Hi! I’m Jolene and this is my dog Sheila! We are a couple of outdoor-loving gals living full-time in my 2017 Subaru Forester. We aren’t doing any wild rock climbing, crazy base jumping, or long distance hiking (for now) but we spend our time camping, enjoying nature, and trying to keep things simple.
I am a 30-something, sort of crunchy dog mom that has spent the majority of the last 5 years being nomadic. From a 5th wheel to a motorhome to my Subaru!
Born and raised in a small mountain town in Arizona I grew up camping and spending my time outside. I am passionate about all things dog-related from nutrition to training to behavior. I am an advocate for raw feeding and living in harmony with our pets.
Sheila is a 3 year old sheltie/cattle dog+ mix. She is incredibly intelligent and athletic but she’s also reactive and nervous.
Life can be overwhelming for her sometimes and together we are learning to live our best lives, stay calm, and trust the world. Sheila’s passions are food, running, fetch, and more food!
Our Life
I live an unconventional life although it is definitely becoming more mainstream! Being nomadic is definitely not for everyone. Especially not on a small scale (in a car) with a dog. But it is doable and can be amazing!
In a time when the world feels off-kilter and surviving, let alone thriving in, the American Dream feels next to impossible this is what works for us.
I am fortunate enough to live this way by choice but that doesn’t mean I wasn’t struggling before. Choosing to live in my car is allowing me to slowly save money, spend more time outside, improve my mental health, and build the life I desire.
I share my experiences because life can be overwhelming. Moving into your car can be terrifying. Living with a fearful and reactive dog can be exhausting. Being a solo female outdoors can be uncomfortable.
But taking the plunge is so satisfying!
My Passion for Canine Wellness
Over the last 8 years, I have spent countless hours researching and exploring the world of canine wellness. I was passionate about canine nutrition for many years before I got Sheila but having a reactive dog changed everything.
A reactive and fearful dog affects every aspect of your life. Especially when you’re a traveler. She needs more than just obedience training. I care so deeply about my own wellness and taking a holistic approach so why wouldn’t that translate to my dog? She needs exercise, enrichment, a proper diet, and someone who understands behavior and mental health.
This can be very overwhelming for sure. But it doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying life! I wanted to share my experiences and resources for living in my car, traveling, and managing a reactive dog so other pet parents won’t feel so alone.
My Training Philosophy
I really hate training labels. I feel like they are far too limiting and don’t give the full picture of my relationship with Sheila.
If I had to label myself I would probably say I practice LIMA (least invasive minimally aversive). I do not believe in the use of physical punishment like shock collars and prong collars.
I pay my dog for her efforts. I use positive reinforcement as much as possible but I do realize that anything can be aversive to the right dog. For Sheila, a shift to an “angry” tone is very aversive. Because of that, I try not to ever use it. But admittedly, it has happened and I’m sure it will again.
I work day after day to create a relationship with her that encourages her best self to shine through. I have a strong belief that our animals should be treated with kindness, compassion, and respect.
I follow the science. I adjust my methods to align with what research tells me is the best approach. I make mistakes and learn from them. And at the end of the day, watching Sheila blossom and evolve into a happier, more confident dog has been the most satisfying and fulfilling experience of my life so far.
You don’t have to agree with me but this is what works for us.
- CASI Certified Canine Nutritionist
- Certificate in Raw Dog Food Nutrition
- Certificate in Acute Canine Herbalism
- Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
- Usui Reiki Master
- 200 Hour Certified Yoga Instructor
