TrailWag: Your Trusted Partner for Dog Walking and Training in Kingston, Ontario
Why We Offer What We Do
At TrailWag, we are passionate about providing exceptional dog walking services in Kingston, Ontario. Our Adventure Walks offer a unique experience, taking dogs beyond the typical city environment into the natural beauty of our local parks. We proudly serve the Kingston area within a 30km radius, ensuring that every dog we walk gets the best outdoor experience possible.
Inspired by the proximity to stunning provincial parks and conservation areas around Kingston, Ontario, our founder, Hannah, envisioned a dog walking service that truly connects dogs with nature. This vision led to our focus on trail adventures that leave dogs happy, tired, and fulfilled.
We also offer in-home private dog training within the 30km radius of Kingston, Ontario. For those outside this area, our dog training services are available virtually.
Committed to building stronger bonds between dogs and their owners, our training options include the Pup Start Program for new dog owners and a Settling-In Service to help adopted dogs adjust to their new homes. Each session is designed to deepen your understanding of your dog, fostering a harmonious and joyful relationship.
At TrailWag, everything we do is rooted in our mission to provide enriching experiences that create positive connections between dogs, their owners, and our dedicated team.
We go beyond the ordinary walk around the block. We believe in providing a balanced and fulfilling experience for every dog by enhancing overall well-being through fun, training, and exploration. Our commitment to sustainability means we aim to protect and preserve the environment, ensuring nature can be enjoyed by future generations of fur friends and their people.
Our Mission
Provide enriching adventures in nature for our dogs, fostering their physical and mental well-being while in harmony with the world around us. We aim to set a standard for sustainability in the pet care industry. By embracing green technology, including purchasing a fully electric vehicle for TrailWag within the first year, we commit to preserving the natural world for future generations of dogs and their owners.
Our Vision
Our Values
Ethical Decision Making
We make ethical decisions, even when challenging. This commitment guides our actions towards the well-being of our canine clients, environmental sustainability, and integrity. Our team is empowered to uphold these values, no matter the difficulty.
Well-Being Comes First
The happiness and health of our canine clients and humans are paramount. Every adventure, training session, and enrichment activity prioritizes the best interests of the dogs and our staff. Our dedicated staff ensures safety, comfort, and enjoyment in all we do.
Empathy, Compassion, and Kindness
We treat canines, clients, and colleagues with empathy, compassion, and kindness, creating a supportive and nurturing environment.
Work, Learn, and Grow Together
We believe in the power of education and enthusiasm to inspire positive change. Our employees are encouraged to continuously learn and share their insights. Through collaboration, open communication, and mutual growth, we create a supportive environment for everyone to thrive.
Clear is Kind. Unclear is Unkind
We value transparency and honesty. Clear communication fosters trust and understanding, promoting kindness through clarity in all our interactions. Our team is committed to being trustworthy and open, fostering strong relationships with clients and their pets.
Our Philosophy
At TrailWag, we believe dog training is a journey, not a destination. Our approach is designed to foster a strong bond between you and your dog. Here's what sets us apart:
Coaching Over Commanding
Dog training should be a collaborative experience. Dog trainers study and explore what drives behaviour and how dogs learn best. This knowledge is crucial, but it's just as important to pass this information on to you, the owner. That's why we treat each training session as a coaching opportunity, equipping you with the skills and understanding needed to nurture your dog's growth and well-being.
Empathy and Respect
If we wouldn't feel comfortable asking our dog to do something, we won't ask your dog to do it either. Whether it's avoiding walks in extreme weather or respecting your dog's limits, we prioritise empathy and respect. Your dog's comfort and safety are paramount.
Your Dog, Your Choices
At TrailWag, we recognise that you understand your dog better than anyone. Training or hiking with us allows us to step into your world and provide an outside perspective on why your relationship or training might not be as effective as you’d like it to be.
Our role is to support you every step of the way, offering guidance and advice to help you and your dog thrive together.
Explore our Kingston Ontario dog walking and training services to discover how TrailWag can help you and your dog enjoy wild adventures and well-trained companionship.
Hannah Bird
FOUNDER/DOG PERSON
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Hello! I'm Hannah, the founder of TrailWag. I think it's important to know who you're working with, so here's a little bit about me.
My journey in dog training began with my dog, Geralt, who inspired me to pursue this path, although my interest in dog behaviour and training has been there from day one.I come from a family of creatives in the advertising and film industry, which naturally led me to a career in that field for many years. During my time as a commercial producer, I learned the importance of client relations, maintaining a schedule, and staying organized. More importantly, I realized how vital it is to uphold personal values and the impact of sticking to them.
My passion for dogs was unwavering no matter where I went in life. In the back of my mind, I felt working with dogs was what I was meant to do. Transitioning from the world of advertising to dog training/walking was a daunting yet necessary step that profoundly changed my life.
I believe dogs bring immense joy and companionship to our lives, and in return, they deserve happiness, enrichment and adventure.
At TrailWag, my goal is to provide enriching experiences and effective training to help your dog live their best life. I can't wait to embark on this journey with you and your furry friend.
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SIRIUS Dog Trainer Academy
Group Class Instructor & Assistant (2+ Years)
Dog walker (3+ years)
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Note: I do not get any $$ for these recommendations, these are just podcasts, books and dog related items I have personally found useful.
The Bitey End of the Dog Podcast