Dogspeak

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Introduction: I use highly effective, science-based, positive reinforcement methods to guide students through a variety of dog training issues. I have a Master’s degree in Animal Behavior & Conservation and I'm certified by the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers. I'm committed to helping my students - human and canine - form relationships based on communication and trust. I offer group dog training classes and private lessons in Chittenden County and surrounding Vermont counties. In addition to teaching private clients, I am the behavior & training consultant at the Humane Society of Chittenden County and a staff trainer at the Vermont Dog Club. It is a great joy for me to teach dogs and their people. The most rewarding thing about my job is watching the confidence, skills, and relationships between people and dogs blossom. My passion is working to improve the quality of life for animals in human care and the relationship between humans and their animals using positive reinforcement methods. I regularly attend professional conferences on dog training and animal learning & behavior and am always striving to add to her knowledge. I am also a member of the local community of positive dog trainers, the Vermont Professional Dog Trainer's Network.

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FAQs

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The first private lesson is an initial consultation at your home where I take a thorough history of your dog and training goals, and we discuss our strategy for tackling those goals. Within 48 hours of the consult, I will email you a detailed lesson summary and any additional materials I judge to be helpful for you. If you decide to schedule follow-up lessons after your consultation, I will guide you through your training plan. During these lessons I will troubleshoot any issues you're running into, adjust your plan if necessary, and ensure that you continue to progress with your training. I'm also available for unlimited email/phone support while we work together.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an MA in Animal Behavior & Conservation from Hunter College, which was a deep-dive into the mechanisms of animal learning and behavior, and the history of human-animal interactions, and included a rigorous background in understanding the scientific method and best practices for research. I am also certified by the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers, which means that I took a standardized exam where my knowledge of animal learning science, how to teach dog owners (privately and in a classroom), basic pet care, and my commitment to using up-to-date, scientifically validated, force-free training methods was assessed. In order to qualify to take that exam, I had to have completed a certain number of hours both as an assistant and as a full trainer. The exam itself was written by a group of dog and animal behavior professionals in order to standardize the dog training field, both for its practitioners and for its clients. I am also a professional member of the Association for Professional Dog Trainers, the organization that developed the CPDT exam.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted a career with animals. I have worked at animal rehab centers, shelters, farms, and zoos, and I have experience with a variety of animals including seals, goats, owls, parrots, cats, and dogs. My connection to creatures great and small ultimately led me to earn a Master’s degree in Animal Behavior & Conservation and to a dog training apprenticeship with Andrea Arden Dog Training in NYC. While in the city, I taught dog owners in private lessons and group classes and worked in the behavior department at the ASPCA. I lived in NYC for five years before returning at last to the Green Mountains where I (a Chittenden County native) belong.