We recently connected with Suzy Frigo and have shared our conversation below.

Suzy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

My foundation in animal health and behavior was intertwined with the rhythm of my daily life growing up. I was introduced to dog training by one of the best teachers I could have asked for – my mother. Her dedication to breeding and training Labrador Retrievers was not just a profession for her; it was a calling that resonated deeply within me. And as I grew, so did my understanding and passion for animal behavior. Each dog that entered our home brought with it a new set of challenges and learnings, shaping my perception of the profound bond between humans and dogs. This experience was further enriched by my professional education in animal health and behavior.

However, the true depth of my journey into dog training and behavior became apparent through my experiences as a parent. Raising five wonderful children, three of whom have unique medical needs, opened my eyes to the challenges and triumphs of navigating the world with disabilities and neurodiversity. Witnessing their interactions with our dogs, I saw a special kind of magic – an unspoken understanding and a deep relationship. This intimate view into the power of the human-animal bond in the context of disability and neurodiversity fueled a growing passion within me.
My professional path, too, paralleled this personal journey. In my work as a perinatal professional, I honed skills in trauma-informed care, inclusivity, and advocacy. These skills, alongside my background in dog training, formed a unique marriage of expertise. I began to see a gap in the services available for individuals with disabilities and neurodiversity – there was a need for inclusive dog training that not only focused on the animal but also on the unique dynamics of their human partners.

I saw an opportunity to blend my two worlds – dog training and supporting individuals with diverse needs. I envisioned a service that wasn’t just about teaching commands, but about creating an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of their age or abilities, could experience the joy and support of a well-trained canine companion.

The idea for Everybody’s Doggy was born from this blend of personal and professional insights. I envisioned a place where families, especially those navigating the complexities of disability and neurodiversity, could find support, understanding, and tailored dog training strategies. This organization wasn’t just going to be about teaching dogs; it was about fostering relationships, about understanding and embracing the diversity of experiences.

What excited me most about this venture was its potential to make a real difference in people’s lives. I wasn’t just solving a problem; I was creating a community of empathy and understanding, a place where the bond between a person and their dog could flourish regardless of the challenges they faced.

Every step in founding Everybody’s Doggy was taken with the conviction that this organization was not just necessary, but vital. It was a culmination of a life’s journey and a response to a calling that had been whispering to me through the years. It’s a journey that continues to be fueled by the joys and challenges of raising my children, the wagging tails of dogs we train, and the smiles of families who find a newfound sense of companionship and support through our work.

Each day, as I see the impact we are making, I am reminded of why this endeavor is not just worthwhile, but essential. It’s a journey that continues to evolve, fueled by ongoing learning and a relentless commitment to understanding and fostering the unique bond between diverse individuals and their dogs.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Everybody’s Doggy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering thriving relationships between people and their dogs. We offer extensive training and behavior support, accessible to everyone through sliding-scale pricing. Our team is not only certified in dog training and behavior but is also committed to continuous learning. At the heart of our training philosophy is kindness and respect for both people and dogs, employing positive reinforcement and humane methods. We provide a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for all to participate fully. Our range of resources, from virtual self-study courses to hands-on training at our facility, is designed to deepen the bond between everybody and their doggy.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building a reputation in the dog training market largely depends on consistently delivering high-quality, effective training services. Following science-based, positive reinforcement techniques that resonate well with both dogs and owners is crucial. By prioritizing the well-being and happiness of the dogs, and ensuring that the training methods are enjoyable and effective, I aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of my clients and their dogs. This approach not only garners satisfaction and trust from my existing clients but also encourages word-of-mouth referrals which is an invaluable asset in this community-driven industry. Additionally, maintaining a strong commitment to ongoing education and staying updated with the latest training methodologies shows my dedication to the field. This commitment not only enhances the quality of my services but also positions Everybody’s Doggy as a reliable organization. A combination of quality service, ethical practices, and continuous learning helps create a solid reputation in the dog training market.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

To manage a team effectively and maintain high morale, I focus on fostering a culture of open and effective communication. I aim to encourage team members and board members to share their ideas and concerns, ensuring they feel heard and understood. This approach not only aids in identifying and addressing any issues promptly but also promotes a sense of inclusivity and value among the team.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.everybodysdoggy.org
• Instagram: instagram.com/everybodysdoggy
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/everybodysdoggy