K9

My K9YOGA Journey started a few years ago, pretty much at the inception of Flexi-Paws. I remember feeling so excited that Jaun-Marie was finally going to be able to coach us and teach us how to do yoga with our dogs. I am so grateful that Bloemfontein has the opportunity to attend physical classes, because even though brilliant coaches offer online sessions with years of experience, I still find it intimidating to set up the equipment and commit to them. K9YOGA is honestly one of the most fun and enriching activities to do with my dogs, because every class is about the little progress you make without the pressure you would find in other sports such as Agility, Obedience, and Trick Dog. I know that in life there is always pressure, but it is not the same in a K9YOGA class, because the rate of reward is much higher, and there is no placing or competition.

I love that I get to take my little sheltie, Ronin, out every week, and it’s just our special time together to bond. I also love that I get to take these lessons home to my two other dogs, who benefit a lot from these yoga exercises, even if it is just a few minutes each. All my dogs are always relaxed after a yoga session, and it is especially reassuring to know that not only is yoga fun for them, but that I can see how much more aware of their bodies they are. I find this so important because I can see that the more aware the dogs are of themselves and their body parts, the more confident and autonomous they are. I wish more people in Bloemfontein would come try it out with their dogs, because it is such a welcoming community where we, as humans, also get to socialise with other like-minded people. K9YOGA is one class I hate to miss!

Glow Chang

Jaun-marie, ek (en liefiehond, Ava)het al sóveel by jou geleer. En Ava het dadelik vir jou ook lief geword. Die yoga bring net nóg ‘n dimensie na ons verhouding. Ek sien hoe sy vorder, konsentreer, probeer, weer en weer en terselfdertyd elke oomblik van die reis en saamwees geniet. Kosbaar. Ava leer my elke dag om in die oomblik te wees. En jou praktiese, geduldige, kundige en seker die belangrikste *liefdevolle aanslag maak dat Ava se magic net nog helderder skyn. Ons is beide dankbaar vir jou en en die seëning wat en wie jy is.

I first heard about K9Yoga from people in the dog community, and I contacted Jaun-Marie as soon as I could, because Finn was diagnosed with Spondylosis in April 2024. I thought K9Yoga would be perfect for him, since Finn’s vet also recommended low-maintenance exercises that would not put pressure on his back and joints, but would keep him active and improve his mobility and flexibility.

K9Yoga has definitely made a difference in Finn’s mobility and pain management – but not only that, he absolutely LOVES his yoga classes, and he LOVES Jaun-Marie even more. His tail literally wags non-stop from beginning to end. It makes me incredibly happy seeing how happy it makes Finn, and it also gives me peace of mind knowing that even though it is a difficult diagnosis, it is manageable. I also love the fact that it creates an even stronger bond between us, because it is not only Finn doing all the work – I have to support him during the exercises too.

Honestly, every single class is so much fun that it really is the highlight of our week! It makes me so proud seeing how hard Finn works and how his hard work pays off. He does love all the yummy treats… it’s always funny how he tries to sneak extra ones, even though my hands are already full! 🤣 He can also be a little diva sometimes – if he doesn’t want to do something, he will sigh really loudly!

What makes Finn truly special is how attuned he is to people’s emotions. He will immediately pick up if someone is upset. He is such a sweet, gentle soul and doesn’t have a single mean bone in his body. He also likes it when I call him “gorgeous.” 🥰 If every person had a Finn in their life, the world would be a better place. ❤️

For us, K9Yoga is more than just exercise – it’s joy, comfort, bonding, and hope.

Halle Berry is a 12-year-old Staffie, diagnosed with spondylosis and arthritis.
Since starting K9Yoga, she has started regaining mobility — climbing stairs again and going for walks she once couldn’t.

Some bonds are built through convenience, but others are forged through pure devotion. Watching the love and dedication you show your dog is truly inspiring. Every step, every adjustment, every moment of patience reflects a commitment that goes far beyond routine care—it’s love in action. ❤️

You don’t see limits where others might. You see strength, resilience, and a best friend who deserves the very best life possible.

Thank you so much for your passion and dedication Jaun-Marie Vermeulen! The improvement I see in Halle is REMARKABLE! (and in a very short period of time!) THANK you