Our care is built on a simple but powerful belief: dogs thrive when we understand who they truly are. Every service, interaction, and teaching moment is guided by Kim Brophey's L.E.G.S model - Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self - because caring for dogs means honoring their history, their natural instincts, their surroundings, and their individual personalities. When we look at the whole dog, we can support them in a way that feels safe. respectful, and empowering.

We pair this understanding with positive reinforcement, helping dogs learn through encouragement, choice, and trust. Instead of asking dogs to meet unrealistic expectations, we lower the pressure and allow them to move at a pace that makes sense for them. This shift opens the door for dogs to show us who they are - joyful, curious, sensitive, silly, thoughtful - and gives them the freedom to thrive without fear or frustration.

By embracing the dog in front of us and letting go of perfection, we create a more thoughtful, loving relationship between humans and dogs. One built on empathy, understanding, and mutual respect.

At Barktown, we don't just care for dogs - we celebrate them.