Business Details
6 Years
experience
Trusted Dog Training and Therapy Programs in Wilmington, NC
Heeling Hearts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2020 with a mission to improve lives through dog training, therapy dog certification, and community outreach in Southeastern North Carolina. Our programs focus on strengthening bonds between pets and owners while fostering responsible pet ownership. We offer structured training for dogs of all ages, including preparation for AKC Canine Good Citizen certification and specialized therapy dog programs.Our team combines professional expertise with a passion for community service, providing opportunities for dogs to contribute meaningfully through local outreach initiatives. We prioritize evidence-based training methods that emphasize confidence building, socialization, and obedience. Our Wilmington-based operations partner with local organizations to maximize community impact while maintaining strict adherence to nonprofit ethical standards.
Services
Dog Training Classes
Therapy Dogs
Canine Good Citizen
Puppy Empowerment
Basic Obedience
Details
- Year established: 2020
Highlights and features
- We are a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on community impact
- Our team includes experienced professionals with AKC-certified training programs
- We offer structured six-week training programs for dogs of all ages
- We provide pathways for dogs to participate in community outreach activities
- Our programs prepare dogs for nationally recognized Canine Good Citizen certification
Associations and certifications
- American Kennel Club (AKC)
What people say
Knowledgeable people
Valuable service
Improve lives
Wonderful to work with
Community involvement
Services
Dog Training Classes
Our dog training programs develop essential skills through structured six-week courses. We focus on obedience, socialization, and confidence building for pets of all ages. Classes prepare dogs for real-world scenarios while strengthening owner-pet relationships through consistent, positive reinforcement techniques.
Therapy Dogs
Therapy dog certification programs train and register dogs for community outreach. We provide specialized instruction for dogs to safely interact in healthcare facilities and community settings. Our graduates help improve emotional well-being through structured visitation programs.
Canine Good Citizen
AKC-recognized certification program covering 10 essential obedience skills. This foundational training establishes good manners and responsible ownership practices. Certification serves as prerequisite for advanced therapy dog programs and community participation opportunities.
Puppy Empowerment
Early development program for puppies focusing on confidence building and socialization. Six-week courses include agility exercises, environmental exposure, and basic obedience training. We emphasize positive experiences to shape well-adjusted adult dogs through structured play and learning activities.
Basic Obedience
Fundamental obedience instruction covering essential commands and leash skills. Our six-week program teaches loose-leash walking, recall, and distraction management. Classes prepare dogs for public settings while establishing clear communication between pets and handlers through consistent training methods.
Questions
What dog training programs do you offer?
We offer six-week programs including Basic Obedience, Puppy Empowerment, and AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, plus therapy dog training and community outreach opportunities.
How can my dog become a therapy dog?
Complete our therapy dog training program followed by certification. We provide specialized instruction for safe community interactions and coordinate visitation opportunities after successful program completion.
What is Canine Good Citizen certification?
This AKC-recognized program teaches 10 essential obedience skills that establish good manners and responsible ownership. Certification serves as foundation for therapy dog work and community participation.
Do you serve areas outside Wilmington?
While based in Wilmington, our programs serve all of Southeastern North Carolina. We partner with local organizations to maximize community impact across the region.
Are your training programs suitable for all dog ages?
Yes. We offer puppy-specific programs starting at 8 weeks old, adult obedience training, and senior dog socialization programs to accommodate dogs at every life stage.
How can I get involved with your community programs?
Complete our training programs to qualify for community outreach opportunities. We organize regular events where certified dogs can participate in therapeutic visitation and public demonstrations.
