About the Trainer
I never planned on or really set out to become a dog trainer. I have always loved dogs and always have been drawn to the 'underdogs': the ones that don't deal with things as smoothly as humans think they should. When I started fostering, I realized that if I was going to continue working with dogs, I best learn how to properly communicate with them. My two current dogs, Dora and Dusty were extreme fear cases that have been successfully rehabilitated and live happy inclusive lives with me.
Teaching obedience is fairly straightforward. Changing the dogs state of mind is the hard part and that is the part that it is vital to creating a balanced dog and a balanced relationship. Creating this balance is the equivalent of treating the whole body for an illness instead of focusing on the 'issue' that presents itself. There is no quick fix. When you Double Down and revamp your entire relationship instead of just treating the symptoms, that is where you are going to find success and freedom to have the dog you always hoped you would have. This takes the investment of time, energy and resources along with consistency and a structured routine.
I look forward to finding a route of passage that works best for you and your dog and encourage the dog owner to be as big of a part of this process as I am. I am not just going to teach you how to uphold the training; I feel it works best to teach you to be the trainer/communicator when at all possible.
Seminars
-Method K9 Shadow Program August 2019
-The Scholared Collar Seminar August 2020
-Relationship Based Behavior Modification with Nelson Hodges September 2020
Volunteer
I have been volunteering for a Seattle area dog rescue for 5 years and am on the behavior team that helps rehabilitate shy, fearful aggressive and reactive dogs and find them a forever home that will upkeep their training and end in a successful adoption. In my work on the behavior team, I mentor fosters and adopters with difficult dogs to help them become successful in their foster homes and beyond.
I also volunteer my time as a case manager for the rescue as we work tirelessly to match dogs with their potential forever homes.
