Mindful Training

Hippo 🦛💗🫶🫂

Hippo was so much more than a client dog to us—he was the very first dog we ever trained. In so many ways, he helped shape who we are today.

A Cane Corso & Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix with the softest, most sensitive soul… Hippo taught us patience, compassion, and what it really means to meet a dog where they are.

As a puppy, Hippo battled parvo, which deeply impacted his health and early development. Because of that, he spent time isolated from other dogs—so getting to be part of his world as he learned “how to dog” was something we’ll always hold close. From building his foundational obedience to spending our days with him through training and pet sitting, we watched him grow

He was so deeply loved by his mom, Laurie—an incredible veterinarian who gave him everything she had from the very beginning. It meant so much to us that she trusted us to be part of his life, to help enrich his days with structure, play, companionship, and care while she was out helping so many other animals in our city.

Over the years, Hippo became part of our rhythm—40-minute sessions, long days, weeks, months, and years of time spent together. It’s hard to put into words what that kind of consistency and connection turns into… but it’s something we will always be grateful for.

Hippo was recently diagnosed with cancer, and it progressed quickly. His passing this past Monday came as a shock to us, but it was a decision made with deep love and intention—to give him peace and freedom from pain.

Our hearts are heavy knowing we won’t get another moment with him. But we feel incredibly lucky to have had so many.

We love you, Hippo. Thank you for everything you gave us. 🤍

Feels great to be seen 😌 👀 🐶 🐾

We take dogs on adventures! Ask us about our training walks.