Meet Billie Groom | Expert in Canine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CEO UPWARD Dogology

We had the good fortune of connecting with Billie Groom and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Billie, what is the most important factor behind your success?
My success is the result of taking my own career journey that began with a mission grounded in animal welfare, and ended in the creation of a methodology that saves the lives of hundreds of dogs every year. I had no intention of becoming a canine behaviorist, but rather, wanted to address the challenges faced by adopters, rescuers, and dog parents with dogs in the adolescent stage (8-20 months approx) and dogs with disadvantaged pasts. Three decades ago, I started taking in dogs over six months of age, and through them, learned a methodology for effectively addressing behaviors commonly leading to surrender or euthanasia. I later learned my approach is different than the methods used in mainstream dog training. I continued to develop my method, and gained a greater understanding by talking with psychologists and veterinarians. The main reason I am a successful behaviorist is because I learned from dogs, never waivered on what was effective in achieving my goal, or followed mainstream.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an entrepreneur, the opportunities for success are wide open. Dedication, devotion, professionalism, and commitment are essential. It is necessary that your product, service, or skill is needed – this sounds obvious, but my profession was the result of people needing my expertise – not me deciding they needed it.

The challenges I face are inherent in a non-regulated industry. There is no board governing the industry, meaning there is no formal process or body in which to present my methodology to gain recognition. There are certifications, but these certifications are all in a method I do not teach. I am not opposed to that method, in fact, the two work well together. As with many industries, industry leaders are not receptive to progress and collaboration, despite the push from other experts and the consumers. In short, do not expect everyone to support your business, in fact, those who should be most receptive may be the ones who try to suppress you.

“Do not worry about making waves – the moon does it every night.” If your clients are appreciative, you are making a difference, and you are getting the attention of the media and influential people and orgs, keep going.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I currently hang my hat in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, which is not renowned for it’s sight seeing or restaurants. As with many small cities, the hole-in-the-wall places offer the best music and friendliest service. Regina is known for friendly people who work hard and play hard. As far as sight seeing – well, there are wheat fields for miles – “you can watch your dog run away for five days straight.” 🙂

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I give credit to the dogs who taught me what I know, and the rescue organizations, early in my career, who put their trust in me. I have always supported the non-profit, volunteer run rescues – they work tirelessly to help animals. Please support your local animal rescues.

Website: https://www.upwarddogology.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upwarddogology

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/billiegroom

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/UDogology

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upwarddogology

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTScmKo-2BytWox4zWPwr8g

Other: Podcast is on 11 platforms. Here is the Buzzsprout link https://www.buzzsprout.com/1020154/

Image Credits
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