Intentional Canine

Intentional Canine is a dog training business in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, led by Michelle Lehr, a certified canine massage therapist and instructor. The business centers on three areas: therapeutic massage, canine fitness, and dog training. Michelle Lehr holds CCMT and PNWI credentials and is an AKC Fetch Instructor and Judge, part of the Family Dog Program in which dogs earn titles by demonstrating retrieving skills. She also teaches therapy dog skills and serves as a Level I, II and III instructor for Canine Good Citizen. Training is offered in mid-Michigan, with appointments available Monday through Saturday.

The approach behind Intentional Canine grew out of Michelle Lehr's own experience with her black lab, Rontu, a career-changed service dog who developed itchy skin and heavy shedding after his first year. Dietary supplements helped, and she began designing species-specific meals for him, which led her into canine nutrition, fitness and nosework. Rontu and she took part in therapy dog programs for six years, visiting colleges during exam week, volunteering with programs for at-risk children, and appearing at local Special Olympics and 4-H events. She now prepares future therapy dogs for that work.

Massage services are described as reducing muscle stiffness, improving relaxation, enhancing muscle tone, eliminating toxins, assisting with healing, relieving pain, calming anxiousness and reducing inflammation. Freeze dried dog treats are also available.

The business sits on S Loomis Rd, about four tenths of a mile from Potter Creek and seven tenths of a mile from Onion Creek. East Pickard Road is roughly a mile and a half away, and the Elijah Elk 7th Generation community center is about a mile and a half from the location.

Intentional Canine holds a 5.00 rating from the customers who have reviewed it, reflecting the regard of the dog owners it has worked with in the Mt. Pleasant area.