Behind the Treat Pouch

I went to college thinking that my destiny was to work at a desk job until retirement. Slowly, I realized that sitting all day was just not for me and I began searching for animal related positions. I was hired at a doggie daycare in 2012 where I was exposed to hundreds of dogs over a span of 6 years. I was introduced to the concept of positive reinforcement dog training and the even more exciting idea of behavior modification. I was lucky enough to gain mentors and begin learning from amazing trainers through that facility. Having had hands on experience in playgroups, off leash group hikes, private training clients, and talking behavior with staff and clients, I began a deeper dive into the training world and started working towards certification.

​

I changed gears in 2018 to working with animals in the behavior department at the local municipal shelter. Here I gained a deeper understanding of body language, how to offer animals choice and consent and how to effectively coach volunteers and staff. Working in a shelter is a crucible; a place where skills and creativity are put to the test. It's a place where learning happens every day, on both ends of the leash and making every second count is paramount.

​

In the height of Covid-19, I attended Karen Pryor Academy, a rigorous, professional level, multi-species animal training course where I had the pleasure of studying under Nan Arthur.

​

After leaving the Contra Costa shelter in 2022, I've focused on taking behavior cases with private clients. When I'm not working with clients or caring for my own animals, I volunteer with two amazing non-profit organizations. Shelter Playgroup Alliance has worked tirelessly to create guidelines for running shelter playgroups using LIMA principles.

Humane Dog Training Advocates is a group of pet professionals who promotes modern, positive, humane and science-based dog training methods through education and advocacy.

​

Summer of 2022 has brought new opportunities in a new city; Science at Play has moved to Pasadena, CA. The majority of my time is spent with shelter dogs at Pasadena Humane Society while seeing a few clients when time permits.