What makes me a competent SA Trainer?
I’ve worn many hats in the animal industry: docent and educator, zookeeper, wildlife rehabilitator, neonate avian specialist, anuran breeder, behavioral researcher. When working with clients, I find myself constantly falling back on these other areas of expertise to problem solve a situation. It’s the culmination of this background and skills that makes me successful at my job.
Here are some of the top reasons why:
I attended a program specifically for separation anxiety
In addition to attending several programs focusing on dog training, training mechanics, learning theory, etc., I attended Julie Naismith’s SA Pro Trainer program. It was a deep dive into the ins and outs of separation anxiety (and related issues) and it gave a me a foundation for working with clients.
I worked with a veterinary behavior professional
I had the good fortune of working for a veterinarian that focused solely on behavior issues, and was studying to be a Board Certified Veterinary Behaviorist. I had the benefit of learning from her (and her mentor), observing behavioral consults, reading behavior reports, and other matters related to behavioral treatment and medicine. It was an education that can’t be found anywhere but working directly for a Veterinary Behaviorist (or resident).
I have a solid understanding of dog behavior
I’ve taken numerous courses in dog behavior, served on the Board of Directors for an organization that focused on shelter dog behavior, studied ethology and the behavior of other canids, including working with mixed wolf packs and wolves being rehabilitated for return to the wild.
I have worked with a variety of dog behavior issues
I have worked with dog-dog aggression, dog-human aggression, puppies, dogs with canine cognitive issues, on leash reactivity…you name it, I’ve done it. It’s critically important to have a solid understand of canine body language - generic to dogs, and specific to the dog you are working with. I’m often able to spot other areas where the dog may be struggling, and give clients resources to address those issues.
I have studied applied animal behavior
Although this may not make the most sense to potential clients, I would love to put this one at the very top of the list. There is a saying, “there are no behavioral issues in nature.” Animal behavior has function: whether it is tied to the immediate environment or has deeper roots in genetics. Being able to identify an animal’s need is the backbone of what I do.
I have worked with a variety of species
Again, this is not obvious to potential clients, but it’s something that makes me a strong and effective trainer. My clients know I love to tell stories and give examples. When I describe my Toucan’s behavior in certain circumstances, the lightbulb goes off in their brains and can suddenly see correlations in their own dog.
This is a very short list of what I think makes me an effective trainer. Another strong point is that I am a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer. I can always tell when a dog’s gait is off, or there is a stiffness in the body. I’ve also lived with and rehabilitated several dogs with behavioral issues, and understand what a client is going through emotionally. It gives me a way to connect deeply with my clients.
Finally, I truly want all my clients and dogs to be successful. Everything is designed to fit the client’s and dog’s needs, and I go the extra mile to see them succeed.
My online class is designed to encompass ALL of the aspects of my training. It’s going to be a mega Masterclass, and not for the faint of heart! I will be updating things soon as they are completed, and looking for one or two more auditors. Shoot me an email if you’d like to be considered for the list!
