Today we’d like to introduce you to Blake Forkner.
Hi Blake, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey into the world of dog training began in 2012 while I was a college student in North Carolina, pursuing my dream of becoming a veterinarian. Eager to gain experience in the field, I sought out shadowing opportunities and stumbled upon a local German Shepherd breeder and trainer. Here, I was exposed to the fundamentals of pet dog training and even dabbled in decoy work for Schutzhund, a protection sport. It was here that my passion for training dogs was ignited as I learned how to communicate effectively with these intelligent animals and build a strong rapport based on trust and respect.
After graduating, I returned to my hometown of Savannah, Georgia, where I landed a job as a veterinary assistant. It was during my time at the clinic that I crossed paths with another experienced dog trainer who inspired me to further pursue my passion. Eager to expand my knowledge and skillset, I began shadowing under her guidance, soaking up invaluable insights and techniques along the way. Through this mentorship, I refined my training methods and gained a deeper understanding of canine behavior, setting the stage for a fulfilling career in dog training.
Each step of my journey has been instrumental in shaping me into the dog trainer I am today. From the foundational skills learned at the German Shepherd breeder’s facility to the hands-on experience gained through shadowing under a seasoned professional, every encounter has contributed to my evolution in this field. My commitment to continuous learning and growth remains unwavering, driving me to provide the best possible training for both service dogs and pet companions alike.
After working in the veterinary field for several years, I was diagnosed with dysautonomia, an autoimmune condition that affects my heart and blood pressure which ultimately caused me to change my career trajectory. It was during this challenging time that I discovered my true passion for training service dogs.
Beginning with my own dog, I delved into the world of service dog training by attending workshops that covered a wide range of topics, from the basics to more specialized skills like mobility assistance and scent work. This journey sparked a deep interest in the complexities of training service dogs and motivated me to explore the field further.
Immersing myself in the realm of service dog training, I dedicated myself to learning everything I could about the process. I devoured every service dog training book available, seeking out different perspectives and approaches to enrich my knowledge. The more I learned, the more inspired I became to refine my skills and tackle more advanced training techniques. Through dedication and perseverance, I honed my expertise in various aspects of service dog training, including advanced public access skills, to prepare dogs for real-world scenarios.
Equipped with a solid foundation in service dog training, I eventually felt confident enough to venture out on my own and share my knowledge with others. My journey from a career in a different field to becoming a service dog trainer was transformative, instilling in me a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. This experience not only allowed me to turn my passion into a profession but also provided me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping individuals with disabilities lead more independent and fulfilling lives with the assistance of well-trained service dogs.
In 2019, I founded Meika’s Helping Paws in honor of my beloved service dog, Meika. She was not just a dog but my heart dog, who had been with me through every step of my training journey. Meika taught me patience, unconditional love, and the importance of perseverance. Her passing left a void in my heart, but her legacy lives on through the work we do at Meika’s Helping Paws. Our mission is to assist owners in training their own service dogs, offering them the opportunity to experience the same life-changing bond and support that I had with Meika.
Avalon, Meika’s successor, has taken on the role of my service dog with grace and enthusiasm. Through working with Avalon, I’ve learned that each dog has its own unique strengths, challenges, and personality. It’s crucial not to compare one dog to another but to appreciate and nurture their individuality. Avalon has not only helped me in my daily life but has also inspired me to be a better trainer and advocate for the service dog community. She embodies the spirit of Meika’s Helping Paws and continues to touch the lives of those we serve.
Today, Meika’s Helping Paws is a thriving small business dedicated to empowering individuals to train their own service dogs. We believe that through proper training and guidance, owners can enhance their independence and freedom. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring that both the owner and dog develop a strong bond built on trust and mutual respect. We are committed to upholding the legacy of Meika by providing top-notch service dog training that transforms lives and fosters deep, fulfilling partnerships between humans and their canine companions.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the significant challenges I faced on my journey to becoming a service dog trainer was being diagnosed with dysautonomia. This diagnosis forced me to take a step back and re-evaluate my approach to training. Suddenly, tasks that were once simple and routine became much more challenging. However, this obstacle ended up being a valuable learning experience. It allowed me to empathize with my clients who may also be facing their own personal or health-related challenges. By going through this setback, I gained a deeper understanding of the importance of patience, adaptability, and perseverance in both training service dogs and supporting their owners.
Although the diagnosis of dysautonomia presented a temporary setback in my journey, it ultimately strengthened my ability to connect with clients on a personal level. Sharing my own struggles and experiences with them created a bond based on empathy and understanding. This connection goes beyond just the training sessions—it builds a sense of trust and camaraderie that is essential in the service dog training process. Through this obstacle, I gained a new perspective on the impact of personal struggles on training outcomes and the importance of a supportive and understanding approach in this field.
In the end, the challenge of being diagnosed with dysautonomia not only made me a better service dog trainer but also a more compassionate and effective communicator. It taught me the value of resilience and the power of turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. By sharing my story and connecting with clients on a deeper level, I am better equipped to support them in their own challenges and empower them to succeed in their service dog training journey. Embracing obstacles as opportunities for learning and connection is a fundamental lesson that has shaped my approach to training and has enriched the relationships I build with both dogs and their owners.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Meika’s Helping Paws?
As a specialist in training service dogs, I am excited to offer a variety of effective methods to train dogs to assist individuals with disabilities. Whether it’s alerting their person to low blood sugar, responding to seizures, or assisting a person in a wheelchair, service dogs play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for their handlers. Our program is designed to cater to the unique needs of each individual and their service dog, ensuring a successful and fulfilling partnership.
With the launch of our online training program in summer 2024, we aim to make our expertise more accessible to a wider audience. Through a combination of instructional videos, live webinars, interactive modules, and personalized consultations, participants will have the flexibility to learn at their own pace and convenience. Our goal is to empower individuals to train their service dogs effectively, strengthening the bond between them and maximizing the dog’s potential to assist with specific tasks relevant to the handler’s disability.
Training a service dog is not only about obedience and task work but also about building trust, understanding, and communication between the dog and its handler. From basic obedience commands to advanced tasks tailored to individual needs, our program covers a comprehensive curriculum to equip both the dog and the handler with the necessary skills for a successful partnership. By enrolling in our online service dog training program, participants will not only gain valuable knowledge and practical skills but also become part of a supportive community dedicated to promoting independence, inclusion, and well-being for individuals with disabilities.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is playing with my family dogs, Blue and Sirius, both Basenjis.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.meikashelpingpaws.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meikas.helping.paws/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meikashelpingpaws
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBqK7pXfVBcmcGFCdnLKItw
- TikTok: @meikashelpingpaws
