Meet Ireyon Carter of Furrever Dog Training Corp

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ireyon Carter

Hi Ireyon, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name is Ireyon Carter, and my journey has been one of resilience, passion, and a deep connection with dogs. Growing up in Saginaw, Michigan, I developed a love for animals, especially dogs, from a young age. Inspired by The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, I became fascinated with the bond between humans and dogs and the importance of being a calm, confident leader. By the age of 10, I started working with dogs, and this passion has guided my life ever since.

In 2019, I moved to Texas, where I gained hands-on experience at dog training facilities and doggy daycares. However, my path wasn’t easy—I faced significant hardships, including a period of homelessness for nine months. During that time, I slept in my truck with my loyal German Shepherd, Maximus, and found solace in working out and maintaining a routine at Planet Fitness. Despite these challenges, I never gave up on my dream. I eventually saved enough to get a small apartment, and this turning point fueled my commitment to making a difference in the dog training world.

Last year, financial challenges brought me back to Saginaw, where I took the leap to start my own business, Furrever Dog Training Corp. As a Black entrepreneur, I’m proud to run one of the few Black-owned dog training businesses in the area. My mission is to empower dog owners with the knowledge and tools to build strong, positive relationships with their pets. Along the way, I’ve helped countless dogs overcome behavioral challenges and thrive, including aggressive cases like Zion, the protective Cane Corso, and shy, anxious dogs like Astro.

In addition to training, I’ve also taken steps to become certified in Pet First Aid and CPR, ensuring the best care for my clients’ furry companions. My business now offers a range of services, from board-and-train programs to private lessons, focusing on everything from basic obedience to advanced training and behavior modification.

My journey from homelessness to business ownership has been shaped by perseverance and a passion for helping dogs and their owners. My goal is to continue growing Furrever Dog Training Corp, making it the first Black-owned dog training facility in my hometown, while remaining a resource for my community.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all—my journey has been filled with significant challenges that tested my resilience and determination. One of the most difficult periods of my life was when I was homeless for nine months in Austin, Texas. During that time, I slept in my truck with my German Shepherd, Maximus, struggling to make ends meet. To stay sane, I worked out and showered at Planet Fitness, holding on to the hope that things would eventually improve.

Even after I was able to save up enough for a small apartment, the financial struggles didn’t end. When I moved back to Saginaw last year, I was starting over with nothing but my passion for dogs and a dream of building my own business. Launching Furrever Dog Training Corp came with its own set of challenges, including establishing a client base and proving myself as a Black entrepreneur in a competitive industry.

Another significant struggle has been balancing my mental health while navigating these challenges. On top of that, I’ve faced moments of self-doubt, especially during difficult cases like working with aggressive dogs or addressing severe behavioral issues. Additionally, Sergio, one of my Pit Bulls, suffered severe injuries in a dog attack earlier this year, adding financial and emotional strain.

Despite these obstacles, I’ve remained committed to my vision. Every struggle has taught me perseverance, and seeing the positive transformations in the dogs I work with—and the joy it brings their owners—makes it all worth it. My journey has been far from easy, but the challenges have shaped me into a stronger person and trainer.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business, Furrever Dog Training Corp, is a Black-owned dog training facility based in Saginaw, Michigan, with a mission to help dog owners build strong, lasting bonds with their furry companions. We specialize in providing accessible, effective training for all types of dogs, whether they’re struggling with behavioral issues, aggression, or simply need basic obedience.

What We Do

We offer a variety of services tailored to meet each dog’s unique needs. Our programs include:

Puppy Training (2 weeks): Teaching young dogs foundational skills like sit, down, place, and door manners.

Basic Obedience (2-3 weeks): Focused on commands like sit/stay, down/stay, and leash walking for older dogs.

Advanced On/Off-Leash Training (3 weeks): Reinforcing basic commands and teaching off-leash reliability using e-collars.

Behavior Modification (4 weeks): For dogs with severe aggression or anxiety, we provide personalized, one-on-one training.

Private Lessons ($30/hour): Helping owners address specific challenges at home.

What Sets Us Apart

What truly sets Furrever Dog Training Corp apart is our holistic, compassionate approach. We focus not just on obedience but also on building trust and confidence between dogs and their owners. My personal experience—overcoming adversity and forming deep connections with my own dogs—gives me unique insight into how to address complex behavioral challenges.

We’re also committed to inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all dog owners, regardless of experience or background, feel empowered to work with their pets. As the first Black-owned dog training business in Saginaw, I’m proud to bring representation and innovation to the field.

Brand Pride

What I’m most proud of is the reputation I’ve built for transforming dogs that others might have given up on. Cases like Zion, a protective Cane Corso, and Astro, a shy, anxious dog, are just two examples of how Furrever Dog Training Corp goes beyond surface-level training. Seeing these dogs thrive and their owners gain confidence brings me immense pride.

What I Want Readers to Know

Furrever Dog Training Corp is more than a training facility—it’s a community. When you bring your dog to us, you’re not just getting training; you’re gaining a partner dedicated to your dog’s success. Whether you’re dealing with severe aggression or just want your pup to walk calmly on a leash, we have the tools, experience, and passion to help.

Our motto is simple: We’re here to ensure that every dog and owner shares a relationship built on trust, respect, and love—furever.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Manging money and building the right relationships

Contact Info:

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