Sorry this pro can’t do your job, but we know other pros who can. Check them out
About
I specialize in behaviour modification and rescue dogs. I am a retired veterinary technician and a certified dog trainer using only gentle methods and positive reinforcement. Victoria Stillwel from Animal Planet's "Its me or the dog" was one of my mentors. I also founded and managed a no kill dog rescue personally saving over 5000 dogs. I have a mini farm in Athens Georgia. I have studied animal behaviour most of my life. Feel free to also check out my facebook page The Dog Training Diva for stellar reviews. Animals are the windows to our souls, its our job to provide them the best life possible, and understand them. I am here to help.
I love helping people understand their dogs and take great pride in making the human/animal bond more enriching.
Overview
Hired 31 times
Background checked
19 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Credit card, Google Pay, PayPal, Samsung Pay, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2018
Services offered
Dog training package
Puppy training
General obedience training
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, responsiveness, and professionalism.
Exceptional 5.0
79 reviews
5
97%
4
3%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Mary A.
Sep 22, 2025
•
From Google
I was really impressed with Kate. She immediately understood what issues we were having and gave us simple techniques to address the problem. She had our dog responding quickly. I highly recommend her !
Jennifer B.
May 22, 2025
•
From Google
Kate was wonderful with our pup and super knowledgeable! I love that she trains using only positive reinforcement. We will be using her again!!
Kourtney C.
Apr 29, 2025
•
From Google
Kate was such a huge help with our puppy and just what we needed! She spent time getting to know him to understand how best to interact with him to ensure he is happy and understands boundaries. She took a lot of time to explain some of the psychology behind dog behavior, and gave us lots of strategies for how 7-year-old can interact with him in ways that teaches him she is the leader so he will also listen to her when she gives a command. A lot of her advice went back to ensuring our puppy understands the boundaries and that we are following through with them. She also really focused on child safety and specific commands, like "go away" that we can use if he needs a to go away, especially to be used if he needs to give a kid space. Overall, I would highly recommend Kate for dogtraining services. She takes the time to genuinely understand your dog and teach you how to work with then using positive reinforcement to ensure a lifetime of happiness.
Melinda
Jun 2, 2025
•
From Google
Kate was friendly and knowledgeable.Got to the root of our dogs behavioral issues.Looking forward to using the tools provided to get our dog to a better happier place
Thuy T.
Nov 11, 2020
•
Hired on Thumbtack
She did amazing! We were hesitant about spending money on a trainer, but she was worth every penny. Our dog had some aggression problems, but she understood our dog and we got to tackle some deeper rooted problems, and within the short 2 hours, we could already see the progress. We’re still practicing at home, but it’s like a whole new (much happier) pup :)
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Biting • Destructive behavior • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Kathleen Carpenter
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Initial consult is $200/2 hour session in the comfort of your home. Mileage applies if out of service area. I service Clarke, Gwinnett, Barrow, Oconee, Walton and surroinding area. If follow ups are requested they are $100/1 hour sessions as needed. Most behaviour calls are resolved in 1 visit. I do pay as you go I do not sell "packages". I accept cash and PayPal ( can use a card).
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Call me to set an appointment.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I had a no kill shelter for 5 years, set up like a doggie daycare. I attend animal husbandry and medical seminars at UGA. I achieved my AKC CGC Evlauator credentials, was a member of the APDT and had a certified TDI therapy dog. I was fortunate enough to have Victoria Stilwell as one of my wonderful mentors, and completed a 2 year HANDS ON dog training apprenticeship at a wonderful kennel with only positive reinforcement methods used. I am also a retired veterinary technician of 20+ years. I love helping animals and their families.
