VOX PUP-ULI

I’ve been working with Maxine at Punk Pups for over five years now, and I can’t say enough about how transformative her support has been for me and my dog. When we first started, my dog was struggling with serious reactivity that left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to help her. I couldn’t take her outside without the fear of her lunging or barking at another dog, and I especially dreaded the possibility of encountering an off-leash dog. Maxine’s rehab program gave us the tools and foundation we desperately needed and from there, not only has my confidence as a handler grown, but I’ve seen my dog shift from anxious and on edge to noticeably more calm and grounded.

Beyond that progress, Maxine has remained an incredible resource through every stage of our journey. She’s supported us through some major life transitions—including a move from the suburbs to the city, and a significant breakup, where I initially struggled to manage my dog without the support of a partner. But again, thanks to Maxine, I’ve grown so much more confident in reading my dog’s body language and communicating with her effectively, even in situations that used to feel overwhelming.

One of the services I especially value is being able to board my dog with Maxine during long work days or when I travel. It’s hard to trust people with your dog, especially one who needs extra support and could end up in a dangerous situation with an untrained or inattentive handler. I can’t leave her with just anyone, nor would I want to. But with Maxine, I know my dog is not only safe and well cared for, but also receiving the same love, structure, and understanding she gets at home. Maxine regularly shares updates—both directly and on social media—so I can actually see how my dog is doing under her care, which brings me so much reassurance. She even has three cats in her home, and seeing my dog exist calmly around them is something I never imagined would be possible!

Through it all, what stands out the most is how supported I feel. No matter what comes up, I know I can reach out for guidance, tips, or a tune-up session. It’s made all the difference. I’m so grateful for the care, consistency, and deep knowledge Maxine brings to her work. It’s truly been life-changing.