Joyce Rheal

At a young age, Joyce Rheal's family recognized and encouraged a unique talent of with animal communication, which led to her unique and deep connection to animals. Joyce's first pet was Shorty, a white beagle who had the patience of a saint around small children. Since then, her life and her home as always been filled with animals ranging from the wild to domestic to farm animals. Although Joyce didn't share her home with the wild and farm animals, they were actively involved in her life. Joyce has had the pleasure of living with birds, fish, cats, and dogs, which majority has made that crossing. Dogs in her home ranged from beagles, border collies, German Shepherds, golden retrievers, huskies and various mixes. [She's seen at left working with a timber wolf]

Her experience includes six years of animals rescue with the Wetzel County Animal Rescue in New Martinsville, WV. She was actively involved with a no-kill animal rescue organization including animal rescue, canine training, and cat and canine adoptions. This started her 30-plus years as a dog handler and trainer. For two years she was part of a wolf rescue organization, caring for wolves that have been in domestic settings that needed a safe place when their domestic homes did not work out. She continues to be active in wolf/wildlife education and preservation. Joyce was also active with a Paw Above Pet Sitting Services in Colorado before moving to Illinois. Joyce is currently an Independent Certified Pet Sitter and has completed the FEMA Animals in Disasters certification.