Meet Derrick
Nourish Your Dog's
Mind, Body and Soul
My name is Derrick, and I'm the founder, owner-operator of Beach Dawg Care®. I established this business after being inspired by my beloved dog, Tankie. As an Appalachian State University graduate with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Communications, concentration in Electronic Media TV & Radio Broadcasting and minors in Psychology & Sociology, I've gained extensive knowledge and skills in communication and psychology, which are crucial when it comes to building relationships between pets and their owners. Growing up in a family farming business in the mountains of North Carolina that specialized in animal care, animal handling, animal nutrition & health, animal welfare, and basic veterinary skills, I've learned the importance of providing top-notch care to animals. At Beach Dawg Care®, I provide pet sitting, dog walking services, and dog training that are of high-quality, and I always treat your furry friends with the utmost care and respect.
Derrick cradling his beloved pup after teaching his yoga class.
Tankie, a true Yogi Dog, embodied the peace, balance, and serenity that we strive to achieve.
Derrick's Journey
In 2021, Derrick and his husband experienced a heartbreaking loss when their beloved dog, Tankie, passed away in Derrick's arms. Tankie had an enlarged heart, and his passing inspired Derrick to make a life-changing shift. Derrick made a promise to Tankie to dedicate his life to helping as many animals as possible. This is how Beach Dawg Care® came to be. It is Tankie's legacy, and Derrick is committed to providing professional and reliable services to pet owners in Wilton Manors and nearby areas. With decades of experience and a continuous drive to improve his skills, Derrick strives to be the best Pet Care Provider in the area, ensuring every animal is safe, happy, and well-cared for.
Derrick hugging Tankie
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Derrick at his Mother's grave with Tankie
Derrick and his Mother feeding deer.
Derrick and his Mother with Derrick's very first dog.
He Owes His Unconditional Love For Animals To His Mom
At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick's love for animals runs deep. Growing up with a variety of animals, including dogs, chameleons, fish, turtles, cats, deer, cows, horses, and goats, instilled in him a passion for working with animals. He owes this unconditional love to his Mom, Judy Lane, who allowed him to grow up surrounded by these amazing creatures. Now, he continues her legacy by dedicating himself to the well-being and happiness of dogs in need. Derrick measures his success through the wagging tails, happy faces, and heartwarming feedback he receives. Join Derrick in making a difference and become a part of his mission to provide love, care, and forever homes to dogs in need.
Derrick, his husband and Tankie in their mountain home city of
Banner Elk, NC.
Derrick, his husband and Tankie
Tankie Left Paw Prints On Our Hearts
As a passionate pet trainer, Derrick founded Beach Dawg Care® with the goal of helping pet owners build strong and harmonious relationships with their furry companions. He has dedicated his life to understanding the unique needs and behaviors of different breeds. From migrating to this beautiful coastal town 18 years ago for his love of sun, sand, surf, and sunsets, to getting married to his husband of 16 years on a romantic sunset sail in Key West, he has always been drawn to the beauty of nature and the joy that pets bring to our lives. At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick offers a variety of classes that focus on pet communication, socialization, and science-based behavioral theory. He is committed to providing you with the knowledge and skills you need to raise a respectful and problem-free pet. As a licensed Realtor since 2013, Derrick has gained valuable insights into building rules and regulations, which allows him to create safe and secure environments for your pets. Additionally, he is licensed, bonded, and insured through Business Insurers Of The Carolinas & Pet Sitters International, ensuring that your pet's well-being is always protected. With a clear ACUTRAQ background check and certifications in Pet First Aid & CPCR, you can trust that your pet is in capable and caring hands. At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick believes in applying kind, approachable, and humane principles to his training methods. His aim is to provide real solutions to the most common challenges that pet owners face. He understand the stress and frustration that can come with pet ownership, and he is here to help you alleviate all of that unwanted owner stress. Join him on this journey and let Derrick help you build a strong bond with your furry friend.
Inspired By His Mother's Resilience And Positivity
Tankie with his Daddies walking for Arthritis
in honor of Derrick's Mom
Derrick's journey to veganism began with a personal story of strength and love. After losing his mother to Rheumatoid Arthritis, Derrick was inspired to make a change. Frustrated with the lack of focus on diet in treatments from doctors, he decided to explore the power of plant-based eating. Witnessing the damage caused by conventional treatments, Derrick became determined to find a healthier path. He discovered the benefits of organic, plant-based foods and their ability to nourish the body and promote healing. Inspired by his mother's resilience and positivity, Derrick embarked on a mission to share his knowledge and passion for veganism. At Beach Dawg Care®, he believes that vegan food can be both delicious and nutritious. Join him on this journey and discover a world of vibrant flavors and compassionate living.
Here is Derrick Higgins teaching his yoga classes on Miami Beach.
Derrick Higgins teaching his yoga classes in South Pointe Park, Miami Beach.
Bringing
Mindfulness-Inspired
Skills To
Dog Care Services
Expertise In Holistic Wellness For Dogs
At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick believes in providing compassionate care for your furry friends. With his expertise in holistic wellness for dogs, he offers individualized fitness programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each dog. He also promotes plant-based living for dogs, ensuring they receive the best nutrition for their overall well-being. Derrick Higgins, renowned expert in dog training, is also a Meditation Teacher and a Registered and Certified Yoga Instructor with Yoga Alliance. With his expertise in Power Yoga, Vinyasa, Yin Yoga, and Vedic Thai Yoga Bodywork, Derrick brings mindfulness-inspired skills to all his dog care services. Derrick's aim is to create a harmonious bond between you and your pet, and to provide real solutions to the most common challenges that pet owners face. Through expert behavioral coaching and applying kind, approachable, and humane principles, he is here to help you alleviate all of that unwanted owner stress.
Derrick teaching yoga on Miami Beach.
Derrick's Deep-Rooted Belief In Ahimsa,
The Principle Of Nonviolence Towards All Living Beings
'May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all'.
Embracing Love and Ahimsa
in Every Pup's Life
Tankie became a regular at the yoga classes Derrick taught - a true Yogi Dog!
Spreading Love
And Compassion
Driven By His Passion For Animal Welfare
At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick's journey began with his beloved dog Tankie. Tankie was not just a pet, but a cherished member of his family. Together, Derrick, his husband and Tankie embarked on countless adventures across the United States, spreading love and compassion wherever they went. Tankie even became a regular at the yoga classes Derrick taught - a true Yogi Dog! Inspired by Tankie's unwavering loyalty and the bond they shared, Derrick founded Beach Dawg Care® to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. His aim is to create a world where people and animals coexist in an ethical and sustainable ecosystem. He is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating animals from suffering, protecting their natural habitats, and educating the public on pressing issues. He has been tirelessly working towards his goals, driven by his passion for animal welfare. Join Derrick in his mission to make a positive impact on the lives of animals. Together, we can create a better future.
A Holistic Approach to Dog Health and Wellness
As a passionate dog lover and advocate for animal welfare, Derrick established Beach Dawg Care® to provide exceptional care and services for dogs in the Wilton Manors, FL area and beyond. With a plant-based and healthy dog lifestyle approach, he ensures that your beloved pet receives the best care possible. At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick believes in a holistic approach to dog health. He understands that a happy and healthy dog is a result of a balanced mind, body, and spirit. That's why, in addition to being a professional Dog Sitter, he is also a certified Yoga Instructor and Meditation Instructor. Derrick incorporates these practices into the daily routine of your dog, promoting relaxation, mental clarity, and overall well-being. With a deep sense of compassion for animals, Derrick treats every dog under his care as if they were his own. Derrick prides himself on his patience, kindness, and competence, and his clients can attest to the exceptional level of care he provides. Whether it's a short walk, a day of play, or an extended stay, no job is too big or too small for Beach Dawg Care®. Contact Derrick today to schedule a meet and greet. He can't wait to meet you and start looking after your precious pet.
Derrick leading a meditation on Miami Beach.
Derrick's Mission: Rescue, Love, Protect
Together, We Can Give Them a Voice
Derrick Higgins has dedicated his life to fighting for animal rights and advocating for their well-being. Derrick has actively protested against the inhumane treatment of animals, including Lolita, the orca who had been confined to the smallest tank in the world at the Miami Seaquarium for over five decades. His relentless efforts aimed to bring an end to Lolita's prolonged misery and raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare.
Celebrating Tankie's Life and Love
Remembering Tankie's Epic Journeys
Derrick Higgins is a dedicated dog lover and Professional Dog Care Provider. He has always had a deep affection for animals, especially dogs. Derrick and his husband used to take their beloved dog, Tankie, on long hikes in the mountains. Tankie was a true adventurer and brought so much joy to their lives. Sadly, Tankie passed away, but his spirit lives on in Derrick's work as a Dog Care Professional. Derrick has been providing top-notch dog care services to pet owners all over the Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale area. He takes pride in offering the highest standard of care and services to ensure the well-being and happiness of every furry friend he cares for. Many of his clients have become like family, and he is grateful to be considered an integral member of their pet's life.Derrick understands that each dog has unique needs and preferences, and he tailors his services accordingly. Whether it's a leisurely stroll in the park or an energetic hike in the hills, he provides the exercise, companionship, and love that every dog deserves.He would be honored to meet your lovely pet and provide them with the care and attention they deserve. Contact Derrick today to schedule a dog care session with Beach Dawg Care®!
His Freshman College Year: A Story of Compassion and Advocacy
Derrick Knew He Had To Do Something To Help
At Beach Dawg Care®, Derrick Higgins' mission is to create a world where every animal is treated with compassion and respect. He has always been dedicated to advocating for the rights and welfare of animals. With the support of his allies and partners, he engages and mobilizes activists from all walks of life. Join him today and be a part of the movement for a better future for animals.
Above is an article from April 6, 1990 Derrick wrote his Freshman year of College for the College Newspaper., The Cougar Cry : The Voice of Wilkes Community College, in which Derrick interviewed the Control Officers and Volunteers at the Wilkes County, North Carolina Dog Shelter. His Professor asked him to write an article about his fellow colleagues bringing their pets to class for National Pet Day, however Derrick chose to go to an Animal Shelter instead. He has always had his devotion and compassion for Animal Rights.