Happily Enriched
A premium canine enrichment service serving the South Bay (San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Saratoga, Campbell, and Milpitas)
Happily Enriched
Satisfy your dog's physical, emotional, and mental needs for a contented life.
Canine Enrichment
What is it?
Canine enrichment is a holistic approach to enhancing the lives of our furry companions by providing them with a diverse range of stimulating experiences, activities, and environments that cater to their unique needs and natural instincts. It encompasses mental, physical, and sensory stimulation, aiming to engage their senses, challenge their minds, and promote their overall well-being.
Why it's important?
Canine enrichment plays a vital role in a dog's life as it goes beyond basic care and addresses their emotional and cognitive needs. By incorporating various forms of enrichment, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, socialization, and physical exercise, we can provide dogs with the mental and physical engagement they require for a fulfilled and balanced life.
Enrichment activities help prevent boredom, which can lead to undesirable behaviors like excessive chewing, digging, or barking. They provide an outlet for natural instincts, such as foraging, problem-solving, and social interaction, which contribute to a dog's mental and emotional development.
In addition, canine enrichment helps reduce stress and anxiety, especially for dogs that may spend extended periods alone or in confined spaces. It promotes relaxation, boosts confidence, and strengthens the bond between dogs and their human companions.
By incorporating regular enrichment into a dog's routine, we actively contribute to their overall happiness, reduce the risk of behavioral issues, and foster a healthier and more harmonious relationship with our four-legged friends.
Fear-Free
As a Fear-Free Certified Professional, we uphold a philosophy that these enriching activities should be enjoyable and devoid of stress, fear, or anxiety. Our curated activities focus on your dog's well-being, enabling them to explore, learn, and grow in a safe and positive environment.
Ethical Approach
We uphold a commitment to providing services that prioritize positive and humane methods of dog training. As such, we reserve the right to decline services to individuals who employ aversive training techniques. Our aim is to ensure the well-being and welfare of all dogs under our care.
We're not just enriching their lives - amplifying their overall health and happiness, creating an improved quality of life that all dogs deserve.
Why I started Happily Enriched?
As a dog owner, finding time to create fun, enriching activities for your pet can be challenging. That's the problem I wanted to solve when I started Happily Enriched. I carefully select the best toys and activities, record what your dog has already used, and consistently add exciting new items to your collection. All to save you time and ensure your furry friend stays engaged and happy. The cherry on top? Everything is delivered to your doorstep, ready for your dog to enjoy.
Services
The Team
Who We Are
Jeff In
Trainer &
Enrichment Coach
Introducing Jeff, a dedicated professional in the realm of dog behavior, whose journey commenced in 2022 as a diligent daycare attendant.
Driven by a genuine passion for understanding canine behavior, Jeff pursued further education at a reputable dog training school, where he honed his skills and expertise.
Today, Jeff collaborates closely with numerous clients, drawing upon his extensive knowledge to foster healthy and harmonious relationships between owners and their beloved pets. His profound appreciation for enrichment stems from firsthand experience, recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing the overall well-being of dogs.
Outside of his professional commitments, Jeff's home serves as a sanctuary for not only his two cherished canine companions but also Oskar, the noble Doberman, and two sleek black feline friends.
Learn More Below.
Frida
Chief Toy Tester
Meet Frida, a remarkable 3-year-old miniature schnauzer hailing from Oklahoma, whose presence has profoundly influenced Jeff's journey into the captivating world of dog behavior. With an insatiable appetite for learning, Frida has embarked on over 35 courses, mastering an impressive repertoire of 50 different cues. Her boundless curiosity extends to playtime, where she has joyously interacted with over 80 diverse enrichment toys.
Currently, Frida's top pick for play is the engaging Snuffle Mats, offering her both mental stimulation and physical activity. When it comes to treats, her discerning palate favors the irresistible flavor of dehydrated mussels. Frida's vibrant personality and eagerness to explore make her an invaluable companion in Jeff's quest for deeper understanding and connection with dogs.
Dali Kikin
Assistant
Introducing Kikin, the delightful 1-year-old miniature schnauzer who found his way home from Arkansas. With a penchant for goofiness, Kikin brings boundless joy to every interaction. Joining Jeff during select client sessions, his friendly demeanor serves as a calming presence, offering reassurance to nervous or shy dogs and fostering a sense of security.
Beyond his role as an emotional support companion, Kikin delights in providing playtime to pups who are still mastering the ropes. His current favorite, the Pupsicle, keeps him entertained for hours, while his ultimate treat indulgence lies in delectable dehydrated shrimp. Kikin's endearing personality and unwavering warmth make him an invaluable asset in Jeff's efforts to create a nurturing and enriching environment for all dogs.
About
The Birth of a Passion
Embarking on the journey of becoming a dog parent in 2020 ignited a profound passion within me for working with animals. As I sought the best life for my beloved pup, Frida, a miniature schnauzer, I discovered the transformative potential of enrichment and desensitizing/counterconditioning. Now, I am dedicated to sharing this invaluable gift with fellow dog parents.
The Story of Frida
Frida, the pup who entered my life, faced her own challenges with increasing fearfulness. To address her reactivity, I delved into the world of enrichment. The progress we made together was nothing short of remarkable. Witnessing the positive impact of enrichment on Frida's well-being inspired me to extend this gift to other dog parents and their furry companions.
Commitment to Learning
Education is the cornerstone of my practice. I am constantly expanding my knowledge of canine behavior, staying at the forefront of advancements in the field. In 2022, I successfully completed BehaviorWorks course, Living and Learning with Animals (LLA) lead by Dr. Susan Friedman. Moreover, as a certified Fear-Free Professional, I prioritize your dog's emotional well-being above all else, never subjecting them to fear, anxiety, or stress.
Certifications and Expertise
I am proud to hold the CDTK certification from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, earned in June 2023. Additionally, I have obtained the Professional Pet Care Certification (March 2023) and the Canine Enrichment Technician Certification (April 2023) from DogNostics, solidifying my expertise in the realms of pet sitting, dog daycare, and dog walking. This diverse experience enriches my understanding and enhances the quality of care and training I provide.
Collaboration and Growth
I am privileged to work alongside an exceptional reward-based trainer, Nancy Le, at In Tune Dog Training in San Jose. Under her mentorship, I am continuously honing my skills and expanding my horizons in the world of dog training.
Dali Kikin: A Cherished Companion
In 2022, I welcomed Dali into my life, a black and silver miniature Schnauzer. Dali became an integral part of my journey in dog training education at CATCH Canine Trainers Academy. Little did I know that Dali would provide me with the quintessential puppy experience I had longed for. Nowadays, Dali effortlessly joins me during my strolls with clients, becoming an invaluable addition to our walks, particularly for those more timid furry friends. His gentle and friendly nature has a remarkable effect, boosting the confidence of pups who may be on the shyer side. Dali's presence creates a harmonious environment, making every walk a delightful and enriching experience for both the dogs and myself.
Let's Connect!
Take the first step towards enriching and satisfying your dog's life. Reach out to me today, and together, we will embark on this wonderful journey of canine enrichment. Let's create a life of joy and fulfillment for your beloved companion!
