Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Rogers.
Hi Shelly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
A Divine Calling: The Journey of A2J Happy Tails K9 Training
In July 2021, at the age of 55, I embarked on a journey that would transform my life and the lives of countless others. It began with a gentle whisper, a divine calling that stirred deep within me, guiding my heart toward a purpose yet to be fully understood. My mission was clear: to make service dogs accessible to those in need, especially children with autism, and to do so without the barriers of financial strain. This mission crystallized in the name of my organization, A2J Happy Tails K9 Training—All To Jesus.
As I delved into this world, I found myself inextricably linked to the profound experiences of both children and dogs. These connections were more than just training sessions; they became moments of revelation. Working with children on the autism spectrum opened my eyes to a world filled with unique perspectives, challenges, and triumphs. I realized that every interaction carried the potential for transformation—both for the children and for the dogs being trained.
Through their eyes, I began to see the beauty in simplicity. A child’s laughter intertwined with the wag of a dog’s tail. A learning breakthrough mirrored in the playful antics of a puppy. It became clear that these two worlds shared a remarkable synergy—a partnership brimming with possibilities.
At A2J Happy Tails K9 Training, I harnessed this connection to develop a specialized training program tailored to children with autism and their families. Each child brings their own reality, shedding light on the richness of their experiences, while the dogs embody pure instinct and understanding. Together, they form bonds that transcend language—an unspoken agreement of trust, companionship, and love.
My faith and perseverance became the fuel for this mission. Each dog trained was not just a service animal; they were beacons of hope, guiding children toward greater independence and confidence. The commitment to ensuring these amazing creatures were accessible to families from all walks of life stemmed from an unwavering belief in laying down our lives for others, all dedicated to His glory.
In each session, whether through the careful training of a puppy or a quiet moment of connection with a child, I witnessed the transformative power of companionship. As the dogs learned to respond to commands, the children gained a sense of purpose, their faces lighting up with pride. It was magical—the way these dogs seemed to unlock hidden potential, offering a sense of freedom that words alone could not express.
I understood that my role was not just to train dogs but to foster a sanctuary—a safe space for hope and healing. The goal was to bridge the gap between hearts and homes, where love and understanding flourished, all in service to Him.
As this path continues to unfold, the mission of A2J Happy Tails K9 Training remains clear: to empower, to inspire, and to transform lives through the bonds formed between children and their service dogs. Every wagging tail and cheerful bark is a reminder of the difference that can be made together.
With each passing day, I am grateful for the journey that has shaped me and those I serve. I look forward to forging new connections—one meaningful relationship at a time—and embracing the beauty of this extraordinary adventure. In this calling, I have found my heart’s true purpose: a mission to not only change lives but to witness the profound power of love through the eyes of the children served and the dogs trained, giving All To Jesus.
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?
The journey to establishing A2J Happy Tails K9 Training has not been entirely smooth, but every challenge has contributed to our growth and deepened our commitment to our mission. Here are some key struggles we encountered along the way:
1. Financial Barriers: One of the most significant challenges was finding ways to keep our services affordable for families in need. Developing a sustainable financial model while maintaining accessibility requires creativity and determination.
2. Training Challenges: Every dog is unique, and training often encountered hurdles. Some dogs took longer to learn specific tasks, and adapting our methods to meet each dog’s individual needs was both a challenge and a necessity.
3. Navigating Regulations: Understanding the legal requirements surrounding service dogs and ensuring compliance with all regulations took time and effort. This involved a steep learning curve but was essential for building a reputable program.
4. Emotional Weight: Working with children on the autism spectrum and their families can be emotionally taxing. Witnessing their struggles and challenges often weighed heavily on my heart, but it also fueled my passion for making a difference. Currently working with a 4 year old child with stage 4 cancer, training her companion, weighs on your heart.
5. Building Community Support: Establishing connections with local organizations, partners, and potential clients required patience and persistence. It was crucial to raise awareness and educate the community about the value of service dogs.
6. Balancing Personal Life: As the founder, balancing the demands of running a business with personal life and family responsibilities has been a constant juggling act. Finding that equilibrium is essential for both personal well-being and the success of the organization.
Despite these obstacles, each struggle has strengthened our resolve and fostered a deeper understanding of our purpose. With faith, perseverance, and a commitment to serving, we continue to overcome challenges and find joy in every step of the journey. We were finally able to train and donate our first fully trained service dog to a family that needed one for their 6 year old daughter with autism. That was a lot of work, but thanks the family that donated a dog, and we took the time to train the dog, the child that needed the dog was revealed and we were able to bless her and her family with a working companion for their daughter. We hope to get to a point to be able to do this once a quarter.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At A2J Happy Tails K9 Training, our work centers around an unwavering commitment to serving families in need, particularly those with children on the autism spectrum. We specialize in training service dogs tailored to the unique challenges and triumphs these children face. Our mission is deeply rooted in faith and compassion, driven by the belief that every child deserves the transformative companionship of a service dog, regardless of their financial situation.
A recent highlight of our journey came when a family graciously offered a dog for training, trusting that this pup would eventually find its way to a child who needed it the most. At that moment, we had no idea who that child would be, but we firmly believed that the Lord would reveal His plans in His perfect timing, as He is always faithful to those in need.
This year, we were blessed to train and ultimately donate our first service dog to a remarkable six-year-old child with autism. This family, having faced financial challenges, was unable to secure the support of a service dog. Witnessing the transformation during training was deeply moving. As the dog learned to assist and comfort, we saw the child’s eyes light up with newfound hope and joy.
What sets A2J Happy Tails apart is our holistic approach to training, which creates lasting connections between children with autism and their service dogs. Each training session focuses not only on commands but also on fostering emotional bonds. We recognize that these relationships transcend traditional training; they are about trust, partnership, and mutual growth.
We take pride in our specialized programs, designed to empower both children and dogs. These programs promote skill development, emotional support, and companionship, equipping families with the tools necessary to navigate daily challenges. Our mission is clear: to ensure that no child goes without the tools and love they need to thrive.
Looking ahead, our goals extend far beyond this one donation. We envision expanding our facilities and resources to enrich the lives of many more families in the future. With faith as our foundation, we’re confident that the Lord will provide the means to fulfill this purpose. We believe that by working together, we can create a sanctuary for hope and healing, where love and understanding flourish.
As we continue this journey, we remain committed to transforming lives through our work. Each act of kindness, every wagging tail, and each new family we help reaffirms our mission. We are excited for the future and devoted to being vessels of change in the lives of many.
Together, we can continue to spread hope and create meaningful connections, one paw at a time.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a mentor and building a strong network can seem daunting. However, I have discovered that the foundational element to successful networking is love. Love—authentic, selfless, and genuine—serves as the glue that seals all bonds of connection, whether it’s with individuals, families, or even the dogs we train.
1. Cultivating Authentic Relationships
The essence of networking is building genuine relationships. I have found that when I approach others with love and sincerity, they are more likely to reciprocate that warmth. Whether reaching out for mentorship or connecting with fellow service dog trainers, expressing a genuine interest in their work and challenges fosters an environment of trust and openness. This creates a space where ideas can flow freely, and collaboration can thrive.
2. Listening and Learning
One of the most powerful ways to connect with potential mentors is through active listening. When I engage in conversations, especially with experienced individuals in my field, I strive to listen more than I speak. This not only shows my respect for their wisdom but also allows me to learn from their experiences. By expressing love and appreciation for their insights, I create a bridge that invites further dialogue and mentorship.
3. Sharing Your Passion
When networking, sharing your passion can be contagious. By openly discussing my mission at A2J Happy Tails K9 Training and the love that fuels my work, I invite others to connect on a deeper level. Passion is often magnetic; when people see the love pouring into your mission, they are more inclined to support it, mentor you, or offer assistance.
4. Creating a Community of Support
Finding your tribe is essential. By expressing love and uplifting others, I have created a community of like-minded individuals and families, each invested in one another’s successes. This camaraderie not only strengthens individual connections but also expands our networks collectively. When love is the driving impetus, networking becomes a shared journey rather than a solitary quest.
5. Paying it Forward
Lastly, it’s important to remember that mentorship isn’t just about receiving—it’s also about giving back. By offering support or advice to others, especially those new to the field, I foster relationships rooted in love and mutual respect. This reciprocal approach not only strengthens my network but also reinforces the idea that love and connection are central to all our journeys.
I firmly believe, in a world often marked by strife, that love never fails. It has been my guiding principle in establishing connections and seeking mentorship. By leading with love—whether in training our service dogs or engaging with families in need—I have transformed networking into a meaningful and fulfilling experience. The relationships I’ve built are not just contacts; they are bonds that nurture growth and inspire change.
As you explore your own journey, I encourage you to embrace love as your guiding force. You may find that, just like the dogs we train, the connections you cultivate will lead to extraordinary transformations in your life and the lives of others.
Pricing:
- $1500-$30,000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://happytailstrainers.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a2j_happytailstraining/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EC26dCg1H/
- Other: https://www.bbb.org/central-texas/review/1000226228/
