Rehab. Train. Thrive.

Where dogs and humans learn how to thrive

Are you struggling to connect with your dogs?

Perhaps your canine companion cowers in fear, avoiding even the simplest interactions. Or maybe you've adopted a dog, only to discover that their past trauma has left them unable to trust or engage with you. Maybe you are seeking help with a reactive dog that barks at other dogs or passers-by. It's all a common scenario – one that many owners, rescuers, and trainers face every day.

At Hart to Heart, I understand the challenges of working with dogs that need a little extra guidance. These dogs are overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty. They see leashes as traps, and every interaction with humans is fraught with anxiety. Or maybe the dog’s behavior is embarrassing or causing stress in the household. When they enter my care, the healing and trust begins. There is hope.

I believe that true rehabilitation and effective training begins with trust – trust between human and dog, trust in the process, and trust in the power of connection.

Through personalized training, compassionate support, and practical guidance, I help owners, rescuers, and trainers walk the path to a deeper bond with their canine companions. I teach you how to speak the language of dogs, to understand their fears and motivations, and to guide the dog and their humans toward a brighter, happier future.

Dogs are more than just pets – they're our greatest guides in understanding compassion, trust, and communication. If you're ready to see your dog not just survive, but thrive, I’m here to help – because every dog deserves a chance to find their Hart to Heart connection.

Meet Julie: Your Compassionate Canine Coach

Hi, I'm Julie, and I'm deeply passionate about fostering positive relationships between dogs and their owners. My journey began in 2009, when I immersed myself in the world of dog rescue, working to rehabilitate dogs, match dogs with loving families, and provide them with the care and support they need to thrive.

Over the years, I've developed a comprehensive training program aimed at improving adoptions, reducing returns, and maintaining high volunteer morale within rescues and shelters. By selecting dogs based on their temperament, rehabilitating them, and addressing behavioral issues, I've helped countless dogs find their forever homes and supported shelters in achieving their mission.

In addition to my work with rescues and shelters, I've also dedicated myself to educating dog parents, fellow dog trainers, rescue workers, veterinarian staff, and other canine professionals through workshops and training sessions. Since 2015, I've conducted workshops both locally in New Mexico and nationwide, sharing my expertise on topics such as living with fearful dogs, responsible dog rescue practices, and effective training techniques.

My approach to dog training is holistic and personalized, focusing on understanding each dog's core needs and tailoring solutions to suit their individual personalities. Whether it's teaching leash manners, addressing reactivity issues, or building trust with fearful dogs, I'm committed to helping dog owners strengthen the bond they share.

How I Help

I work with all types of dogs and specialize in fearful and feral dogs, offering personalized training and rehabilitation programs to help them thrive. By addressing the root causes of behavior concerns and prioritizing trust-building techniques, I empower both dogs and their human companions to form lasting bonds built on mutual respect and understanding

The Nose Knows!

Did you know that using a dog's super sniffing skills can help us train and fix behavior problems in a big way? By tapping into their amazing sense of smell, we can address behavior concerns at their root, rather than merely treating symptoms. Utilizing effective relationship-building methods, tools, and training techniques alongside the dog's sense of smell allows for a holistic approach to behavior improvement. It's about embracing the unique way our canine companions perceive the world and using it to guide them toward positive behavior. Together, we'll sniff out the root causes of any concerns and pave the way for a happier, harmonious relationship!

  • Dog Parent Support

    I specialize in enhancing the relationship, trust, and communication between dogs and their human companions, with a particular focus on fearful and feral dogs. While I prefer in-person sessions at the client's home for a tailored approach, virtual lessons are available for those outside the East Mountain/Albuquerque area. Drawing from my extensive experience in dog rescue, I also provide dog matchmaking services to help you find your perfect furry companion. I have many dog owners attend my workshops and utilize online learning platform, where I offer specialized resources for effectively addressing fearful and feral dog behavior.

    Learn more

  • Dog Rescue and Shelter Solutions

    I've crafted a specialized training program, Rescue Dogs Responsibly, aimed at enhancing adoptions, decreasing returns, and fostering a positive volunteer atmosphere. This program prioritizes selecting dogs with stable temperaments, rehabilitating them, addressing fear issues, and instilling essential house manners. Additionally, I offer support to shelters and rescues through workshops, one-on-one consulting sessions, and online learning resources. I also provide workshops and online learning tailored to address behavior challenges commonly faced by rescue dogs, aiding in their successful rehabilitation and adoption.

    Online Learning

  • Training for Dog Professionals

    Since 2015, I've been sharing my expertise through dynamic workshops tailored for a diverse audience, including dog trainers, rescuers, veterinary staff, and other canine professionals. With experience conducting workshops both locally in New Mexico and across the nation, along with presenting at prestigious dog training conferences, I've established myself as a trusted authority in the field. Through my online learning platform, I offer comprehensive resources for dog trainers seeking to assist fearful and feral dogs effectively. Additionally, I provide personalized virtual consulting sessions for those grappling with challenging cases. My workshops encompass a wide range of topics, including "Living with Fearful Dogs" and "Rescuing Dogs Responsibly," among others, with a focus on fostering positive outcomes for both dogs and their human companions.

    Learn About Workshops

Dog Training Services

  • I specialize in enhancing the relationship, trust, and communication between dogs and their human companions, with a focus on fearful and feral dogs. My one-on-one, private dog training services cater to dog parents and their companion dogs, foster dog parents, rescues, or trainers seeking tailored solutions to dog behavior concerns. I believe in improving understanding, communication, and trust between humans and dogs, combining relationship-building exercises, trust-building activities, and obedience training to achieve success. I emphasize the importance of using the dog’s language and promoting their natural instincts to facilitate rehabilitation.

  • Join Hart to Heart’s online learning community featuring authentic case studies and real-time situations, providing practical insights into dog behavior improvement. Unlike traditional online training programs, these courses transcend traditional training techniques and offer a hands-on approach with real dogs facing real challenges. Designed to enhance the skills of pet parents and dog professionals alike, the courses focus on methods, theories, and techniques tailored to address the needs of fearful and feral dogs.

  • My dog workshops take a holistic approach, focusing on understanding the core essence of each dog before exploring various methods and techniques for behavior improvement. Demonstration dogs with severe fear are welcomed in my workshops, providing valuable learning experiences for attendees. Workshop topics cover a range of subjects, including “Living with Fearful Dogs”, “Rescuing Dogs Responsibly”, and more, with customization available upon request.

Join the Journey: Subscribe to the Podcast

Where Dogs Are our Teachers

Have you ever stopped to wonder if we're truly grasping the lessons our dogs are trying to teach us? My podcast, What Dogs Have Taught Me, dives deep into the educational, practical, and sometimes controversial aspects of understanding our canine companions.  From entertaining stories to practical tips, each episode offers valuable insights into connecting with our canine companions on a deeper level.

FRequently asked questions

  • Hart to Heart stands out due to its specialized focus on rehabilitating fearful and feral dogs. With over a decade of experience in dog rescue and rehabilitation, I offer a unique approach that prioritizes trust-building and relationship-building between dogs and their human companions.

  • Hart to Heart specializes in working with fearful and feral dogs, including those who have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse. I have extensive experience in rehabilitating these dogs to help them lead happy, fulfilling lives. But I can also address a myriad of dog behavior concerns from reactivity, exuberance, mild aggression, and manners.

  • Yes. I prefer to conduct training sessions in-person, particularly at the dog and client's home to address behavior concerns in the dog's environment. However, virtual sessions are available for clients outside the East Mountain/Albuquerque area.

  • Hart to Heart offers in-depth online learning courses specifically designed for dog parents of fearful and feral dogs. These courses provide valuable insights, tips, and techniques to help dog parents and canine professionals better understand and support their canine companions.

  • I’ve developed a specialized training program aimed at improving adoptions, reducing returns, and maintaining high volunteer morale within rescue organizations and shelters. Additionally, I offer workshops, private consulting, and online learning resources tailored to the unique needs of rescue staff and volunteers. I also offer training to help resolve common behavior cocrns of rescued dogs as worshops or private lessons.

  • Hart to Heart workshops cover a wide range of topics related to dog training and rehabilitation, including "Living with Fearful Dogs," "Rescuing Dogs Responsibly," “The Fearful Feral Dog Course” with Canine Human Relationship Institute and more. These workshops provide valuable insights and practical strategies for both novice and experienced canine professionals.

  • Yes, virtual consulting sessions are available for individuals seeking assistance with challenging cases of fearful or feral dogs, pack management, and other dog be Tvior concerns. These sessions provide personalized guidance and support to help address specific behavior concerns effectively.

  • I prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment in my workshops, welcoming dogs with severe fear as demonstration dogs. I welcome and support aMl levelsyof canine professionals and pet parents in my workshops, addressing everyone with empathy and respect. My holistic approach delves into the core being of each dog, offering practical techniques and methods to achieve positive outcomes for both dogs and their human companions.

  • During the initial consultation, I will spend time discussing my approach to training and rehabilitation, teaching dog communication, and addressing any questions or concerns you may have. I will then work with you and your dog to develop a personalized training plan based on your goals and your dog's needs.

  • I employ a variety of positive results training methods tailored to each dog's individual needs. I prioritize non-confrontational techniques that focuses on building trust and communication between dogs and their human companions.

    I bring a variety of tools to each session, depending on the specific needs of the dog and client. These tools are included in the price of the consultation and may include items such as leashes, collars, treats, or training aids.

  • The initial 2 1/2 hr consultation fee is $250 with follow-up sessions charged at $75 per hour. Prices may vary for online consultations or workshops.