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I am truly blessed! I was born with a God-given gift to relate well with both people and animals, and it has become my mission to share that skill in bettering the lives of both. Through Canine Behavior Counseling I am fulfilling that mission in training problem dogs, and improving their relationship with their owners. The resulting pride, joy and happiness in both the dog and owner is what I celebrate most after my counseling sessions.

My animal-loving and training background began as a child growing up on a small Quarter Horse Farm in Cincinnati, Ohio. I was surrounded by all sorts of animals, and cared for many pets. But, growing up on a horse farm meant the primary work was in caring for the horses. I not only cared for registered Quarter Horses, I trained them and competed at the highest levels in AQHA shows and competitions throughout the country for over 20 years. Of course, dogs were always at my side and I also volunteered my time supporting my mother’s efforts at the local Animal Shelter, where she was President. The “problem” dogs that were otherwise hard to find homes for found their way to our house. That’s how I recognized my gift for training dogs, developed my understanding of their behavior, and reapplied the approach of positive reinforcement I utilized effectively raising and training horses.

Understanding and relating well to animals is only half the equation! I also work well with people, and have made a “second” career as a school teacher, professionally licensed youth soccer coach, and mom to my three children -- who are also growing up too fast, but fortunately have the same love of animals that I do!

Canine Behavior Counseling is now my full-time “passion” outside of my home life. Not only do I train problem dogs and work with their owners to find that “joyful balance” in the relationship between the two, I also volunteer support to the Animal Refuge League, foster neglected and/or abused dogs, and volunteer the services of “Annie”, a dog I adopted and trained as a registered Therapy dog, at a local retirement home. And, I still train horses -- but only as a hobby!

I’m busy, and I absolutely love what I do! If you have a “problem” dog, or simply want to improve the relationship you have with your dog, contact me, as I welcome the opportunity to help. There is nothing that gives me greater joy!