INLET
DISTRICT LIVING
COMMUNITY
MAGAZINE
INSIDE
Discover the people, places, and pets in & around Inlet District, Port Moody
Hello Neighbours!
Every issue of Inlet District Living is a reminder that there is always something new to discover close to home. Whether it's meeting someone doing inspiring work, finding your next favourite local business, or learning about an event you didn't know was happening, there's no shortage of reasons to get out and enjoy our neighbourhood this summer!
In Issue 7, we're celebrating creativity, learning, and the people helping our community thrive Meet a talented artist inspiring environmental awareness through local art, discover a welcoming space where children and adults of all ages can be inspired through the arts, and learn how an independent school is helping neurodiverse children reach their full potential.
You'll also discover a newly opened Finnish sauna offering a chance to relax and recharge in Port Moody, along with an award-winning local butcher sharing their top ten favourite BBQ picks, featuring quality meats sourced from independent BC farmers
Check out local businesses, services, and events in our vibrant Marketplace, and find practical ideas for creating positive change in business in our Coaching Corner
And of course, don't miss this issue's Feature Petan intelligent and playful Miniature American Shepherd with a penchant for cheese and a winning smile.
Thank you for making Inlet District Living part of your summer We hope this issue inspires you to try something new, support local, and enjoy everything our neighbourhood has to offer.
Sincerely,
KatherineHall
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
INLET DISTRICT
L I V I N G
Inlet District Living recognizes and respectfully acknowledges the ancestral and shared traditional territory of the kʷikʷə
əm (Kwikwetlem), qicəy (Katzie), qiqéyt (Qayqayt), q ʼʷa:nƛʼ ən (Kwantlen), Stó:lō (Sto:lo), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam) Peoples. We extend appreciation to live and work on this territory.
Cover Art
“Save the Birds” by Georgina Avila / Georgie Dan
Katherine Hall
Contributing Photographers / Artists
Georgina Avila / Georgie Dan
Carlos Navarro
Scott Graham Place des Arts
Taryn Barker
The Little Butcher team
Brian Cady
Shandess Griffin
Greater Heights Learning Academy
Olivia Lam
Katherine Hall
Katherine Hall
Contributing Writers
Georgina Avila / Georgie Dan
Natalie Mead Place des Arts
Star Horn
Greater Heights Learning Academy
Kathleen Jeffrey
Art Out Side Festival team
Taryn Barker
Brian Cady
Olivia Lam
Katherine Hall
ApexFencingAcademyisrunbyOlympicFencers, EricBoisse,OlympicChampion&MonicaPeterson, CanadianOlympian&multipletimenationalchampion, whoareexcitedtobringthesportoffencingtoour communitywithclassesavailableinEnglishandFrench!
Love for Inlet District
I love that Port Moody feels like a place where nature and creativity coexist beautifully From the shoreline and forests to its vibrant arts community, there is a sense of inspiration everywhere The city embraces public art and community connection, making it a wonderful place for artists to create, collaborate, and share meaningful work with others
- Georgina , Artist , Photographer , Author , & Creative Entrepreneur
When I opened my butcher shop in 2012, I quickly discovered the Inlet District’s incredible sense of community and support for local businesses. Seven years later, I moved here and fell in love with its vibrant arts culture and the stunning oceans, forests, beaches, lakes, and rivers that make everyday life feel extraordinary.
- Taryn , The Little Butcher
I’ve lived in Port Moody, in the Tri-Cities, for over 20 years It’s practical, grounded, and easy to live in You’ve got access to nature, solid neighbourhoods, and a pace that makes sense. People stay, businesses last, and the area keeps moving forward without losing what makes it special.
- Brian , Executive Business Coach , Effectus Coaching
The Inlet District is Port Moody’s masterpiece, a 15-acre community where urban energy meets West Coast serenity. The vibe is effortlessly social - think sunset sessions at Rocky Point followed by a quick stroll for dinner. It’s not just a neighbourhood; it’s that "mountain-meets-urban" lifestyle we’re all chasing.
- Kathleen , Principal , Greater Heights Learning Academy
We have lived in the Inlet District neighbourhood for almost 9 years now and absolutely love the area. For us, the walkability is our favourite feature. We had previously lived in the West End and were very accustomed to not using the car for days, handling everything by walking Now, we take our dog for long walks in beautiful scenery, get groceries and visit nearby local businesses and friends on foot Everything is so easy to access, even our business, Sauna Suomi is right in the Inlet District area
- Natalie , Sauna Suomi
One of the reasons why we love Port Moody is that it’s a place where our community can celebrate creativity together! Every summer we’re excited to showcase local artistic talent transforming Port Moody with immersive arts during the Art Out Side Festival. From the shoreline to bustling commercial hubs and neighbourhood parks, art can be found in every corner of the city: dance, music, theatre, sculpture, media arts, live painting, fibre arts, and so much more! The festival is free and open to the public, rooted in the belief that art belongs in community life
- Art Out Side Festival team , POMO Arts
I love Port Moody for its incredible sense of community and stunning natural beauty. Whether it's exploring the trails, enjoying the waterfront, or connecting with fellow dog lovers and local businesses, there's something special about this city. It feels like the perfect balance of adventure and connection.
- Olivia , Proud Pawrent of Darwin
At Place des Arts, we’re proud to be part of the vibrant Tri-Cities community. From the waterfront beauty and welcoming spirit of the Inlet District neighbourhood in Port Moody to the creativity and connection shared across the region, we’re inspired by the people and neighbourhoods that make this area so special. Together, we continue to foster arts, culture, and a strong sense of belonging.
- Star , Place des Arts
Artist Spotlight:
ARTIST BIO
Georgina Avila, also known as Georgie Dan, is a MexicanCanadian artist, photographer, author, and creative entrepreneur based in North Vancouver, BC. For more than twenty years, she has built a multidisciplinary career that blends fine art, photography, illustration, murals, and community projects, all guided by one belief: art has the power to create connection and inspire wonder
She holds a degree in Graphic Design from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and a diploma in Commercial Photography from Dawson College in Montreal Her work has been exhibited internationally and is deeply influenced by nature, animals, and storytelling Known for its vibrant colours, whimsical style, and emotional warmth, her art invites people to pause, smile, and reconnect with the world around them.
As the founder of Yellow Hippie Studio, Georgina has photographed hundreds of families and collaborated with international brands and organizations, including Disney and Lamborghini. She is also the creator of Cats from Scratch, an interactive drawing book that encourages people of all ages to embrace creativity without fear of perfection
A defining part of Georgina’s journey is her role as a mother to her autistic son, which inspired her to create DAN - Defend Autism Now - a personal art initiative that celebrates neurodiversity, inclusion, and the beauty of seeing the world differently
Whether painting a mural, designing a hand-painted piece, capturing a family through her lens, or creating images for her own, Georgina creates art that is joyful, meaningful, and unforgettable
WORDS & ARTWORK BY GEORGINA AVILA / GEORGIE PHOTOS BY CARLOS NAVAR (ABOVE PORTRAIT & PAGE 8)
FEATURE ARTWORK
Save the Birds Project
The featured artwork, created as part of the Save the Birds project during Port Moody’s Art Out Side festival, reflects my love for nature and my desire to inspire environmental awareness through art
Birds have always symbolized freedom, hope, and the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Through vibrant colours and playful imagery, this piece invites viewers to pause and appreciate the beauty and vulnerability of the birds that share our communities and natural spaces
Participating in Art Out Side was especially meaningful because it brought art directly into public spaces, allowing people of all ages to interact with the work and start conversations about conservation and our relationship with nature I believe public art has a unique ability to create connection and make important topics feel accessible and inspiring.
The Save the Birds artwork is ultimately a celebration of wonder and a reminder that even small acts of care can contribute to protecting the world around us My hope is that the piece encourages people to look up, notice the birds in their own neighbourhoods, and feel a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural environment that surrounds us.
Get in touch:
Email: georginavilaphoto@gmail com
Instagram: @georgiedanart / @yellowhippiestudio
Facebook: GeorgieDanArt / Yellow-Hippie Photostudio
Website: georgiedanart com / yellowhippiestudio com
Linktree: GeorgieDanArt
“Save the Birds“ by Georgina Avila / Georgie Dan
“Through
vibrant colours and playful imagery, this piece invites viewers to pause and appreciate the beauty and vulnerability of the birds that share our communities and natural spaces.”
Experience the löyly in our authentic custom built saunas. Breathe in the scent of natural nordic pine, feel the soft heat, and let your worries melt away. Your sanctuary of silence is waiting for you at Sauna Suomi.
The closest you can get to Finland without a passport. Book your session at saunasuomi.ca
WORDS BY NATALIE MEAD
PHOTOS BY SCOTT GRAHAM, @WFLBC
There is something profoundly healing about total disconnection from the outside world Like a micro vacation, a moment to truly breathe While we wholeheartedly believe in fostering better social connections and combating loneliness, sometimes we just need to step away and disengage We are more connected than ever, yet those connections often lack depth, true presence, or peace.
Comfort is key to true relaxation. When you feel entirely at ease, your mind can truly let go. We believe that privacy fosters that comfort by eliminating subtle discomforts we may carry unconsciously.
We’ve created Sauna Suomi so you can leave the outside world for two hours. Lock the door behind you, step into your private retreat, and leave electronics in the changing room Shed lingering anxieties about your body and let instinct guide you through healing hot and cold cycles Reconnect with yourself through the soothing embrace of heat, steam, and serenity It’s a space to recalibrate, to rediscover your center, or to simply share a quiet moment with someone.
Immerseyourself inatraditional Finnishsauna
In designing and building this space, a few guiding principles shaped our approach. Every sight, sound, and scent aims to bring you closer to the tranquil beauty of Finland and to carry you away from daily stresses. The idea of a vacation was central, we wanted to infuse this experience with touches of travel and Nordic charm. That’s why you’ll find vintage travel posters, artwork by Finnish artists, mesmerizing visuals of the Northern Lights, and hidden “Easter eggs” of Finnish goods nestled throughout the space Tiny reminders of the magic beyond these walls
The tactile elements were equally vital. The sauna is the heart, and everything was crafted with care ensuring it feels as genuine and welcoming as a sauna in Finland We selected beautiful, sustainably sourced Finnish wood, thermally treated and free of chemicals Its soft touch and earthy scent instantly invoke Nordic forests The sauna interior was meticulously designed to enhance the löyly, with benches optimized for comfort whether sitting or lying down. Every component of our sauna is handmade, down to the door handles, fashioned from the same Thermowood.
The cedar tubs are custom-built for a uniquely relaxing soak and add a West Coast touch. The showers are open and spacious, perfect for warming up or cooling down at your pace. Even the cold plunge isn’t your typical metal tub; it’s a more comfortable basin with an integrated seat, elevating your cooling experience. It wouldn’t be complete without a relaxing lounge area, and we are pleased to serve locally sourced tea from an indigenous female-owned company that forages for their ingredients
We are committed to making this space genuinely accessible. Beyond just meeting basic standards, we’ve worked to create an inclusive environment The Vaasa Suite is fully wheelchair accessible and offers multi-level sauna seating so everyone can enjoy the experience as intended If you have concerns about entering or exiting the tubs or climbing the sauna benches, please let us know when you make your reservation We will happily ensure you’re accommodated in the suite that best suits your needs.
Ultimately, comfort is key to true relaxation When you feel entirely at ease, your mind can truly let go We believe that privacy fosters that comfort by eliminating subtle discomforts we may carry unconsciously. In Finland, there's a saying: “All are created equal, but nowhere more so than in a sauna.” At Sauna Suomi, everyone is welcome, and everyone is equal. We hope to see you soon.
See you soon!
3237 St Johns Street, Port Moody
www.saunasuomi.ca
info@saunasuomi.ca
Instagram: @sauna suomi
Facebook: Sauna Suomi
How many sea creatures can you count?
PRESENTED BY PLACE DES ARTS
Founded in 1972, Place des Arts is a non-profit arts education centre with a registered charitable status and a mission to inspire the artist in everyone. We are home for our local arts community by providing accessible opportunities that boost well-being, reduce stress and strengthen social connections.
Place des Arts offers a wide range of quality programs in the visual, literary and performing arts for learners of all ages and abilities. Our programs are taught by highly skilled and experienced teachers and are designed to foster creativity, skill development and self-expression.
Beyond formal education, Place des Arts is a vibrant cultural hub in Coquitlam’s historic Maillardville neighbourhood
Our Artisan Shop and exhibitions showcase local and emerging artists in our three gallery spaces: the Atrium, the Leonore Peyton Salon and the Mezzanine Exhibitions change approximately every two months, and artworks are generally for sale with proceeds directly supporting Place des Arts and the exhibiting artists Exhibitions coordinated by Place des Arts are also on view in the Library Lounge at Poirier Branch throughout the year.
Our visual arts-based activities for adults, concerts and fun family events bring people together to learn, create and celebrate the arts Place des Arts offers both on-site and community initiatives as accessible arts opportunities for all ages to explore their creativity
Place des Arts believes everyone should have the opportunity to experience and participate in the arts. Our goal is to make our programs and events as accessible as possible, regardless of financial circumstances To support this aim, we raise funds through corporate sponsorships, grants, donations and our Annual Online Auction
Our
visual arts-based activities for adults, concerts and fun family events bring
people
together to learn, create and celebrate the arts. Place des Arts offers both on-site and community initiatives as accessible arts opportunities for all ages to explore their creativity.
These funds help support bursaries, program subsidies, and a range of low-cost and no-cost programs and events, making it easier for individuals and families to engage in the arts. Place des Arts is proud to offer fully subsidized programs to make the arts more accessible, such as the Artist in Residence programs, Family Day, Creative heARTs, Summer Theatre Troupe and more
Our mission: Place des Arts inspires the artist in everyone through our quality programs and cultural experiences, our talented people and our warm, welcoming environment.
Alittleaboutwhatweoffer:
pARTy@PdA: An artist-led, evening workshop series for adults only which includes a cash bar and relaxing atmosphere.
Children & Teen Camps: Summer Fun! Camp, Spring Break Camp, Pro-D Day Camp
Events: A year-long lineup of live concerts, Family Days, theatre productions, and opening receptions for all exhibitions.
Exhibitions: Place des Arts houses three exhibition spaces in which we are proud to exhibit the work of local emerging artists
Classes and Workshops: We offer quality programs in visual arts, music, drama, dance and movement for all ages and abilities.
Artist in Residence Workshops for School Children: We launched our Artist in Residence Program in 2014 with the objective of providing no-cost workshops for local SD43 school children to learn through the exploration of various art practices
Creative heARTs program: Newcomer and lowincome families have the opportunity to engage in visual arts workshops within our facility to encourage social and community connection
Get in touch!
1120 Brunette Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3K 1G2
Phone: 604-664-1636
Email: info@placedesarts.ca
Website: www.placedesarts.ca
Instagram: @pdacoquitlam
Facebook: Place des Arts
YouTube: @PDAcoquitlam
PRESENTED BY GREATER HEIGHTS LEARNING ACADEMY
WherePotentialTakesFlight: DiscoverGreaterHeightsLearningAcademy
For parents of neurodiverse children, finding a school that "gets it" can feel like an uphill battle. At Greater Heights Learning Academy (GHLA) in Coquitlam, that journey ends with a community built on the belief that every child is capable of extraordinary things when given the right tools
A Different Way of Learning
GHLA isn’t your typical classroom As a specialized K-12 independent school, it ditches the "one-size-fits-all" model in favour of a brain-based model This brain-based approach doesn’t just teach facts; it teaches students how to think, helping them navigate their unique learning hurdles with confidence and independence.
Therapy is Integrated
Imagine a school day where Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, and Physiotherapy aren't "extra" appointments - they are part of the schedule. By integrating professional support directly into the school environment, GHLA ensures that sensory regulation and physical development go hand-in-hand with academics
The Power of "Small"
With class sizes capped at 10 to 12 students, no child is ever lost in the back of the room. This intimate setting allows for a tailored pace and deep social-emotional support, creating a safe haven where neurodiverse learners can finally feel a sense of belonging
Creative Arts at GHLA
Greater Heights Learning Academy (GHLA) features a specialized Fine Arts curriculum designed to help neurodiverse students find their voice and build self-esteem through creative expression.
Music Program: Focuses on developing a love for music through instrumental instruction, composition, and production The school’s music room is equipped with modern technology for audio and video recording, allowing students to explore music appreciation and creation in a hands-on environment.
Drama & Film: The drama program emphasizes storytelling and character development through improvisation and scripted performances to build selfconfidence GHLA also offers a film program where students learn technical and creative skills like scriptwriting, directing, and editing to create their own cinematic works
Integrated Therapy: In addition to academic arts, the academy employs a Music Therapist to support students' developmental and emotional needs through tailored musical engagement
Annual Showcases: Students have regular opportunities to perform in events like the annual Talent Show and the Winter Concert, fostering a sense of pride and community
Inclusive Excellence: All arts instruction is adapted to accommodate different learning styles, ensuring every student feels valued while exploring their artistic potential
Join Our Community – Now Enrolling for Fall
From our specialized "light room" for sensory breaks to our high-school science labs, every corner of GHLA is designed for student success. We are currently welcoming applications for families seeking a compassionate, expert-led education for their children.
Ready to reach new heights?
Visit greaterheightslearningacademy.ca to book a tour and see how we celebrate the strengths of every learner.
Get in touch!
550 Thompson Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3J 3Z9
Phone: (604) 937-3641
Main Office Email: info@ghla ca
Website: www greaterheightslearningacademy ca
Facebook: Greater Heights Learning Academy
X: GHLA Coquitlam @MediatedOne
Our philosophy centers on celebrating each child’s unique strengths, providing personalized support, nurturing a community that embraces diversity, and enabling every student to reach their full potential.
WORDS BY TARYN BARKER PHOTOS BY THE LITTLE BUTCHER TEAM
Founded in 2012, The Little Butcher is an award-winning, independent, craft butcher shop located in Port Moody’s residential and commercial neighbourhood jewel, Newport Village Built on a commitment to quality, sustainability, community, and exceptional customer service, the shop has become a destination for customers seeking transparency, expertise, and locally sourced food. Over the years The Little Butcher has cultivated a strong team culture, with several team members celebrating between 10 and 12 years with the company While butchery has traditionally been a male-dominated trade, our team has proudly been made up predominantly of women for much of our history, bringing a unique perspective to the industry while proving that passion, skill, and craftsmanship know no gender.
At The Little Butcher, we believe customers should know where their food comes from. By working directly with independent BC farmers and producers, we create a transparent connection between the people raising the animals and the people enjoying the final product We practice whole animal butchery, utilizing every part of the animals we bring into the shop This approach not only reduces waste but also allows us to offer a wider variety of unique cuts and handcrafted products while honouring the farmers and animals that make our work possible. Today, we are proud to offer the largest selection of BC organic and pastureraised meats in the Tri-Cities
Approximately 95% of the products sold in our shop are sourced from BC businesses, including local farmers, food makers, and artisans. In addition to fresh meat and poultry, we produce an ever-expanding range of in-house products including sausages, marinades, seasonings, bone broths, slow cooked meats, and specialty items By supporting The Little Butcher, customers are also supporting more than 50 BC-based businesses and helping strengthen a more sustainable and resilient local food system
Community involvement remains a core part of our mission The Little Butcher proudly supports organizations such as Food Bank on Wheels and Dan's Legacy, helping provide nutritious food to individuals and families facing food insecurity Through whole animal butchery, thoughtful sourcing, and ongoing donation initiatives, we are committed to reducing food waste while strengthening food security within our community. We believe local businesses have a responsibility to contribute to the wellbeing of their neighbourhoods and are proud to play an active role in building a stronger, more connected community
Owner and Head Butcher Taryn Barker has spent more than 20 years in the meat and food industry Her journey began at the age of fifteen as a customer server in a small family-run butcher shop Today, she leads one of BC's award-winning independent butcher shops while continuing to advocate for local agriculture, sustainable food systems, and the future of the butchery trade. Passionate about education and industry development, Taryn helped create BC's Best Butcher Competition and served as a judge for this years third annual event Her passion for the craft has taken her around the world, competing in New Zealand, Brazil, and Australia In 2018, she earned a place on the inaugural Butchery Team Canada, representing Canada at the World Butchers' Challenge in Sacramento in 2022 and Paris in 2025. Taryn will serve as Team Captain when the team competes in Australia in 2028 and she has the honour of being the first announced female captain in the history of the competition
See you soon!
245 Newport Dr, Port Moody, BC V3H 5C9
www.thelittlebutcher.ca
604-469-9274
taryn@thelittlebutcher ca Instagram: @thelittlebutcherpomo
Facebook: The Little Butcher Port Moody
TARYN BARKER, OWNER AND HEAD BUTCHER
The Little Butcher’s Top Ten BBQ Picks!
These picks are in no specific order, just 10 things our team loves and we hope you do too!
The Little Butcher Seasonings – No preservative or anti caking agents, our Montreal Steak Spice is coarse ground and great on all meats TLB’s House Seasoning is honestly good on everything! We use this not only to season meats but our grilled veggies, soups, sandwiches and more!
Store made Burgers – We make a variety of burgers in store including some of our best sellers, our Bacon Cheddar Burgers with bacon and cheese mixed right in, as well as our 80/20 Beef burgers simply seasoned with just salt and pepper
Meat Thermometers – even with years of practice, the meat thermometer is an integral part of our teams tool kit! At the shop and at home, they help take the guess work out of cooking meats!
Cowboy Butters – These little guys are a new creation for us We use our organic beef tallow and mix in herbs and spices! These are great to throw in your pan and baste your meats with or lay on top to slowly melt as your meat rests
Pork Chops – Our pasture raised pork chops are juicy, tender and are incredibly flavourful Our favourite would be the Rib End chop with the bone, but we also have leaner Striploins and Sirloins
Marinated Chicken Breasts – our 5oz portioned breasts are quick and easy to grill in around 10 minutes! We rotate through our store made marinades weekly including our fan favourite, Maui marinated.
Thin Sliced Beef Shanks – These are for the adventurous eater and best served with a nice crusty bread Beef shanks are typically known to be slow cooked for hours, but these beauties are thin sliced and marinated You can quickly cook them on the grill or in a hot oven and the heated marrow can be shmeared on your bread for a delectable treat!
Rib Eye and Prime Rib steaks – These two cuts come from the same part of the cow, one is boneless and one is bone in They are juicy and flavourful and they are our favourite “treat yourself” steak!
Sirloin Cap Steak – AKA Picanha – This steak cut is well known in other countries around the world, but is lesser known here in Canada This cut is very flavourful and has a nice fat cap that helps keep it juicy!
Sausages – nothing says BBQ like some quality snags! We make a large variety of sausages in store with a rotating selection fresh weekly. From English Bangers, to Chicken Italian and Lamb Merguez, we have a flavour for everyone and every occasion.
Coaching Corner with Brian Cady
The Cost of Staying the Same
As summer arrives, many people start thinking about the changes they want to make
It might be in business. It might be in a career. It might be health, finances, relationships, or simply how time is being spent.
Change usually has an obvious cost
It may cost money, time, energy, focus, or an uncomfortable conversation But staying the same has a cost too It is just easier to ignore
Another year of stress has a cost. Another year of working hard without getting ahead has a cost. Another year of avoiding an important decision has a cost Another year of missed opportunities has a cost
Whether the issue is business, career, leadership, or personal growth, the pattern is often the same. The longer something is avoided, the more expensive it becomes.
Small problems grow
Habits become harder to change
Opportunities pass
Energy gets drained by the same unresolved issue
The cost of change is usually visible The cost of staying the same is often hidden.
This summer, take ten minutes and ask yourself one question: What is it costing me to stay where I am? Write down the first three answers that come to mind
Awareness creates clarity, and clarity creates better decisions
If you would like an outside perspective, I offer a complimentary 30-minute coaching conversation to help identify what is working, what is not, and where your biggest opportunities may be.
Brian Cady
Certified Professional Coach Effectus Coaching Group
www effectuscoaching group
Office 604-416-2619
Mobile 604-328-9309
“The cost of change is usually visible. The cost of staying the same is often hidden.”
What is it costing me to stay where I am?
Write down the first three answers that come to mind
Start with a complimentary coaching session Take the step!
Meet our Feature Pet
WORDS BY OLIVIA LAM
PHOTOS BY OLIVIA LAM & SHANDESS GRIFFIN
If you had asked me why I wanted a dog, I would have told you, "Because I want a companion to go on hikes with, to bring to park hang-outs with my friends, and to spend days at the beach letting them run free!". But when I brought home my Miniature American Shepherd, Darwin, and started to better understand her behaviours, I realized that my vision of having a dog needed to change
Darwin isn't a happy-go-lucky kind of dog, but she is wildly intelligent, incredibly perceptive, and lives to play, eat cheese, and be close to her favourite people She is also quite "spicy" and has very big feelings about other dogs, new people, and unfamiliar places
We lovingly call them her quirks, but living with Darwin and her reactivity has taught me that dogs are highly complex and that no two dogs are the same They're individuals, each with their own preferences, sensitivities, and ways of experiencing the world. Learning to embrace the dog in front of me, rather than the dog I had imagined, has been one of the most rewarding parts of our journey together In many ways, she reshaped my entire philosophy around what living with a dog truly means
Today, Darwin continues to keep me humble and curious. She reminds me daily that progress isn't linear and that success doesn't always look the way we imagine it will More than anything, Darwin has shown me that the goal was never to have a perfect dog It was to build a relationship rooted in trust, communication, and mutual understanding. She is my adventure buddy, my constant source of learning, and the dog who inspired me to become a dog trainer.
So if you have a reactive dog, or one with big feelings too, just know that Darwin and I see you. We see the frustrations, the setbacks, the wins, and the dedication and love you pour into your relationship every single day
Here are a few of my favourite things about Darwin:
The way she growls and grumbles at me when she wants my attention. How she sleeps completely upside down with her paws in the air. Her incredible ability to hear a cheese wrapper being opened from a mile away. That she's always ready for a game, no matter the time or place.
Follow Darwin:
PHOTO BY SHANDESS GRIFFIN
Marketplace Inlet District Living
