Meet the Humans at Mountain Paws
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TASHA
THE OWNER
Hello and thanks for checking out Mountain Paws! I'm Tasha. I've had a lifelong love & passion for dogs and the outdoors. In 1998, looking for my own dog care, I noticed that there was a gap in the dog care service industry in Vancouver; professional, quality, small group dog walks, and customized, small group, in-home boarding. With this knowledge I combined my two passions and made a career for myself. Almost 20 years later, in 2017, we moved across the Province and settled in Rossland, BC where I started Mountain Paws. We now reside in near Nelson, BC but offer dog walking and boarding in Rossland, Trail, Fruitvale, Castlegar, Krestova, Shoreacres, South Slocan & Bonnington.
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I intrinsically love caring and advocating for dogs (all animals really) and have years of invaluable hands on experience working with dogs. I have Dog First Aid certificates, training certificates & experience, behavioral studies, health & diet courses, back country travel & guiding experience as well as a diploma in Outdoor Recreation Management. Also having Wilderness Rescue & Occupational First Aid Level 3 has taught me to operate my businesses in a *safety first* manner. Respecting the environment as well as other trail users are also important factors in running my business with integrity!
TRACEY, I met Tasha a few years ago, while hiking with my dog, and was impressed by the way she managed the dogs in her care. I began thinking then how fortunate she was to be making her living doing this. Fast forward a few years, and now I get to combine my love for dogs with my love of being outside. And it's a bonus working with Tasha, and her amazing team. I have loved, owned and trained dogs all of my life, mostly my own German Shepherds, and sometimes for other people. My background includes working with children, especially preschoolers with various challenges, which taught me to make learning fun. The same principles apply to training dogs, cats, and horses, etc. (Even cows!) Envision the behavior you desire, position yourself and the dog for success, always end on a positive note, try to catch them doing the right thing, and praise them for it! I look forward to meeting all of our clients and working with their furry best friends. Blessings, Tracey.
TRACEY
'MANAGER EXTRODINAIRE and OUR PERSONAL ANGEL'
CHANTELLE
'LEAD DOG HANDLER & our very own PUPARAZZI'
Animals, adventure and being amongst nature are my favourite things! From a young age I have absolutely loved animals, like a magnetic pull. My life has been surrounded by them always having a dog or multiple by my side. Animals just seem to gravitate to me and it definitely works both ways! I have much experience with daily care, wound care, training and building trust and forming bonds with animals. Working with horses and naturally breaking youngsters at a young age was such an invaluable experience. Farm life is where you will find me tending to all my dogs, horses, cats, chickens and ducks needs. I work hard at all I do and have so much fun doing it! Living in Casino allows us endless, year-round adventures from trail rides to snowshoeing, hiking and trekking with the pups. Can't wait to explore, adventure, connect and build relationships with all your lovely puppers!
Hi, I’m Walter!
I’m originally from Peru and have called Rossland home since 2021. I share my life with my wife and my dog, Polly, and together we love exploring the beautiful mountain trails in our backyard.
I’ve always been surrounded by dogs, my grown children are lifelong puppy lovers, so caring for animals has been a natural part of my life.
Now, I’m excited to be part of the Mountain Paws team, where I can combine my love for the outdoors with the joy of spending time with other pups. I look forward to sharing new adventures on the trails with your dog.
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WALTER
'THE DOG WHISPERER'
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KYLE
'HEART & SOUL OF A DOG'
Hello, I'm Kyle. I was born and raised in Castlegar. I enjoy exploring the Kootenays, I hike often and enjoy all the outdoor activities this area has to offer. Even more so now that I'm working with Mountain Paws! I have been an animal lover since I was a youngster and I always developed a wonderful bond with friend's and my own pets. I deeply appreciate the unconditional love and joy they bring to my heart and the world. I really look forward to meeting everyone and adventuring with all of the pups!
Hi I’m Alex!
Growing up on a farm, animals have always been at the centre of my life. From a young age, I developed a deep passion for caring for and understanding animals of all kinds, primarily horses. Which naturally led me to become an Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator. Over the years, I have worked with rehabilitating horses, ponies, cats, and dogs, building strong connections through patience, trust, and compassion. I have also spent much of my life fostering for the SPCA, leading the pet squad, and volunteering. Supporting animals through healing and growth has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. When I’m not working with animals, you’ll usually find me outdoors enjoying dirt biking, practicing my photography, or spending time in the mountains. Whether with people or animals, I’m passionate about creating safe, supportive environments where confidence, connection, and growth can thrive.
