Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Yahnke.
Hi Holly, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have grown up loving animals. Coming into adulthood and getting my own pets I wanted to find training options that I felt good about, something my pets would enjoy, and something that would build our relationship in a positive and enjoyable way. It wasn’t easy to find that back then, but eventually I stumbled upon a great positive reinforcement trainer and started taking her classes. I fell in love and was lucky enough to be able to shadow her and learn from her. I eventually became her assistant trainer, then a lead trainer, and now I own Unleashed Behavior and Training Services.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Just starting to take over a business during Covid was scary. Of course there will be bumps in the road for most anything, but overall, I really feel like this journey was meant to be. Everything fell in to place at just the right times and I have made many great friends along the way as well as had fantastic clients and met the most amazing dogs.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am both a CPDT-ka and a Certified Family Dog Mediator. I own a small business that helps pet owners build strong relationships with their pups through positive reinforcement training, helping them learn how to live a fulfilling and enriching life, for both ends of the leash, with their furry companion. I help people with all things puppy, including how to socialize them well. I teach basic life skills and also help people will many other things about navigating life with their pup. Lastly, I help dogs that may feel stress, and oftentimes their stressed humans as well. I do mostly in-home visits, but also teach some classes. I come with empathy as well as straight forward and easy instructions. I keep the animal’s wellbeing in mind while navigating training plans. Even though I already hold top certifications, I continue to educate myself to keep on top the best new techniques. This industry is not regulated, but I run my business as if it were. I really care about the quality of my time spent with clients. I am most proud of finding something that I love doing so much, something that is so fulfilling, and with knowing all the lives I help along the way.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
There are many great groups and people out there to learn from and to be supported by.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.unleashedtrainers.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thereisadifference
