Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Birdsong.
Hi Lauren, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up caring for dogs and other animals from a very young age, and I’ve always worked with dogs in some capacity. I found myself consistently looking for side jobs that enabled me to spend time with dogs. Dog Buddy came about when I realized I was spending time working in jobs that didn’t quite align with how I preferred to engage with dogs, and I knew it was time to branch out on my own. I began working at a facility that focused on rehabilitating dogs who had significant trauma, histories of abuse, or just a general lack of social skills. Unfortunately, our society is designed to prioritize human preferences over our dogs’ needs, and that tends to create a variety of behavioral issues. The work we were doing at The Zen Dog was finally something I felt completely aligned with the importance of addressing the core of a dog’s behavior. We operated with each dog’s strengths and challenges at the forefront. When the facility closed during the pandemic, we had a group of clients with nowhere to send their dogs for socialization (many of these dogs were not able to attend a typical daycare setting) and a staff of people who were suddenly out of work. Expanding Dog Buddy’s services from standard walks and pet sits to personalized socialization enabled us to continue working with these dogs and further their progress.
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?
One of our main challenges has been acquiring a physical space to conduct socials. A public park or dog park has far too many uncontrollable outside factors that compromise a dog’s progress, and many of the dogs we work with would not be safe socializing in this type of setting. Finding a quiet and enclosed yard space to work in has been our biggest hurdle.
As you know, we’re big fans of Dog Buddy LA. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
While we do still offer standard dog walking and sitting, Dog Buddy specializes in private socials for all dogs, but especially dogs whose needs aren’t able to be met by a daycare or boarding facility. For example, dogs who didn’t receive proper exposure to other dogs as puppies, or dogs who exhibit reactivity or aggression often need extra planning and dedicated one-on-one attention. Many folks don’t feel confident or know where to start when socializing their dog in a safe way, and that’s where we can help. Our socials are structured around each dog’s needs and capabilities, with the goal of strengthening their social skills, expanding their circle of dog friends, and conducting training sessions with their people to help build trust in their relationships at home. Dogs learn best from other dogs!
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Anyone looking for relationship based, force free training and socialization can contact us through our website at dogbuddyla.com or by calling/texting us at 323.487.1152. Follow our doggo friends on IG @dogbuddyla !
Pricing:
- Pricing varies depending on service and the needs of each dog
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dogbuddyla.com
- Instagram: dogbuddyla
Image Credits
headshot shot by Daryl Jim Photography
