Happy Anniversary, HEX!

This December marks the four year anniversary of a dream coming true for me.  When I founded HEX (then known as Higher Expectations!), I never imagined the journey it would take me on.  It took a long time, and a lot of trial & error to get the perfect team assembled, and I am so sincerely grateful for every success, and every flop, every person who let me down, and every person who picked me back up.  It’s been a rollercoaster, for sure, and an amazing journey!

I’d like to take this opportunity to lift a glass & cheers my best friend & business partner, Kim Chatha.  HEX took a lot of different avenues before truly getting on the path we were meant to travel, and when you came along in November, 2013, everything changed.  You proved to me that perseverance pays off, and when you lettered your truck, I knew you were really in it for the long haul.  I’ve watched you come such a long way, and really grow your talent, not only as a trainer, but as an advisor… to clients, to colleagues… to me.  I admire your strength, and I love your unapologetic attitude.  Couldn’t be happier we found each other & together, have brought HEX to where it is today.  Happy anniversary, babes!

A cheers to Greg, who has been such an asset to HEX’s training programs, especially where socialization is concerned.  If your dog “doesn’t like men,” this is the guy for the job – because it doesn’t get bigger or badder than our Greg!  I’ve had the privilege of working side-by-side with this guy on multiple occasions, and this is a person to pay attention to.  I’m so proud to have you on the team, Greg, an integral part, and I think you have found your calling as an immensely talented trainer who – like the rest of us – is not afraid to tell it like it is.  Happy anniversary, & I thank you!

​Now, let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the last four years…

Introducing one of HEX's most dedicated canine students & her family, LACEY (proud to say) CGC'd!

"I am so grateful I found HEX dogs!  We got our rescue, Lacey, when she was three months and even though my husband and daughter were ready for it, I had many months of being extremely stressed, unhappy, and just overall had a very hard transition to having a puppy as I had never had one before.  I was afraid, frustrated, and didn't feel we were bonding well.  Right away after emailing Cassie, I knew HEX was the place for us.  I had no idea what we would do but they were willing to work with me who needed so much confidence and to stop crying almost daily and I knew I was ready to do whatever they asked.  

"First time we met Greg, I cried.  I was so frustrated and he said it was "OK" but it had to stop as Lacey was feeding off of it.  Before jumping to frustration and tears, take a deep breath and shoulders down. I thought "of course!" but never had been able to do it.  With our first short meeting, I had a better way to walk Lacey and manage some things that were difficult for me.  Already I felt a bit better.  We took Basic O and it was fabulous!  I needed someone to tell me what they saw, what I was doing right and what needed work.  Our last place always said I was doing it right, and when I look back that wasn't helpful as it didn't help me learn from my mistakes.  I learned in our class with Cassie to take charge, let the dog know I am the one to listen to, not give in, give praise when needed, and not to be afraid or nervous when she did something out of sorts. 

"Basic O ended and we are now in CGC [passed as of this writing -CS] and I'm thrilled.  Our whole house is calmer, I'm calmer, the dog is calmer, we're all happier.  Lacey listens to commands and walks beautifully now on our nightly outings.  She and I have a bond now that I really don't think would have happened had we not stated at HEX.  HEX is committed to helping us and I'm committed to doing my training process, which has made our bond even closer.   If you saw me in August with tears and how close we were to giving her up, you'd be amazed at how it's changed.  I want to cuddle with her, get kisses, see her wiggly butt say "Hi" to me when I come home, and we even took family pictures with her in them.  I can say we now have a family that has a family dog and I admit...I just love her with all my heart."

I am so very proud to call these guys clients, and honestly, HEX Family.  Talk about dedication.  Megan really overcame a lot with this dog who was overwhelming her to developing the most awesome relationship.  They are enrolled in Rocking Dog set to begin this Sunday, and if you had met them in the beginning... lol... this is MAJOR.  Couldn't be more proud of you guys & I know your Pa couldn't either.  

Congratulations to Lacey & family on her recent Canine Good Citizen certification!  I know it meant a lot to many... including me ;)