Kristian Hammermueller
Owner, Lead trainer
Kristian began learning to train dogs in 1998 as an apprentice instructor for The Seeing Eye in Morristown, NJ. After an intensive 3-year program, he earned the title of Instructor and worked to help visually impaired people attain the organization’s mission of independence and dignity through the use of highly trained dog-guides.
In 2006, Kristian began applying the foundational training methodology he learned as a dog-guide Instructor to the companion animal arena and It’s A Miracle Dog Training was born. Its objective: to enrich the lives of dogs and their owners through the teaching of proper corrective training.
Above all, Kristian is first and foremost a dog lover who enjoys the challenge of trying to realistically see the world through a dog’s eyes. It is this perspective coupled with the application of empirically proven training techniques that he utilizes in bridging the gap between this world view and those of the many people he works with.
When not training he is most likely enjoying the company of his family (wife Hilde and daughter Natalie), one of his own pups – Hero, Hannah, Chance, and Alex, or some combination of both.
After losing one of his furry kids, a dear friend gave him a saying to hang on his wall, and the spirit of its message in loss is one he applies to training:
“It came to me that every time I [train] a dog they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.”
— Anonymous
Hilde Hammermueller
Owner, Lead Groomer
A graduate of the prestigious "Nash Academy of Animal Arts," Hilde brings with her an authentic love and passion for every dog she works with. When grooming she acknowledges each dog as an individual with unique needs, a perspective which allows her to provide unparalleled care for every dog that crosses her path. As the manager of the shop, Hilde leads with an uncompromising desire and commitment to provide the best experience and value for our clients.
In addition to being a talented groomer, Hilde has a particular fondness for teaching and enjoys passing on her skills and techniques to the less experienced members of her staff.
Originally from the South Tyrol on the border of Italy and Austria, Hilde has a passion for the mountains and outdoors and spends much of her free time out hiking with her own dogs.
Meet the Team
At Miracle Dog, we understand the concerns that come with entrusting your dog’s care to someone else. Our team, with their genuine love for all dogs and years of professional experience, strive to make the decision as simple as possible for you and your family. We take the responsibility of caring for your dog incredibly seriously and hope you can rest assured knowing that your dog is treated as no less than one of our own.
Training
Grooming
Julie Klimchak
Trainer
Julie is the first, and thus far, only person Kristian has personally trained as a dog trainer. After gaining experience at Miracle Dog’s spa for several years, she signed on as a training assistant when shoulder surgery left Kristian unable to work a leash. Having gone through the program herself first as a client, she was intrigued by the challenge of helping dogs and their owners overcome and/or manage behavioral issues. Her passion for dogs coupled with the many hours of behavioral observation, acquired knowledge, and practice make her capable of providing the results our clients are looking for.
When not working with clients’ dogs Julie can usually be found with her dog Miro at her side.