Meet Jessica Maxey | Dog Trainer

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

Hi Jessica, can you tell us about a book that has had a meaningful impact on you? What was your thought process behind starting your own business?

I have always had a passion for dogs and being active. In 2008, I made the decision to start dog walking as a way to combine my love for dogs with my desire to be physically active. After years of working in an office as a nutritionist, I found that dog walking was a much more fulfilling and enjoyable career. It also allowed me to help dog owners who were unable to take their dogs outside for regular walks. Eventually, my husband and I started a non-profit dog rescue, J and V Rescue, which was named after our beloved dog, Jericho, and cat, Vanilla. Our dog, Quito, joined our family then. During this time, I began my own dog training business, further pursuing my passion for working with dogs.

Do you have a budget? How do you think about your personal finances and how do you make lifestyle and spending decisions?

Budgeting is a priority in our family. Over the years, I have learned to be more conscious of my spending habits and make smarter financial decisions. Budgeting has become a crucial aspect of my life as it helps me balance my responsibilities as a small business owner and plan for a secure future for my family.

Risk taking: how do you think about risk, what role has taking risks played in your life/career?

Despite risks and uncertainties, leaving my comfortable job at the hospital to start my own dog walking business has been a rewarding experience. Not only do I have the freedom to set my own schedule and work for myself, but I also have the opportunity to connect with animals and their owners in a way that I couldn’t in a hospital setting. Plus, the sense of fulfillment I get from running my own business is unparalleled.

Where are you from and how did your background and upbringing impact who you are today?

I was born and raised in the inner city of NYC. My parents taught me the value of hard work and the importance of family. I am grateful for the lessons my parents have instilled in me, such as being humble and disciplined in setting goals. They have also taught me to think independently and not let external influences sway my decisions. I cherish the daily phone conversations with my mother, who provides invaluable wisdom and advice, keeping me grounded and focused. For that, I’m always grateful.

What is the most important factor behind your success / the success of your brand?

My family! My husband, Josh Maxey, has encouraged me to start my own dog training business and continues to support me. As a guitar teacher, he understands the dedication and effort that goes into running a small business. Our daughter, Mayu, serves as my daily inspiration, reminding me of the importance of perseverance and success. Having faced challenges with my own dog in the past, I find joy in helping clients navigate similar struggles. Together, as a family of entrepreneurs, we are committed to pursuing our passions and supporting one another along the way.

What value or principle matters most to you? Why?

I have found that being disciplined is key to achieving my goals. Without it, distractions can easily lead me astray and prevent me from meeting deadlines. Sticking to a consistent routine is crucial in attaining success. As a dog trainer, I often emphasize the importance of consistency to my clients, as it is what provides the results that improve their relationship with their dogs.

Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? How do you think about the balance?

Despite the challenges, being a wife, mother, and small business owner brings me joy and fulfillment. I have learned to prioritize and balance my responsibilities, making sure to allocate time for both work and personal life. We have a full house, our dogs Quito and Tails and a family of cats. Having dogs stay in my home for board and train adds a unique dynamic to my life, and I have learned the importance of taking breaks and planning activities with my family to maintain a healthy balance. It’s all about finding the right balance and continually adjusting to find what works best for me and my family.

What’s the end goal? Where do you want to be professionally by the end of your career?

I’d like to think that my daughter will someday take over Jessica’s Dog Training but so far it looks like she has other plans! She loves creating animation and prefers cats over dogs. My goal is to continue to work with people and help their dogs as long as I can.

Why did you pursue an artistic or creative career?

My husband and I are musicians. We traveled around the country performing at powwows and museums. I think there are some similarities between music and dogs. We connect with dogs on a non-verbal emotional level. Music brings emotions. Music connects us with people. Dogs connect us with people.

Tell us about a book you’ve read and why you like it / what impact it had on you.

Dogs provide us lessons, they are a gift. I often recommend to clients Short Guide to a Happy Dog by Cesar Millan, a highly regarded dog behavior expert. I was fortunate to complete a 5 day intensive workshop led by Cesar at the Dog Psychology Center. Cesar’s teachings influence my personal life with my own dogs as well as my work with clients. It’s more than just dog training, it’s a lifestyle.

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.
Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy but I wouldn’t have done it any differently. I am happy to run a business from home and being able to spend time with my family and work on creating music.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The mountains are what drew me to Colorado. I recommend Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks and Pikes Peak. I prefer cooking for my family rather than going out to eat unless we’re out on a trip.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, Josh Maxey, rubbing off that entrepreneur energy! My mother for her wisdom and advice and my dog Jericho, who helped me to understand the language of dogs.

Website: https://www.jessicasdogtraining.com/

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

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jessica-s-dog-training-brighton

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@packinharmony1395

Image Credits
Joshua Maxey