Having grown up in 4H, I had a handful of certification in the canine field, which I loved, so becoming a dog trainer professionally only made sense as far as a career. I got my start through Petsmart as an accredited trainer. That is what fueled me to continue my dog training education through ABC. Aside from being a 7+ year alumnus of ABC, I also hold a certificate from Psychiatric Service Dog Academy, 2 through O.S.J. service dog training, and although I know Cesar Milan, “Dog Whisperer”, is frowned upon in the service dog and positive reinforcement community, given the opportunity to attend his fundamental training courses, (monetary value of $12,000), I took the generous offer and attended.
I have shadowed many different trainers with different styles to range from Todd Langston and Colleen Steckoff, (who follow TCW), to Abby Bird and Carol Adams, (also ABC alumni), Kim Katella (service dog trainer), and Natalee Marick, (positive reinforcement ADI trainer).
I follow trainers such as Karen Pryor, Ian Dunbar, Sara Carson, and Pat Miller. I highly recommend the book “Don’t Shoot the Dog” by Karen Pryor.
– 2012 – present Founder of nonprofit, Heroic Tails, Beaufort, SC – trains service dogs.
– 2016 – 2018 Founder and Owner, JC The Canine Consultant, Las Vegas, NV – training, pack walks, boarding
– 2018 – 2019 General Manager, Blaine Kennels, Blaine, MN – Boarding, Training, Daycare, Grooming
– 2019 – Present Founder and Owner, Dog Austin, Austin TX – Training, Day Care, Pack walks, Boarding
