Guiding With Heart
Heather Wood
Hi, I’m Heather! I’m the founder of PupTalk.
My professional dog journey started in 2011 with a dog walking gig that quickly evolved into fulfilling dogs beyond the walk. I learned and enjoyed so much through city pack walks, park hikes, and training, but nothing was truly fulfilling for me and the dogs.
Between 2011 and 2019, I was long-term boarding and built a close-knit pack with my dog, Nora. Myself and 4+ dogs would spend countless nights camping in my Land Cruiser, exploring remote areas in the PNW. These experiences were rewarding and inspiring, in return deepening my bond and understanding of dogs, and in return creating the foundation for PupTalk’s hiking and training services.
Years later, many of the same dogs are still with us, and their families come to us with new generations. I’ve always believed in quality vs. quantity, keeping our program the strong and close community it was meant to be.
I grew up in the country of Michigan and quickly after working more with dogs I knew PupTalk’s end game was to go back to my roots, and find property for professional reliability and safety of what we believe in. Before the purchase of our dream property, we lived on Sauvie Island, rented a few other properties in the area, and we also have years of experience in the wild and city environments - keeping us aware of dogs needs in various ways.
As a rescue advocate, I’m proud to call Nora (a senior Rez dog), Hawkeye (a blue heeler rescue), and Red Dog (a more recent foster fail) my best friends. Our future plans include building an indoor safe haven for homeless dogs.
I practice slow living, honoring each dog’s natural pace with awareness, patience, and presence. I like to say we live by "Dog Time" embracing the natural slowness of both dogs (and honestly, my kids) and appreciating what it means to be together in the moment.
Outside of dogs, I share my time with my Husband Mike, sons Arlo and Bode, our three dogs, cat, and a flock of chickens at our 40-acre home. We love camping, traveling, old vehicles, music, caring for our land & family, outdoor sports, and dreaming up new adventures.
Maureen Fereria
Meet Maureen, one of our amazing dog adventure guides!
A devoted mom to three girls, she’s also a passionate animal lover with a heart of gold. Her family includes her loyal companion, Cricket, along with her other bestie pup named Maisy. She also shares her home with two cats—Owl and Shrimp—and a playful kitten named Milo, all of whom keep her busy and inspired. Over the years, she’s opened her home to foster dogs and lots of puppies. Her deep bond with animals is what drives her to connect so genuinely with the dogs she cares for at PupTalk.
Before joining us, Maureen worked on a farm in Estacada, OR, where she developed a love for horses and learned the value of hard work and dedication. In addition to her love for animals, Maureen is a talented jeweler and silversmith under her brand, Cascara Jewelry.
When she’s not out on an adventures with the dogs, or creating beautiful jewelry, you can find Maureen spending time with her family, making people laugh, enjoying the outdoors, or learning something new about the world of animals.
Maureen’s warmth, dedication, and nurturing nature make her a true friend to dogs, and we’re lucky to have her on the team. We love watching her grow alongside the dogs she guides and the adventures they share!
