Behind the Treat Pouch
YONA RAPPAPORT, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CSB-D
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.
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
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!
Charlie
MINI SCHNAUZER
Chicle
BUDGIE
Addie
PIT MIX