About Us
Animals have always been a huge part of my life. I grew up in a house with an assortment of critters; I have cared for not just dogs and cats, but everything from gerbils, to birds, to reptiles. When a relative or neighbor needed someone to pet sit for them, I was always the first to eagerly volunteer. I was a year old when I got my first dog, a Border Collie named Cody. As my family tells it, when I met Cody, there was an instant bond. So strong, in fact, that I began to bark and howl like I was trying to communicate with him and the other dogs in our neighborhood. I like to think that this was the first indication that dog training was what I was made for!
While working on my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, I got a job in a pet store and became interested in positive reinforcement dog training. I pursued the position and worked as a trainer while I completed my degree. It was then I realized how similar the field of psychology and dog training were, and discovered my true passion in working with dogs. Over my career, I have worked as a dog walker, volunteered as a training coordinator for a rescue, and managed a training facility. After seven years in the industry, I received my CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. I am also a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Continuing education is extremely important to me to ensure I am able to provide my clients with a variety of techniques and up-to-date methods.
With Mischief and Manners, I hope to help dog owners learn to love the quirky, mischievous, and unique personalities of their dogs. Rather than fixating on “bad” behaviors, I strive to help my clients understand why their dogs act a certain way - whether it’s the ankle nipping of a Border Collie or the squeals of excitement when your Terrier sees a squirrel. Through positive reinforcement training, we can learn to effectively communicate with our canine companions without the use of force, harsh corrections, or physical punishment. Your pup can learn the necessary manners to thrive in our Human World, while embracing the traits that make them who they are!
