Erica graduated from the University of Illinois where she majored in Animal Science and eventually found a home at DuPage County Animal Care and Control. It was there that everything fell into place and Erica realized she wanted to play a role in the rehabilitation and improvement in the lives of shelter animals. She began her career as an intern there and soon became a fulltime Animal Caretaker b
efore transitioning to Animal Control Officer and eventually becoming the Kennel Supervisor. While there she helped establish training protocols and enrichment programs. She helped promote a calming effect on the animals in the shelter by playing relaxing music throughout the kennels and putting collar attachments called “Sniff-Its” on the dogs with essential oils. She also trained the dogs using positive reinforcement. She remained at DCACC helping animals for more than 9 years. Erica continued her love of working with animals when she graduated with distinction from Karen Pryor Academy’s Dog Trainer Professional program as a KPA Certified Training Partner. She is now a lead trainer with A Sound Beginning Program and is also a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers. From her years of experience at the shelter, Erica understands how to read animal body language and the power behind positive reinforcement. The combination of this experience and training allows Erica to work with families to help build a trusting relationship with their new family member. She enjoys teaching families how to communicate with their dog. Erica currently shares her home (zoo) with her husband, newborn daughter, Dad, 2 lab mixes, a lhasa mix, an african grey parrot, blue and gold macaw, chinchilla and a turtle! Services Offered:
- Private, in-home training for puppies and adult dogs
- Group classes offered through A Sound Beginning Program at Animal Care League in Oak Park, IL
- Puppy classes at Animal Care League in Oak Park, IL
