FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I start with a brief phone conversation or email to get some preliminary info, but then I always make an in-person assessment of the dog. This let's me see exactly what it is my clients are dealing with, and maybe some cues or signals from the dog they don't see themselves. After this I'll start to implement some training & behavior modification right there during the visit. From there I put together a personalized training program that allows the owner to affect & manage their dog's behavior themselves.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am an Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer, with 11 years of professional experience with working Border collies, 3 years training Hearing & Autism Assistance Dogs, and about 30 years personal dog ownership/training experience. I'm always trying to add to my training knowledge by learning from other trainers as well, attending various workshops, seminars, and reading books & publications.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I've been a dog lover all my life and started out training my personal and family dogs (my Grandparents' Beagle at age 12). As I learned to develop my own style from established methods, I realized I wanted to make a career of it. That's when I took the Dog Trainer course through ABC and got my official certification. I got an A+ rating from my instructor and was promoted to the Head Dog Trainer position at my job with Wild Goose Chase the same year. I also spent 3 years as an Apprentice Assistance Dog Trainer in Southern Oregon.