I wasn't always a dog trainer. My professional journey began in 1999 in the field of Medical Assisting, where I specialized in Orthopedics, Trauma, and Pediatrics. Throughout my medical career, I developed a deep understanding of human body language, communication, and empathy—skills that would later become invaluable in my work with dogs and their families.

My passion for dog training truly began in 2010 when my husband and I adopted our first puppy, a 7-week-old Border Collie named Sadie. Two years later, we welcomed our first rescue dog, Radar, a 4-month-old Australian Cattle Dog/German Shepherd mix. While training Sadie was an enjoyable experience, finding effective, compassionate help for Radar's behavioral challenges proved difficult. After traditional "balanced" training methods, including the use of prong and shock collars, resulted in a significant escalation of his behavior issues, even simple neighborhood walks became impossible.

Determined to help Radar and better understand canine behavior, I decided to take matters into my own hands. In 2014, I enrolled in Animal Behavior College and became a Certified Dog Trainer.

As part of my certification program, I began volunteering at All Breed Rescue & Training in August 2015. This experience opened my eyes to the complexities of behaviorally challenged dogs and provided answers to many of the questions I had long been seeking. During my time there, I taught private behavior modification lessons, co-taught obedience classes, assisted with Wallflower (Shy Dog) and Reactive Dog classes, served as a Foster Dog Medical Coordinator, and managed the rescue's foster kennel program.

Like many in rescue, I also tried fostering dogs—but quickly became a "foster failure," adopting two of my foster dogs, Jackson (October 2015) and Piper (January 2016). I continued fostering additional dogs through 2018 and remained an active volunteer with the rescue until 2019, when personal and canine medical issues required me to step away.

Today, I continue training and learning alongside my mentor, Meg Brubaker, Animal Behaviorist, as my own four dogs collectively present nearly every behavioral challenge imaginable under one roof. Their ongoing journeys continue to shape and strengthen my approach as a trainer.

In 2019, I earned my Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) credential through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).

I am proud to be a member and supporter of several respected professional organizations, including the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

I am currently the only IAABC Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT) in Colorado Springs and one of only a handful in the state of Colorado.

Additional professional certifications and credentials include:

• Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)

• Completion of the Aggression in Dogs Master's Course

• AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) & Trick Dog Evaluator

• Certified Canine Conditioning Coach (CCFC)

• Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI)

• Stunt Dog Judge (SDJ) through Do More With Your Dog

• Certified in Human & Canine CPR/First Aid

My training philosophy incorporates a variety of evidence-based methodologies, including Clicker/Event Marker Training, Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), Nosework (Scent Detection), Canine Enrichment, and behavior modification strategies designed to help dogs and their families thrive.

Although my career path has evolved, I continue to maintain my credentials as a Certified Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist (CMA)—a testament to my lifelong commitment to learning, compassion, and helping others, whether they walk on two legs or four.

My journey working with animals began in (Year) when I started working at a dog daycare facility in Nebraska. It was there that I discovered my passion for caring for and working with dogs, and I knew I wanted to continue building a career centered around animals.

After relocating to (Location) in 2018, I eagerly continued working in the pet care industry, gaining experience in both dog daycare and boarding facilities. These roles allowed me to further develop my understanding of canine behavior, enrichment, and the individual needs of dogs in a group setting.

In September 2020, I joined House of Dog Training as a Kennel Technician. Through dedication and a passion for animal care, I quickly advanced to the role of Kennel Technician Manager, where I gained valuable experience managing daily operations while continuing to work closely with dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments.

In May 2021, I earned my Associate Degree in Zookeeping Technology, expanding my knowledge of animal behavior, husbandry, enrichment, and welfare across a variety of species.

My passion for training led me to accept a position as a Trainer at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in July 2022, where I had the incredible opportunity to work with multiple species in the African Rift Valley exhibit. Working with such a diverse group of animals deepened my appreciation for the science of behavior and positive reinforcement training.

I am passionate about teaching animals fun tricks, enrichment activities, and confidence-building skills that help them thrive in their everyday lives. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been teaching cooperative care behaviors, empowering animals to actively participate in their own healthcare and veterinary procedures. By building trust and communication, these skills help reduce stress and create positive experiences for both animals and their caregivers.

Whether working with dogs or exotic species, my goal is always the same: to strengthen the human-animal bond through compassionate, science-based training that helps animals succeed and live their best lives.