Freedog Austin

Pet Groomer

I started my first pet service in Brooklyn, NY in 2010, frankly, because I wasn't allowed to have a dog in my building. A regular customer came into the shop where I worked and asked if I would dog sit for her sweet-tempered Bouvier. I was honored and excited by the prospect. After we exchanged information and she left, my co-worker said, "you know she's going to pay you, right?" It seemed too good to be true. That was the kick off of HeelBklyn. I began walking dogs and never looked back. The business and Brooklyn were very good to me. HeelBklyn grew to cover several nearby neighborhoods, but in 2016 I had to return to Texas and attend to family emergencies. The open possibilities of Austin's pet community convinced me to stay. Though I loved my Brooklyn clients, I felt I could have a greater impact in Austin. I longed to build a business reflective of my values, specifically to promote informed dog care and support happy, confident ownership. So here we go. Read more

5 recommendations

  •  
    Katie Banahan

    Shared on facebook.com

    Helen is the most genuine and caring person for our English springer spaniel Margie - you can tell she really enjoys what she does. Her attention to detail and daily updates are fantastic.

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Kelly A.

    Shared on yelp.com

    Helen has been walking our dog Shadow, for the past couple of months now and we could not be happier with her service! When we rescued Shadow, he was a little under-socialized with people, and Helen has helped his personality to blossom and helped build his confidence in such a short time! ...

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Paul M.

    Shared on yelp.com

    Helen is a smart, funny, and reliable person who puts you and your dogs first. She walks our dog Chazz and sends fun videos and pics during the day. Our dog is always better behaved when he's had the excercise and putting your dog in the backyard is no substitute for exploring the area on a solo walk or in the pack (plus the pics are a great way to brighten up your day at work). ...

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Emmy Hayes

    Shared on facebook.com

    Helen has been a dream come true to my lovable pit mix Grace! Not only does she have a soothing and calm presence around my anxious girl, but also carries a confidence that assures me, as well as Grace, that she is a great dog walker and caregiver while I'm away. ...

    Original recommendation
  •  
    Jason Yau

    Shared on facebook.com

    I love Freedog Austin! Helen is the most caring and professional dog walker, sitter and well rounded dog whisperer of all times. She always puts the dog's needs before herself and I have seen instant positive change in my dog's behavior as she seems to know exactly what he needs. ...

    Original recommendation