I began my animal career as a zookeeper in St. Louis where I trained a large variety of animals, including bears, big cats, sea lions, arctic foxes, river otters and birds.

After leaving the zoo, I went on to manage my first cageless dog kennel.  It was there that I gained my experience in learning how dogs communicate and being able to understand their body language and pack behavior.  I worked closely with the trainer on staff and gained a lot of knowledge through her.

After moving to California, I began working with the American Humane Association where I helped insure the safety of animals in the entertainment industry.  This allowed me to observe some of the top trainers in southern California and to learn from their many years of experience.

I was able to put that knowledge into practice when I was hired as a manager of Bed N’ Bones, a dog boarding and daycare ranch in San Juan Capistrano.  I graduated with honors from Animal Behavior College as a certified dog trainer and began a dog training program at the kennel.

Finally, I continue my work with dogs at the Pasadena Humane Society; previously as an adoptions counselor and currently in the behavior department, teaching classes and helping to assess the behavior of the shelter dogs.  I am also certified as an evaluator for the AKC Canine Good Citizenship program.

Dog training is something that I love, and there is nothing more rewarding than watching the owner light up when he/she finally understands why their dog is reacting the way he/she does, and watching a dog learn to listen to his/her owner.  With consistency and a little time every day, your dog can be one who will listen to and respect you as the pack leader.