Today we’d like to introduce you to Leah Taylor.
Hi Leah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I had an amazing childhood and lived next to my grandparents. My Grandpa had several litters of Beagle puppies over the years, and I spent every opportunity I could watching and playing with them and learning to care for them. From the time I was two years old, there were always multiple friendly dogs who were a part of my family, and they were present no matter what we were doing.
When I was eight years old, I experienced every little girl’s dream come true, and I got a pony for Christmas. I quickly learned the meaning of real responsibility and just how much-domesticated animals depend on us. I carried 5-gallon buckets with two hands from the house to the barn in the middle of winter as half of the water sloshed out and onto me. I spent countless joyful hours with that little red pony, and she never told my secrets! I joined a 4H club and devoted ten years to training and showing horses, and that is where I became fascinated with how animals learn. Without even realizing it I developed skills that I still use today.
Fast forward to my teenaged years. I experienced deep grief for the first time in my life when the boy I loved was killed in a terrible accident. He left behind a Chocolate Lab, and she became my best friend and the reason I made it through that season. Her presence was my only comfort, and it was then that I learned the power of a dog’s love. When I left for college, she would stare out the window until I was out of sight, and she was always there to greet me with a happy tail when I returned. I moved away, and I knew it was better for her to stay as I focused on school. I got a law degree, passed the bar, and got a job at a law firm. For many years I did not have a dog in my home, and I always felt like I was missing something.
Fast forward again to my late 20’s. I was on my way out of an abusive relationship when I got my first Golden Retriever, Daisy, who I still have today. At that time, I had left the law firm, and I was working as an operating engineer building new pipelines. Daisy travelled the country with me, sleeping while I drove and keeping watch as I would sleep in the car at truck stops along the way to our destinations. Any intrusive thoughts I had or negative feelings I have ever felt were quickly interrupted by her pure joy of being alive and with me and ready to do whatever it was as long as we were together. She is the truest friend, best companion, and most incredible partner, and thinking about how much I treasure her often brings me to tears.
One summer I was sitting in a hotel room in Texas questioning my entire life. I was no longer satisfied with the lifestyle that my work offered. In fact, I don’t believe I was ever truly satisfied with anything I had done in my life at that point. I looked over at Daisy and thought, “What if I could make a living helping people experience what it’s like to have the relationship with their dog that I have with her?” I really wanted people to know how it felt to have that kind bond and understanding with their dog. And although Daisy was my initial inspiration, I reflected on my life, and in all of the happiest and hardest times and biggest learning moments, there was an animal I loved.
So, with some encouragement, I left Texas, and I found a school that would give me the knowledge, experience, and certifications to make my dream come to life. Daisy and I attended the school together, which fortified the bond we have and taught me how to utilize her unique personality to demonstrate concepts that are challenging to explain.
At the conclusion of our class, I accepted a job with the school and moved close by to work as a trainer and instructor. Ultimately it was not a good fit, but this time I knew without a doubt that training dogs is my calling, and I was not going to stop. That is when my business was born!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I face the typical challenges of a new business. Sometimes I struggle to ensure that I am managing all aspects of the business while also keeping a work-life balance. It is tough being the CEO, secretary, social media guru, and everything in between while consistently exceeding client expectations- my first priority. This business is my baby that I want to nurture at all times, but I’m learning to make time for self-care so that I can be the very best for owners and their dogs. I am very critical of myself and my own worst enemy at times. I am learning to trust the process, believe in myself, and appreciate the incredible gift I have been given.
Perhaps my biggest struggle has been finding my place in the world, or rather learning that not fitting in isn’t a bad thing, joyfully forging my own path, and staying focused on my goals. Through every season of my life, I have met darkness and destruction. My mom once told me that I am this little ball of fire, and everywhere I go some people want to steal my light for themselves. But what I have discovered is that my fire consumes darkness and makes some people uncomfortable because it exposes them, so they want to snuff it out. So, for me, it has been a journey of learning to walk in authenticity and not be bothered by those who are uncomfortable with my presence but grateful for the opportunity to grow in new places. I have found more fireballs along the way who have helped fuel my flame, and I love them dearly for sharing their light to help mine shine brighter!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I offer professional dog training services in the form of board and train programs and private lessons. I also teach puppy preschool classes for very young dogs to get them started out on the right paw. My professional certifications include Basic Obedience, Advanced Obedience, Behavior Modification, Puppy Development, Utility, Tracking, Scent Detection, Personal Protection, Retrieval, and Assistance. I welcome all breeds and ages, and I also help owners with multiple dogs. Whether you simply desire nice leash manners or you are dealing with more serious issues, I can help!
Many people come for my off-leash program to allow their dog more freedom while also ensuring peace of mind. Most recently, I have started offering safe transport services to be more accessible to clients who may feel a bit out of reach. If you want to train with me, I will make it happen! Daisy and I have been working on scent detection, and we will be offering tracking services in the near future.
The thing that sets me apart from other trainers is my personal touch. Before training, I conduct a thorough evaluation to assess the individual dog’s temperament and personality, discuss training goals, and develop an understanding of any behavioral issues owners may be experiencing. I tailor my training programs to meet the needs of each unique dog and owner.
I understand how hard it can be for clients to leave their dogs, and I never want them to worry. During training, I make sure to provide frequent updates to keep them in the loop and share exciting details about their dogs’ progress throughout training. I live on-site, so I can monitor the dogs at all times, and they train in a home environment which helps them make a smooth transition back to their owners.
At the completion of a training program, I give clients a fun graduation video demonstrating everything their dog has learned. I want owners to truly understand their unique dogs in order to have the most fulfilling relationship possible, so I include lessons in my boarding programs to ensure consistent communication and eliminate confusion.
I take pride in providing guidance and support long after a dog completes a training program. Living situations, dogs, and owners can change over time, so I offer refresher training for the life of the dog to assist with training maintenance and troubleshooting problem areas. I am always available for a phone call. When you train with me, you really do become a member of the pack! I have a deep love and passion for what I do, and after following many career paths, I really can say I do this because I want to, not because I must.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love the simplicity and wholesomeness of Conesville. Time seems to slow down here, and it feels safe and peaceful. The people are kind-hearted and truly genuine. It is like modern-day Mayberry! The only downfall is that it is not closer to some of my amazing friends and clients!
Pricing:
- $50 Evaluation applied towards training program
- Training Program costs are discussed during the evaluation, and programs are recommended based on the needs of the individual dog and owner
Contact Info:
- Website: www.legallyunleashed.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legallyunleashed
Image Credits
Elizabeth Rennicker
Brittany Varnes
Brad Robeson
