotional well-being. By adopting a perspective that allows us to 'walk in their paws', we can truly see the world through a dog’s eyes, creating transformative shifts in the owner-pet relationship. My approach is not centred on 'fixing', but rather on educating and guiding pet owners, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to resonate deeply with their pups.

🚫 No Quick Fixes Here: We're building a strong, lasting friendship between you and your dog.

Ready to work on your relationship with your dog? Let’s chat and get started on this fun online journey. Drop me a message! 📩

19/10/2023

Today, Monty and I ventured out for solo walk .

It turned out to be quite the adventure, and I'd like to share it with all fellow dog lovers to promote understanding and consideration in our canine community. 🐕🐾

Monty, a little Border Terrier, has already passed his Rehab walks but today we did abit of training in more busier environments - school's out, kids everywhere, dogs galore, you name it. Monty? Absolutely smashed it. No barking, no lunging, just confidence and that tail wagging like crazy. 🌟🚀❤️

We ended up spotting a dog that was off-lead, accompanied by their human.

We decided to take a detour to ensure their pup could enjoy some playtime and giving them plenty of time to call their dog back to pop them on a lead

Suddenly, this unleashed dog sprinted up to Monty from behind, and he instinctively went into "I must protect myself mode"

Now, Monty doesn't have a clue if that dog's friendly or not. In his world, it's just a random dog making a surprise entrance he could potentially be a threat and Monty was going to take the time to find out. We're not blaming the other pup, it's about us taking responsibility as dog parents. 🐾🤝

Our job as guardians is to protect our dogs . That means giving space, changing directions, or even using our voices when necessary, not because we think the other dog's a villain but because Monty has his own past experiences, and we're working through them. 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️

It's essential to respect the boundaries of fellow dog guardians and their dogs.

By doing so, we're not just looking out for our dogs but for everyone's safety. We certainly don't want anyone's dog to get hurt.

Thankfully, Monty was able to regain his composure as we created some distance between the dog and engaged him in some calming activities and no dogs were harmed ! 🥰

16/10/2023

Who said your dog can't enjoy a Howl-O-Ween treat? Give this recipe a go!

Pumpkin-Peanut Pup Delight 🍪

Ingredients:

225g of pumpkin puree (ensure it’s plain pumpkin, not the spiced or sweetened variety)
125g of natural peanut butter (make sure it's xylitol-free)
500g of whole wheat flour (or a grain-free alternative)
60ml of water (add as needed)
Steps:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens).
In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree and peanut butter. Gradually fold in the flour, adding water as needed to make the dough workable.
Roll the dough out to about 0.5cm thickness and use cookie cutters to create Halloween shapes.
Place the treats on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they're firm and golden.
Let them cool before serving to your eager dog!

Let me know what you think in the comments.

14/10/2023

As we approach Halloween, a time of fun and excitement, it's vital to ensure the safety of our dogs amidst the celebrations. Here are some of my top safety tips:

Guard Against Harmful Treats: Chocolates and many sweets are toxic to dogs. Always keep them out of their reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

Ensure Microchip Details are Current: In the off-chance that your dog becomes disoriented or lost amidst the Halloween hustle, an up-to-date microchip can help with their safe return.

Designate a Safe Space: Due to unfamiliar sounds and sights, some dogs might find Halloween unsettling. Designate a quiet and comfortable space where your dog can retreat and relax if overwhelmed. 🐾

Decorations at a Distance: While decorations enhance the Halloween spirit, they can be hazardous if ingested. Always ensure they are positioned away from curious noses and paws. 🕸

Preparation is key. As we start to immerse in the Halloween spirit, it's equally important to consider and address the needs and safety of our pets. Ensuring a secure environment for them ensures an enjoyable celebration for all.

13/10/2023

South Shields and Nearby Residents, Let's Work On Your Bond with Your Dog!

Join me on an intensive 1-2-1 journey. From those taking their first steps to those keen on deepening existing connections with their pups, I offer steadfast, non-judgmental guidance, uniquely tailored to your journey. What's more, I'm with you every step of the way, offering continuous support via WhatsApp between sessions, starting from day one.

Reach out for more details! Let's make your canine connection even more extraordinary. Visit my page to find out more about what you can expect from your journey with me!

11/10/2023

As the leaves start to fall and the cozy vibes of autumn set in, it's the perfect time to treat our dogs with something special. I'm thrilled to share with you an exclusive Autumn Lickymat recipe that is both nutritious and delightful for our dogs.

Raw Beef and Autumn Vegetables Delight

Ingredients:

500 grams ground beef
1 teaspoon h**p powder (optional but great for added health benefits!)
1 heap tablespoon cooked or raw baby peas
1 cooked or raw carrot, chopped
½ teaspoon fresh chopped parsley (for that breath-freshening touch!)
Directions:

In a bowl, combine ground beef with h**p powder. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also sprinkle in some turmeric for an extra health kick!

Blend well and spread this meaty mixture onto a Lickymat.

Gently press some of the mixture into the mat's surface. This ensures a little extra treat at the end of their licking session!

Scatter baby peas and carrot bits over the surface.

Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to keep that doggie breath fresh!

Not only are these Lick Mats great for treats, but they're also incredibly useful in the run-up to Halloween, ensuring your dog remains calm and distracted. Get yours here: https://www.lickymats.co.uk/jessjones

11/10/2023

Halloween is around the corner, and just as some decorations might've once startled us, our dogs can feel the same way. Enter the Confidence Box game!

How It Plays Out:

🐾 Box It Up: Grab a box or laundry basket.

🐾 Fill with Safe Objects: Think plastic bottles, metal spoons, or crumpled newspaper. Like a mini haunted house for them to explore!

🐾 Hide Some Treats: Among the objects, sprinkle their fave treats or daily food.

🐾 Watch & Learn: Some hesitation? All part of the game. Every reaction offers insight into their feelings.

Over time, as they play, they'll learn new noises and surprises often lead to delightful treats. It’s all about helping them build confidence in fun and familiar surroundings.

Tip: If they're a bit shy, let them start with one object. Just like us testing the waters before a chilly swim, they'll warm up!

As we ready ourselves for Halloween, let's help our dogs do the same. It's more than adjusting to the time of year—it's about making sure they feel confident and cared for in the midst of the spooks. 🐾

06/10/2023

We all know what it's like when our besties struggle with lunging and barking on walks, right? 🐕

It can feel like a never-ending challenge, especially when it seems like everyone else has "easygoing" dogs.

The truth is, it can be incredibly isolating.

Those judgmental stares, the embarrassment, the frustration, and the sheer exhaustion – I get it, and it's okay to feel all of that. 🤗

But you know what?

I want you to know that you're never alone in this journey.

Trust me; I've been right where you are, feeling all those emotions too. 🐶❤️

I'm here not as a trainer or expert, but as a friend who genuinely cares.

I want to help you and your dogs feel better and more confident together.

Together, we can conquer this challenge and come out stronger, emotionally and mentally. 🌟

05/10/2023

Training Walks Available In Hebburn!

I believe our dogs are not just "pets." They're soulful beings bursting with emotion, longing to be truly understood.

Tailored for Big Personalities: My approach is specialised for dogs that are nervous, anxious, or reactive.

Deep Healing: I focus on energetic and emotional healing, not just surface-level tricks.

Empathy Above All: With me, you'll learn to see the world through your dog's eyes, giving you the tools to be their rock during challenging times.

Empowerment, Not Fixes: My mission is not to "fix" your dog. Instead, I empower YOU with a deep understanding and the skills to navigate your dog's unique challenges.

🚫 No Traditional Cues, No Quick Band-aids 🚫 My methods aren't about short-lived tactics or instant miracles. They're about nurturing a profound bond rooted in mutual understanding and trust.

Hebburn Residents, Let's Deepen That Canine Connection Join me for 1-1 coaching and training walks right here in our community. Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to deepen your bond, I offer unwavering, non-judgmental support tailored to your unique journey. Message me for more information!

04/10/2023

🐾 Exciting News! 🐾

Im sooo happy to announce that i am a professional partner and family member with Wooflinks - The Home of Dog Professionals, a professional directory committed to helping doggy guardians find ethical, kind, and trusted professionals for our furry friends!

I've always been very passionate about the well-being of our dogs, and this partnership with WoofLinks reinforces our dedication to providing the best for our besties . 🐶❤️

WoofLinks is on a mission to make it easier for dog guardians to connect with reliable and compassionate professionals, whether it's finding a skilled veterinarian, a loving pet sitter, or a certified dog trainer. Their extensive directory is a valuable resource for those who want the very best for their furry family members.

I believe that every dog deserves the utmost care and attention, and by teaming up with WoofLinks, we're taking a significant step towards ensuring just that.

Together, we will empower doggy guardians to make informed choices and provide their pets with the highest quality services.

Thank you Wooflinks - The Home of Dog Professionals for creating such a amazing and important service ❤️

Go check it out https://wooflinks.co.uk/listing/reactivity-therapy/

Taking centre stage as our newest Pro Partner at Wooflinks is the lovely Reactivity Therapy with Jess Jones

Jess had previously built an extremely successful dog walking business, but has now specialised in supporting owners with helping their reactive dogs. She is bravely taking her passion and gift for interacting with dogs to the next level.
She shares some excellent, useful tips on her social media, so please give her a follow, and a huge welcome to The Wooflinks Family 🐶

Find her Professional Partner profile on Wooflinks:
https://wooflinks.co.uk/listing/reactivity-therapy/