About Carol
I believe in clear communication, flexibility and humor. Respecting each individual dog owner's needs, emotions and lifestyle along with tailoring training programs that best suit each dog is what leads to success. My personal respect, understanding and love of dogs, along with the pride and enjoyment of seeing them (and their families) succeed is my greatest reward.
Specializing in canine behaviors and teaching obedience since 1985, my in-home training sessions and consultations have covered everything from simple housebreaking and walking on a leash to aggression, anxiety, destructive behaviors and much more. I have had the privilege of helping to create peace, stability and happiness for thousands of dogs and their families.
Working closely with German Shepherds, learning about their drives, needs and how to maximize their extensive abilities, was how it all began. I was awestruck by the capabilities of these canines and have had them in my home ever since. They continually amaze me with how much they can learn and do. Observing and learning how the dogs communicated, on every level, within their pack was remarkable. I realized then, that we humans need to teach our dogs in a way that they understand naturally to build respect, trust, confidence and obedience.
I design training/handling programs and conduct seminars for local animal shelters and rescue organizations. My goal is to help organizations to better understand and work more effectively with many miunderstood dogs and ultimately to match them with an appropriate new permanent home. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of witnessing hundreds of unwanted, unruly, destructive and often aggressive canines transform into loving, clam, stable and desirable dogs that anyone would be proud to have in their home. My personal animals have all been adopted through such agencies.
I am a certified judge for AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), the evaluator for the Saddleback Memorial Hospital Therapy Dog Program, a professional member of IACP (International Association of Canine Professionals) and have been trained in canine first aid and CPR.
My Philosophy
Teaching your dog in a manner that builds respect, trust and confidence. Establishing leadership is your first and utmost responsibility to your dog.
Communicating with and training your dog in a way that they understand is essential. Dogs learn through body language, scent, vocalizations (not words) and structure. They are reactionary and do not analyze. We must learn our dog's language of communication to help them easily and clearly understand our human expectations.
Dogs live in a hierarchy. The pack members' well being depends on their leader. Their leader is confident and calm, sets clear boundaries and is highly trusted and respected. Your leadership along with your dog's respect and trust are a must to create stable, consistent and acceptable behaviors for your dog.
Although they are all canines, dogs are also individual and unique. Training should be tailored to meet each dog's specific needs, personality and temperament to be most effective. I believe with knowledge, the right attitude and patience you can have the dog that you desire.
Four Basic Necessities for your dog:
- Leadership must be clear. Once your dog understands to be subordinate to you, it will be comfortable with its place as a follower. With this accomplished, you will see many behavioral issues disminish on their own.
- Exercise is not a treat, but a necessity for your dog. Daily walks and play, when done correctly, emphasize your leadership role and constructively manage your dog's energy.
- Obedience training teaches your dog to listen and respond unconditionally in addition to building greater communication and a stronger bond between leader and follower.
- Dogs are social, pack animals and need Companionship. Living in your family with boundaries, rules and a clear place status, simulates your dog's natural pack instincts. Being part of your daily routine will create a relaxed, happy and healthy dog.