About Me

I have been unofficially training animals for over 10 years.  In 2003 I earned my Bachelor’s Degree with Cum Laude honors in Equine Business Management from Johnson and Wales University.  I was learning about training horses and inadvertently applying that knowledge to training my dogs.

In 2009 I found myself with enough free time to volunteer at the Upper Keys Humane Care Coalition, which is also the Animal Control Division of the Key Largo Police Department.  I believed that dogs would be more likely to get adopted if they could impress potential adopters with some manners, obedience and maybe even a trick or two.  Eventually, I extended my reach to adoptive families by offering to continue training at no charge.  It occurred to me that, at some point, I would be asked “what makes you qualified to train my dog?”  So to prepare an appropriate response, I enrolled with the Animal Behavior College (ABC).

In 2010 I graduated with honors and am a card carrying  ABC Certified Dog Trainer.  I thought I would breeze through the program without having to read the text.  Boy was I mistaken.  I learned so much and am so glad I got certified.

I have also become involved with Marrvelous Pet Rescue, assisting with training for adopters and foster families alike.  Occasionally I am called upon to assess the behavior of a dog being surrendered, and sometimes, I am able to help the owners address the issues they are facing, allowing the dog to stay in his home.  I have fostered, and aided in the placement of 10 dogs.  Two of which I, myself, adopted.

Unresolved behavioral problems are the leading cause of death among dogs in America. Thousands of dogs suffer and die annually because of natural behavior that does not fit in to human society.  I strive to decrease these numbers by making solutions available, and giving dogs a place to be dogs. My mission is to offer affordable training and free suggestions, tips and advice to dog owners who might otherwise forego training due to financial limitations.

I am NOT currently running a non-profit organization.  I do, however, have considerable expenses related to making my service and property available.  Because much of the work I do is pro gratis, or significantly discounted in order to accommodate lower income owners of adopted dogs, I do not generate enough income to cover those expenses.  Gifts are NOT tax-deductible and needn’t be monetary (but it sure does help!). Your old towels, professional expertise, dog toys/bowls/leashes/collars (new or used) and your time can all help impact my ability to provide convenience and low-cost service.