03/12/2023
Hi Instagram! My name is Leah, and I’m a former zookeeper current dog trainer. I’ve spent the past 4 years working as a zookeeper at Naples Zoo, but all of that changed when I decided to start my own dog training business!
My goal is to take my Naples Zoo animal training to the four-legged family members of my community.
How I got here:
🐾 Originally from CT I moved to FL in 2015, and earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from FGCU
🐾 In 2018 I started my career as a zookeeper
🐾 I quickly fell in love with the animal training that we get to do as zookeepers
🐾 I trained with a variety of animals including: macaws, armadillos, skunks, servals, a red fox, a clouded leopard, and a cape porcupine
🐾 I learned to apply the science of animal behavior to my training, utilizing positive reinforcement based training
🐾 While at the zoo, I attended a workshop at Natural Encounters Inc. and since leaving I’ve continued my education by attending ClickerExpo Live, a virtual conference for dog trainers, both of these opportunities gave me the chance to learn from some of the top names in animal training
🐾 In 2022 my fiancé and I rescued a Malinois mix named Mango, and all of my training experience naturally transitioned into our home
🐾 Mango and I faced some challenges in the beginning stages, but seeing the progress we were able to make through training inspired me to start this business. I want other homes in my community to experience this progress.
The animals we love have a lot to say if we know how to listen. My goal for this business is to take my unique zoo animal training experience and help people introduce it into their homes. By using two way communication and positive reinforcement, I believe that every dog owner can create behaviors and relationships that will last a lifetime.
