19/05/2024
Hi❣️ Heather here, owner & operator of MindfulMutz. I just wanted to take a quick moment to introduce myself to anyone that might be new here, as it’s been a while!  
Growing up in Asheville (yes, I am a native!), I often found myself drawn to every dog  within 100 mile radius of wherever I was… I often visited the neighborhood dogs,  on my route to and from the school bus stop in the less than trendy at that time West Asheville neighborhoods, where I grew up.
Not having a dog of my own, although longing so badly for one, I befriended many dogs over the years, several of whom I recall eagerly greeted me with full body wags at the end of their chain, which they endured day in and day out…  
I consider what I know now as an adult and professional and consider myself quite lucky, honestly, that I was never bitten as a child, innocently befriending these dogs. Nonetheless, I was always madly in love with & intrigued by dogs, as I think so many of us dog loving humans can say if we reflect back to our childhood…
This adoration ultimately led me to working with dogs in a variety of settings, including several shelter organizations.
During this time, I found myself wanting to know more. Why.
Why did this dog land in the shelter? Why did this dog bite this person? Why did this one attack his housemate? Why is this one so anxious she hasn’t eaten for 3 days since she’s been here? And so on…
Ultimately, I decided to pursue a formal and professional education and career in canine behavior and training, graduating with honors from San Francisco based The Academy for Dog Trainers in 2009.
Upon graduation, I began my professional career as a lead trainer with a behavior center, pursuing my national professional credentialing through the CCPDT, and more recently becoming a FPPE; licensed educator with Family Paws Parent Education.
Although I feel like there are not enough hours in the day sometimes (am I the only one that feels like this?!😂) , I strive to continue my professional growth, education & credentialing.
I’m passionate about providing my clients, both human and dog with humane and kind support, recognizing that every situation, human and dog is unique and needs to be treated as such.
Our dogs deserve to be heard and understood, first and foremost. They deserve for us to meet their needs as they so willingly seem to meet ours without complaint day in and day out.
I really think that most of us are simply looking for ways to live life harmoniously with our four-legged friends.
❤️Warmly, Heather