Welcome to Miki's Pet Care
Evidence-based, force-free dog training and boutique, low-capacity daycare serving Lower Hutt and the greater Wellington region.
Force-Free, Evidence-Based Reactive Dog Support in Lower Hutt & Greater Wellington
Evidence-based, force-free dog training and boutique, low-capacity daycare serving Lower Hutt and the greater Wellington region.
My philosophy is rooted entirely in modern behavioral science and positive reinforcement.
Here is why: reactivity is rarely about defiance, stubbornness, or a dog trying to "be in charge."
In the vast majority of cases, explosive behavior on leash is an involuntary emotional response driven by fear, social pressure, or frustration. Suppressing that behavior with physical discomfort or intimidation might stop a bark in the short term, but it leaves the underlying fear intact, often making the emotional fallout worse down the road.
Instead, we work together to:
Manage the environment so your dog stops practicing high-stress reactions.
Work sub-threshold, keeping your dog at a distance where their thinking brain can still function.
Change the emotional association using counter-conditioning and desensitization, so triggers no longer signal danger.
Empower you with clear, practical handling mechanics that give you your peace of mind back.
Working with a reactive dog can feel incredibly isolating. You might feel judged by passersby, misunderstood by family, or overwhelmed by contradictory advice online.
When you work with me, you will never encounter shame, blame, or unrealistic expectations. Every dog’s journey is individual and non-linear. My role isn't to judge where you and your dog are starting it’s to stand beside you with practical, compassionate, and evidence-based guidance so you can both breathe a little easier.