Dogs don’t need your Sympathies, they need your LEADERSHIP!
About Us
Aakash Shukla
It all started 12 years back when I got my first rescued dog Sweety. At the age of two months, she came to me with an accident. The physical injuries healed, but the psychological trauma did not go away. After trying a couple of trainers, nothing worked. Their feedback for Sweety was that either keep her indoors for indoor activities or put her on anti-anxiety medications.
I was not convinced with this new routine. I wanted her to explore more. So in order to get answers, I went on to do my own research and came across something called “Power of the Pack- A concept by none other than Cesar Millan”. I found his philosophy very natural, relatable, and very effective. I started to learn more about it by reading lots of books, watching visual content, and by observing packs of street dogs. After almost a year, I got another puppy, based on my studies, selected the right energy for Sweety, and after six months of working with her, she became absolutely normal and happy to go out for her walks. And this is where everything began!
Once people started seeing Sweety walk normally, they started approaching me for help. And while helping my neighborhood people I realized that we really need this concept in India. I made it my mission and started helping out at various shelters and started taking part-time private sessions as my education was still going on. Once I was graduated, I started doing this full-time and finally got Dog Mantra into existence in 2020.
After we made it official and Dog Mantra began, I got into this full time and structured my programs that includes Behaviour modification, Workshops, Puppy Enrichment, Pre Puppy counselling, Socialization and group sessions and many more things coming up in the future. I had worked for a year in partnership at a centre conducting board and train programs. We have our own private Dog Mantra Community and a growing Social media handle. I am currently providing services in Thane, Mumbai, and Pune but have expanded to other Konkan regions like Goa, Belgaum, Kolhapur, and also towards the North in Surat, Delhi, and Lucknow. We plan to cover up many more cities in the upcoming future. Virtual sessions and consultations have been provided all across the nation and even overseas.
Currently, I am working on my private cases and on solving the social issue of Human dog conflict by working with Societies, NGOs and through my socials. We had recently done a seminar at IISER Pune regarding the community dog scenarios and at IF.BE centre in Fort on Therapeutic experience from our pet dogs, even the ones that have behaviour issues. I was also invited on the Talk Show “Best Friends Furever” by DD National as their guest on the show and subject matter expert for the topic of that episode but due to the channel’s internal issues which led to the cancellation of the show, the episode didn’t go through.
Dog Mantra overseas –
I have recently received the Professional Membership and fully paid scholarship from the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) to attend their educational conference in USA.
Cesar Millan himself has acknowledged our work through social media comments and I was invited on an interview for a Panel discussion and QnA by his Head Trainer Steve of Pack Leader Dogs. I also have done many LIVE interviews through social media with many Behaviour experts across the world to exchange information and knowledge.
Khushi Bhatt
~ Diploma in Cabin Crew services and Hospitality Management.
I had completed my course in Cabin Crew and Hospitality management from Frankfinn Institute of Airhostess Training, but soon before I could start flying, lockdown took place. However, that did not stop me from pursuing my passion to work with dogs and hence, I started volunteering at MyPalClub (an NGO) to help them in their operations and assist Aakash back then in providing training/activities to their shelter dogs in Thane and in a blink of an eye, I started working with Aakash to grow Dog Mantra. I am passionate about working with animals, especially in the field of dogs and Dog Psychology and help people overcome their problems with their dogs, as I am too a pet parent of a reactive dog and I know emphatically the problems other pet parents face with their reactive dogs and try my best to connect better with them.
Role at Dog Mantra
I manage Aakash’s social media, ensuring a strong online presence and actively communicate with clients, addressing their issues and managing their cases. In addition, I schedule all the sessions, calls and meetings, coordinating Aakash’s day-to-day activities ensuring our calendar is well organised. My role extends to accompanying Aakash during work engagements, providing support and ensuring seamless operations. I act as a key liaison, balancing client relations, administrative tasks, and on-the-ground assistance.
Nachiket Deshpande
~ Animal Assisted Therapist, MSc. Clinical Health Psychology (Psychologist), Dog Behaviorist, Founder of PetAshram.
I hold an MSc in Clinical and Health Psychology from Bangor University and am a Certified Animal Assisted Therapist from BSY University, UK. My professional background includes extensive work alongside Dog Behaviorists, specializing in aggression cases, as well as volunteer experience in various training facilities. With a strong foundation in autism support and a profound dedication to canine welfare, I co-founded PetAshram to provide compassionate and holistic care for dogs in a nurturing environment. Additionally, I founded DogAAT, an initiative dedicated to Animal Assisted Therapy.
Role at Dog Mantra
Since 2021, I have been actively volunteering with Aakash Shukla, assisting in training sessions for over two years. I now play a key role in supporting and facilitating these sessions, and conduct practice sessions when necessary. In addition, I offer specialized sessions at Dog Mantra, focusing on cases of Cynophobia, helping individuals overcome fear and anxiety through Animal Assisted Therapy. I also work with clients to build confidence and manage anxieties effectively through these cynophobia therapeutic interventions.
Atul Kuduk
~ Certified Dog Trainer and Behaviorist.
As a Certified Dog Trainer and Behaviorist, I am dedicated to fostering stronger bonds between dogs and their parents through positive reinforcement techniques. With extensive experience in canine behavior, I offer tailored training solutions that address the unique needs of each dog and their family. My approach focuses on instilling proper behavior and manners, while ensuring the training process is enjoyable and engaging for both the dog and their parents.
Role at Dog Mantra
I assist in various cases at Dog Mantra, with a focus on Puppy Consultations and Training Sessions. Additionally, I conduct practice sessions for clients who need further guidance and reinforcement with their ongoing training programs at Dog Mantra.
Foundations
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Communication
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Connection
build a strong relationship/connection with your dog with Clear Communication
