A Warm Hello, From My Heart to Yours

Good Morning Reader,

Whether you’re brand new here or you’ve been part of the Ridge Valley family for a while now, I just want to say welcome. It means more than you know that you are here, following along, supporting, learning, and loving these dogs right alongside me.

For those who are newer, let me take a moment to share who I am and where this all began.

I’m a retired Special Education teacher and autism specialist. My heart has always been in helping others grow, connect, and feel understood. About nine years ago, that same heart led me to become a dog trainer for Cottage Garden Goldadors. The Goldador absolutely stole my soul. That sweet blend of loyalty, intuition, gentleness, and willingness to work felt like everything good wrapped into one dog.

Over time, families began asking if there was a more allergy-friendly version. But instead of rushing it, I spent three intentional years studying, planning, and selectively developing what is now the Doradoodle — a dog that keeps the mind and heart of the Goldador with the lower-shedding qualities that so many families need.

This wasn’t a “designer dog idea.” It was thoughtful and slow and rooted in love.

I’m also a certified dog obedience trainer and certified service dog trainer. My passion runs especially deep in training Autism Companion and Psychiatric Service Dogs. I believe dogs are meant to have purpose and that the right dog can change someone’s entire world.

Matching the right puppy to the right person is something I take very seriously — it’s why I spend so much time getting to know both.

And on the personal side — I love flowers, baking bread, making chocolates, and knitting. I don’t currently have time for any of those hobbies (maybe one day again), but truthfully… that’s okay. Every dog and puppy in my care deserves my whole heart. And they get it.

I’m always learning. Always refining. Always asking how I can do better. Whether it’s training approaches, puppy curriculum, or health and nutrition — I will never stop growing. Ridge Valley will always be a place where intention comes first.

To those of you who are here just beginning to learn, welcome.
To those of you who already have a Ridge Valley pup curled up at your feet, I am so grateful for you — you are part of this story.

Thank you for being here. Truly.

Warmly,
Amy
Ridge Valley Doradoodles

P.S. I would love to hear from you. If you feel comfortable, reply to this email and introduce yourself. Tell me how you found Ridge Valley or what you’re hoping to learn or find here. I genuinely love getting to know the hearts behind the names.