Meet Zoe Holloway

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zoe Holloway. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zoe below.

Zoe, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Living with depression, every day is a journey but I try not to let ie define me. I find humor everywhere I look and try to bring that to life to keep me and those around me going. My parents are both very strong and I watched them overcome the tough moments that life put them through. I hold on to that. They are wonderful role models and have taught me a certain level of resilience. In college, my depression was at its worst however, there was something stronger in me: fear of failure. I kept getting up and going to class because I knew I couldn’t fail. During my junior year, my senior dog, Hershey, came to live with me. His needs kept me moving as I had to change diapers, take him for walks, go on adventures, and of course get some scheduled cuddles. The more I moved, the less time I had to focus on the dark cloud looming in the background. During this time I developed skills and a sense of self awareness that has led me to where I am today. I still have very hard days but even at my lowest I remind myself of the beauty that exists in this world. The things I have yet to see. Sometimes I have to keep going just out of spite for those who said I couldn’t. I keep going for my animals. I keep going for my wife. I keep going because there’s too much beauty in this world not to!

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am a dog trainer however, I like to say that I help improve communication and relationship between dog and owner. Many times what we see as dog trainers is simply a miscommunication of what an owner expects from their dog and that the dog is capable of understanding at that time. I am here to bridge that gap! I find it most rewarding to watch as dogs and their owners begin to understand each other despite having different communication styles. Once you learn how to read your dog, your dog learns how to read you, and you come together as a team, you become unstoppable! I want owners to feel empowered after training with The Dreaded Trainer.

Though the beginnings of The Dreaded Trainer are based in tragedy, I try to use that to guide others. We lost our Maltese to a dog attack back in 2021. I wouldn’t wish that pain upon anyone. I now use my experience to advocate for dogs and educate owners so that we can progress toward a more cooperative society with our animals.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

My curiosity is first and foremost what keeps me so focused every day. Canine psychology quickly engulfed my attention and for the longest was all I could focus on as we raised our Rottweiler puppy. I watched this puppy learn and grow while I was the guiding hand shaping her behavior and experiences. Five years later, I couldn’t be more proud of us as I watch Queen traverse the world with the skills instilled in her from the beginning. For those looking to get into dog training, I suggest they bring curiosity, patience, and an open mind to the table. Things you thought you knew about dogs will begin to unravel as you learn what lies within domestic dog psychology. Take on friend’s and family’s dogs as you learn different dogs. Be cautious but do not be scared to (safely) explore dog behavior. Foster dogs from your local shelter so you can experience the varying breeds and their specific personalities. This can be very fulfilling work if you’re in it for the right reasons!

How would you describe your ideal client?

Someone who comes in the door willing to learn with an open mind! Dog training isn’t always easy but sometimes you get that perfect client who walks in and says, “This is what I’ve tried. This is what works and this is what doesn’t but I still need guidance.” These relationships become more of a conversation between trainer and client rather than just a teacher-student dynamic. Dedication is another important characteristic. Motivation is fleeting. Dedication and discipline are the only things that will get you to your goal. I love the clients who work hard come rain, sleet, snow, or hail. They are dedicated to improving the lives of their dogs!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @thedreadedtrainer
• Other: TikTok: @thedreadedtrainer

Image Credits

Kimberly – Good Vibes Dog Photography