FAQs
What are your credentials?
1
I am a certified dog trainer through CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and am currently completing the Master Class Program to earn my Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers certification.
I specialize in the rehabilitation and behavioral support of reactive dogs, helping them build confidence, emotional regulation, and healthier responses to the world around them.
In addition to my training background, I have been a registered veterinary technician since 2015 with extensive experience in ICU and emergency medicine. This medical expertise allows me to approach every dog’s care with a deep understanding of canine health, safety, stress, and behavior.
What can I expect when training with you?
2
Balanced dog training is a training philosophy that uses a combination of reinforcement and consequences to shape behavior. The idea behind “balanced” training is that dogs learn through both rewards and clear boundaries, rather than through rewards alone.
In practice, balanced trainers often use:
Positive reinforcement (rewarding desired behaviors with food, toys, praise, or play)
Negative punishment (removing access to something the dog wants)
Positive punishment (adding an unpleasant consequence to discourage behavior)
Negative reinforcement (removing pressure when the dog makes the correct choice)
The philosophy is based on the idea that:
dogs benefit from clarity and structure,
communication should be consistent,
and behavior should have meaningful outcomes.
For example:
A dog who calmly walks on leash may receive praise or treats.
A dog who pulls hard may experience leash pressure or lose forward movement.
A dog who practices calm behavior may gain freedom or access to rewards.
Balanced training exists on a wide spectrum. No dog is one size fits all, and I adjust accordingly to there unique needs. After our consult we will discuss what your dog needs in detail. Some dogs will need reinforcement and structure and a simple slip lead, while others will need corrective tools such as prong collars, e-collars, and or muzzle. All tools are clearly discussed prior to utilizing and are skillfully and ethically applied.
My goals with every dog:
Ensure there physical, mental, and emotional needs are being met.
Ensure owner investment in the process, training is only effective if owners are willing to invest the time.
Teach dogs that being relaxed and calm brings them the things they enjoy.
Make learning fun and engaging for your dog to build a strong relationship founded in trust.
Create clear and consistent communication.
Ensure that we strike a balance in training of providing challenge and reinforcing what they know to build confidence.
Always tailoring each dogs training experience and adapting to what they need.
Throughout training sessions I help owners with their timing, consistency, and calm leadership rather than relying solely on corrective tools.
What makes you different?
3
I combine my medical background and dog training expertise in every aspect of your dog’s care. This thoughtful approach ensures their safety while providing the mental, physical, and emotional enrichment they need to thrive. By supporting each of these essential aspects of well-being, I help dogs develop into calm, balanced, and confident companions for the world around them.