Finding Balance Through Training
Meet Ashley
Hi, I’m Ashley—a dog trainer in the heart of the Hi- Desert, just outside of Joshua Tree, California, and the founder of A Fetchin Good Time. Since 2021 I’ve helped overwhelmed owners build calm, trusting relationships with their dogs through honest, effective, relationship-based training. My work is all about real-life support: no gimmicks, no judgment, just clear communication and structure that helps both you and your dog feel more grounded.
Animals have always been part of my life. Growing up, my mom and I fostered everything from dogs to injured wildlife, creating a home full of healing and second chances. That early connection taught me to slow down, pay attention, and truly listen skills I bring into every training session today.
Outside of training, I’m a mom, a desert dweller, and an outdoor enthusiast. You’ll find me hiking, climbing, and seeking quiet moments in nature, my favorite place to recharge. I’m also a culinary school grad who believes that good food and good company have the power to bring people (and dogs) together.
At the core of it all, I’m here to help you better understand your dog so you can build something lasting, rooted in respect, clarity, and connection.
I believe real progress with dogs starts by shifting how we see them—not as problems to fix, but as individuals trying to communicate. If you’re ready to slow down, build clarity, and create lasting change, I’d love to work with you.
My journey into dog training began in 2018 while living in Hawaii I began working at a local dog daycare. I became fascinated by how dogs communicate—body language, energy, behavior dynamics. That curiosity led me to realize that the relationship I had with my own dog, Butters, wasn’t as healthy as I thought.
I started learning everything I could, through online resources, and began practicing with Butters: leash skills, crate training, and basic structure. When I moved from Hawaii to the high desert, I couldn’t imagine leaving the dog world behind. So I opened A Fetchin Good Time as a small boarding and daycare service here in the Hi - Desert—and quickly saw just how many dog owners were looking for help beyond basic care.
Over time, I dove deeper into training. I attended workshops, joined online communities, and built the foundation of what my business is today: a trusted dog training service for the Twentynine Palms and Joshua Tree communities, helping people who feel stuck find their way forward.
From in-person workshops to online courses I’m committed to staying curious and evolving. I continue to shadow and learn from other trainers across the country because I love learning new techniques and learning from a variety of methods.
Where it started
How I Train
Training with me isn’t about perfection or control. It’s about understanding why your dog is struggling and removing the pressure that keeps those behaviors alive. We focus on clear “yes” and “no’s”, better in home setups, exercise and giving dogs relief so they don’t have to react to cope.
The work is tailored to your dog and your capacity as an owner. We look at what the dog is showing us, how your environment and habits are contributing, and what actually needs to change for things to improve in real life not just during sessions.
This work is collaborative and honest. Lasting behavioral changes require follow-through, tolerance for discomfort at times, and a willingness to adjust your own behavior.
Who I Work Best With
I work best with people who want more than quick fixes — they want a healthier, more connected relationship with their dog. Owners who understand behavioral change takes time.
My approach focuses on behavior, regulation, and trust, not just obedience. The most successful outcomes happen when owners are willing to look at the whole picture: routines, boundaries, environment, and follow-through.