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Behind the Treat Pouch

YONA RAPPAPORT, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CSB-D

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Love dogs? Me too!
 

Science At Play is founded on over 10 years of industry knowledge and personal development of science-based dog training methods. By utilizing these modern techniques, we can unleash the key to developing your dog’s skills while managing unwanted behaviors. Through demonstration, clear instruction and collaborative coaching, you will gain an in-depth understanding of how to build an environment that reinforces desired behaviors and ultimately sets up your dog for long-term success.

My methods and recommendations will always be free of pain, force or intimidation. These elements work against our training goals and can cause detrimental side effects to your dog as well as your relationship. My unique training program focuses on identifying your dog’s body language & communication skills, custom tailoring a plan that considers your lifestyle & schedule, and implementing specific steps to achieve success. With this new foundation in place, you will develop a special communication-based relationship, enhance your dog’s natural abilities, and teach them exciting new skills that benefit everyone.

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Education

CERTIFICATIONS, COURSES, CONFERENCES, WORKSHOPS

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Educational Workshops

SUMMER COHORT VIRTUAL 2021

Shelter Behavior and Enrichment Conference- Shelter Playgroup Alliance

VIRTUAL 2021

Lemonade Conference - IAABC & FDSA

VIRTUAL 2021

Living and Learning with Animals with Dr. Susan Friedman

WINTER 2021

Clicker Expo LIVE

VIRTUAL 2021

Karen Pryor Academy

DUBLIN 2020

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Conference

VIRTUAL 2020

Shelter Foster Dog Apprenticeship Program

CHARLOTTESVILLE SPCA 2020

Canine Science Symposium

SF STATE UNIVERSITY 2019

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Summit

SACRAMENTO SPCA 2019

Certification for Professional Dog Trainers

KNOWLEDGE ASSESSED 2019

K9 Nose Work Shelter Project

MARIN HUMANE 2019

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Summit

SACRAMENTO 2018

Clicker Expo Live

VIRTUAL 2022

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Handling Workshop, Handling Instructor

PASADENA HUMANE 2022

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Handling Workshop, Handling Instructor

SAN FRANCISCO SPCA 2022

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Pre-Conference & Conference

OAKLAND JUNE 2022

Fear Free Shelters Core Modules & Bonus Courses

July 2022

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Handling Workshop, Handling Instructor

WISCONSIN HUMANE OCTOBER 2022

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Safe Handling Workshop, Handling Instructor

SAN JOSE ANIMAL SERVICES MARCH 2023

Shelter Playgroup Alliance Handling Workshop, Handling Instructor

GIGI'S, OHIO MAY 2023

Certified Shelter Behavior - Dog

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ANIMAL BEHAVIOR CONSULTANTS, MAY 2023

Canine Science Symposium

VIRTUAL 2023

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History

HOW I GOT HERE

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. 

Meet My Pets!

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Charlie

MINI SCHNAUZER

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Chicle

BUDGIE

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Addie

PIT MIX

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