About Us

Louisa is the Head Swim Coach and owner of The Swimming Dog. She was inspired to work with dogs in water after she discovered first-hand the benefits of warm water aquatics with her own special needs dog, Twinkie (Bob is holding Twinkie in the photo). This life changing experience made her realize she could help other dogs have a better quality of life through assisted swimming.
 
Because she naturally takes a heart-centered approach when interacting with dogs and their guardians, she sought training that taught her how to integrate body work with sensitivity. Louisa has earned certification in canine hydrotherapy from Cindy Horsfall's renowned Canine Water Therapy training program. She is also certified in small animal massage from the Northwest School of Animal Massage, and is a canine massage graduate from Caninology. In her ongoing quest to continually acquire more tools that will help with in the water, she has taken courses in Tellington TTouch, canine behavior, Reiki, and advanced hydrotherapy training. She also stays current on Pet First Aid by taking a certificate course every year.
 
Louisa also works at The Sams Clinic in Mill Valley in the physical rehabilitation department as a hydrotherapist. She is a member of the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork and Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals, International Association of Animal Hospice and Palliative Care, and practices her work to a code of ethics.

Bob is Louisa's husband and is a man of many talents (anything from writing to woodworking). Not only is he personable and dogs like him A LOT, clients feel the same way. He is funny, easy-going and always happy to help. When he's not being a technical writer, he can be seen working on a very long "honey do" list (to which Louisa keeps adding projects). Without his help and support, The Swimming Dog would just be a dream.