About

I am a strong advocate for training and behavior modification techniques that are rooted in positive reinforcement and science-backed animal learning theory. Animal learning theory is the well-researched process of how animals adapt their behavior based on information in their environment, through operant conditioning and classical conditioning. Through positive reinforcement methods and eduction on how dogs learn, my goal is for training to be both doable and enjoyable for you and your dog.

I have worked in the animal welfare world for about 8 years. I started in the field working at a dog daycare while in college, then moved on to working at a variety of animal shelters in Vermont and Colorado. While working in animal shelters, I trained dogs on basic obedience behaviors, tricks, and leash manners. I also worked with a variety of behavior challenges: fear, reactivity, and dog to dog play problems. Additionally, I served as a behaviorist, working with adopters to understand dog behavior and supporting a smooth transition into the home. 

Positive reinforcement based training deals with the items dogs want (toys, food, praise, games), and never involves aversives. Positive reinforcement methods increase the frequency of desired behaviors by rewarding the dog for the behavior we want. It also includes providing appropriate, non-harmful consequences for the behaviors we don't want, in order to decrease them. The use of aversives, and anything fear-evoking often comes with negative side effects depending on the context - fear, reactivity, and bites without warning, in addition to eroding the relationship between you and your dog. 

My formal education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Biology from The University of Vermont, a Certificate in Professional Dog Training (CPDT-KA) through The Certification Counsel for Professional Dog Trainers, and I am a few months away from completing my Certification in Training and Counseling (CTC) from the Jean Donaldson Academy for Dog Trainers.