Training with a higher purpose.
Philosophy.
What is training with a higher purpose? It is so much more than teaching your dog or cat to obey commands. My methods focus on creating a stronger bond and better understanding between people and the animals with whom we share our lives. I want the world to be a better place for dogs and other pet animals. My goal is to work as a team with pet parents and their animals to help them live more happily together.
Education.
I am dedicated to learning as much as I can about the most current, humane, effective training methods. In addition to a strong foundation of education in psychology, animal behavior and training, I read, take online and in-person classes, and always strive to improve my skills and knowledge as a trainer and humane educator. In May, 2026 I received an MS in Agriculture and Life Sciences (with a concentration in Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare from Virginia Tech. Click on any of the links below to learn more about some of my formal education and courses I have attended.
Behavior Vets Resilience Rainbow workshop, 2023
Great Big Dog Aggression Workshop, 2021/2022
Certified Control Unleashed Instructor, 2021
Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), 2022
Living & Learning With Animals 2021, 2024
Clicker Expo 2020 - 2024
Conference Unleashed 2024, 2021, 2020
BA Psychology, summa cum laude
Experience.
My training experience started with my oldest dog in 2016. Ky has taken me on a journey that has completely changed my life for the better. I have been training professionally since 2017. I enjoy helping dogs with aggression, reactivity, separation anxiety, and am passionate about helping dogs be more resilient. I volunteer at my local animal shelter and am a co-founder of HART (www.rescuetrainers.org)
