An Inspired Chat with Blythe Neer of Greeley, Colorado

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Blythe Neer. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Blythe, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have been thoroughly enjoying knitting socks recently! Sounds so funny, but the rhythm is so soothing and helps me get to sleep and regulate after my work day. I love colorwork socks and am always looking for new fun patterns – especially with animals in them!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Blythe. I’m a professional service dog trainer and behavior consultant. I run a business called Delta Tails, where I help owners train their own service dogs for autism, celiac disease, POTS, PTSD/Anxiety/Panic Attacks, and more. I specialize in helping service dog handlers task train their dogs, separation anxiety, scent detection, and canine fitness and conditioning. I am always learning new things and taking courses because I love school and learning – a little weird I know. Right now, I am working on building a new dog owner foundations course that includes anything and everything I wish I knew when I got my first dog. I can’t wait to share that. I am also taking two certification classes at the moment that are almost complete that will allow me to offer a few more services to my students – one is a pain assessment course for dogs, and the other is a canine conditioning and fitness course. I really enjoy working with students long term and forming lasting relationships with them. I frequently have clients who work with me for multiple dogs over years.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That I needed to be a doctor or academic scholar to “live up to my potential.”

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I have dropped out of college twice. I was the straight A, scholarship earning, valedictorian student, and I dropped out twice. My health wouldn’t allow me to continue my degree. I was really really sick. I thought that the only thing I could do after that was be a professional patient. Thankfully, with the right doctors and treatment, I was able to start learning from home again and became a trainer after training my own service dog and raising a puppy for another organization. My health took what I thought I loved away from me, but it led me to what I really think I was meant to do. I’m so glad it happened.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That dogs need a heavy hand. In reality, the “heavy hand” is rooted in colonialism and white supremacy. It’s our job as trainers to show owners that they can keep their dogs healthy, safe, and easy to live with without controlling their every move with discomfort. Dogs aren’t meant for us to control or dictate every second of their lives. We choose to live with them and spend time with them because they are dogs, and we love them for that. They deserve kindness.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
My family, and the relationships I have with my friends. My dogs and rescue kitty who I pour everything into and love dearly. I feel like those are the most important things in life for me anyway!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.deltatails.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/deltatails
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/deltatails