Our Shelter dog program
FREE training for all shelter dogs!
All dogs adopted from a shelter* will receive a FREE private lesson with Taylor at our training center in Grass Valley ($150 value)! Schedule within 60 days of adoption to claim your free lesson!
At Take the Lead we are extremely passionate about getting dogs out of shelters, and into loving homes! Much of Taylor's early dog handling experience came from spending two years working in public animal shelters while obtaining her Vet Tech degree.
Taylor and shelter dog Mindy hang out after a hike
Taylor and shelter dog Mindy hang out after a hike
In 2024, Taylor, alongside her colleagues Alex Maloney and Lauren Bernadett, founded Wayward Journey, a registered 501c3 non-profit that is partnered with the Grass Valley Animal Shelter. Wayward Journey manages the volunteer and foster programs at the shelter and raises funds for medical expenses for shelter animals. In addition to their work at the shelter, Wayward Journey also offers free and low cost vaccine clinics, and a free community pet pantry to those in need. Wayward Journey also works alongside local veterinarians and partners with other non-profits to bring low cost spay and neuter services to the community.
Through Wayward Journey, Taylor volunteers much of her time with Grass Valley Animal Control doing behavioral assessments, assisting with meet-and-greets, and providing the shelter dogs with enrichment, socialization, and training to help them maintain their mental health while in the shelter, and to increase their chances of adoption. She also trains all the dog-walker volunteers, and hosts shelter dog classes for volunteers to enhance their handling skills.
We strongly encourage our clients to consider adoption instead of purchasing a dog, and we even offer "match maker" services where we help you search the shelters for just the right dog, and support you through the adoption and acclimation process. We understand the unique challenges that new adopters may face, and we are committed to helping adopted dogs become successfully integrated into their new homes. That is why we offer FREE training for shelter dogs!
*A shelter is a public facility, maintained by local government, or supported by charitable contributions, that provides a temporary home for dogs, cats, and other animals that are offered for adoption. While we fully support ALL organizations who's aim is to rescue and re-home dogs, private rescue groups and foster programs are not included in our shelter dog program. Proof of adoption from an eligible shelter is required to claim your free lesson.