As a pet owner myself, I know that you want the very best for your animals.
I have dedicated my life to animal training and care. This includes the completion of multiple courses in Animal Science at the University of New Hampshire, Thompson School of Applied Science, as well as working for prominent local veterinary clinics; Rochester Veterinary Clinic, Cocheco Veterinary Hospital and Myhre Equine Clinic, before launching my own business. I remain
active today in studying the latest advances in animal science and training.
My approach to dog training is one that respects each dog's individuality and the needs of every dog owner I work with. My dog training methods are based on a firm foundation of positive reinforcement and are never rushed. I do not believe in the 'microwave fix' method of dog training where possibly harmful methods are used to get results as fast as possible. (read my blog for more about my views on 'microwave fix' methods.)
Just a few of the certified continuing education credits I have completed to expand and complement my 40+ years of experience:
Classes Completed at UNH Thompson School: (1991-1992)
Anatomy & Physiology of Domestic Animals
Small Animal Breeds & Behavior
Introduction to Animal Science
Small Animal Grooming
Fundamentals of Animal Health
Small Animal Production Techniques
Continuing Education:
Understanding Canine Behavior, Instructor Barbara Hendelman ME.D.
CEU Status:
18 CEU’s from the IAABC.
8 CBCC-KA,
7 CPDT-KA CEU’s from the CCPDT.
Basic Dog Training Skills & Theory Using Positive Methods, Instructor Jan Crary, CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator (Prerequisite for the 6 Week Dog Group Class for Trainers)
CEUs:
CCPDT – 15 CEUs
IAABC – 15 CEUs
ABCDT-L2 – 15 CEUs
The 6 Week Dog Group Class for Trainers, Rachel Friedman MSW LISW
CEU Status:
IAABC CEU’s-14.5
CCPDT CEU’s-12
ABCDT-L2 – 12 CEUs
Lessons in Fear and Aggression in Dogs, Instructor Peggy O. Swager
CEUs:
CCPDT-6.5 CPDT-KA; 6.5 CBCC-KA
IAABC-17
NADOI-14
PPAB/PPG-14
ABCDT-L2 – 17 CEUs
Pet First Aid & CPR Instructor: Sheilagh O’Sullivan (2016)
CEU Status:
IAABC – 9 CEUs
CCPDT – 9 CEUs
NADOI – 9 CEUs
ABCDT-L2 – 9 CEUs
Animal First Aid and CPR Certification presented by PetTech (2019)
Service Dog Training Lecture: Self-Control Exercises for Service Dog Candidates Speakers: Dee Ganley, and Barbara Handelman (2 CEU hour webinar)
Dog and Cat Nutrition, instructor Eleanor Kellon, VMD
Dog Bite Prevention Educator, Presentor, Niki Tudge MBA, PCBC-A, CDBC, CDT
I am currently working on a very intensive, multiple-course, certificate program to expand my dog training knowledge into group training methods in order to offer group dog and puppy training classes. This intensive group dog training program teaches curriculum development, training dogs in a group and how learning is affected, recognizing and working with group dynamics in dog training and elective courses in working with shelter dogs, anxious dogs, reactive dogs and rescues.
I practice the LIMA approach to dog training:
What Is LIMA?
“LIMA” is an acronym for the phrase “least intrusive, minimally aversive”. LIMA describes a trainer or behavior consultant who uses the least intrusive, minimally aversive strategy out of a set of humane and effective tactics likely to succeed in achieving a training or behavior change objective. LIMA adherence also requires consultants to be adequately educated and skilled in order to ensure that the least intrusive and aversive procedure is used.
LIMA does not justify the use of punishment in lieu of other effective interventions and strategies. In the vast majority of cases, desired behavior change can be affected by focusing on the animal’s environment, physical well-being, and operant and classical interventions such as differential reinforcement of an alternative behavior, desensitization, and counter-conditioning.
~ From The Association of Professional Dog Trainers position page.