WALK HIKE PLAY LLC is solely owned and operated by Nicole Rathje. Nicole believes in building a connection with every member of the pack. She honors them as individuals and feels it is her responsibility as a pack leader to help each animal in her care to grow and thrive. For eleven years, Nicole has been working professionally with dogs. She got her start hiking packs of dogs off leash on the trails of Los Angeles for her incredible mentor, Teresa Apollo. Prior to working with dogs, Nicole worked as an elementary school teacher. Nicole's years as a teacher carry over into her work with the pack. She believes in clear communication and consistency, but also in having the flexibility to differentiate her approach to meet each dog where they are. In October 2015, Nicole relocated to Kirkland, WA with her husband and their rescue dog, Abby, who is the love of their life and an integral member of the pack. Walk Hike Play is thrilled to be part of the Kirkland community. Thank you for supporting a small, local business.
Qualification Highlights
- M.A. in Education
- Licensed, Bonded, Insured
- Dog Trainer Foundation Certification from the International Association of Canine Professionals
- Canine Good Citizen Evaluator for the American Kennel Club
- Professional Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals
- Fear Free Pet and Shelter Program Certification
- Pet First-Aid/CPR Certification
- Covid-19 Safe Business Practices Certification
- Homeward Pet Dog Care Volunteer
- Mentorship with Teresa Apollo
- Oregon Tails Workshop - Leash Handling Skills
- Pack Life LA's Course - Loose Leash Walking Fundamentals
- Tyler Muto's Course - Working With Reactive Dogs
- Michael Shikashios' Course - Understanding Dog Aggression
- Joel Connor's Clinic - Natural Horsemanship Fundamentals
- Buck Branamman's Clinic - Foundation Horsemanship
