About Heeling with Nature
I'm Tuesday Essa, owner and trainer behind Heeling with Nature.
I help overwhelmed dog owners navigate reactivity, anxiety, aggression, and the big feelings that make everyday life with a dog feel impossible. My approach is built on understanding why behaviors happen, not just stopping what shows up on the surface.
WHY MY BACKGROUND MATTERS
Most trainers observe behavior. I understand what's happening underneath it. I spent years working as a Veterinary Technician, where I was trained to handle difficult cases, dogs in medical crisis, fear responses in high-stress situations, and behavioral challenges that most people never see. This clinical experience taught me:
How to recognize pain-driven aggression before it escalates
When behavior is actually a medical issue (thyroid, cognitive decline, pain) disguised as a training problem
How to manage fear and stress using protocols most trainers never learn
When to refer to a vet behaviorist vs. when training is the right solution
I don't just see a "reactive dog." I see the full picture, physical, emotional, and behavioral, and I know how to address all three.
This background, combined with over 20 years of animal care experience across multiple species (including horses, where patience and clear communication are everything), shapes how I work today.
MY APPROACH
My training style is balanced, humane, and highly individualized. I follow LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principles, which means I always start with positive reinforcement and only add structure when needed for safety and success.
I work with dogs who are reactive, anxious, sensitive, overstimulated, or struggling in a busy world. I also support puppies whose owners want to prevent problems before they start, and dogs learning foundational skills for everyday life.
Sessions focus on:
Understanding your dog's needs and stress signals
Building skills that work in real-world situations (not just in training sessions)
Teaching you how to support your dog so progress continues long after we're done
WHERE WE WORK
Heeling with Nature offers in-home and virtual training. I meet dogs where they're most comfortable and where real-life challenges actually occur: your neighborhood, local parks, trails, or your living room.
Whether you're navigating serious behavior concerns, building foundational skills, or just want professional support that goes beyond quick fixes, I'm here to help.
READY TO GET STARTED?
If you're looking for a trainer who values connection, understands the medical side of behavior, and delivers real-world results, I'd be honored to work with you.
"Tuesday has a genuine love for animals that is evident in the way she interacts with my dogs. They absolutely adore her, and it's clear that the feeling is mutual."
- Kelly McShea
