In The Family

Whether it was “tucking her horse into bed” each night or engineering a pully system to get her orthopedically-challenged dog to the 2nd floor of her house, Catherine has always seen animals as part of the family. All of her dogs sleep in her bed, lounge on the furniture, and pre-rinse all of the dishes. Even though dogs have 4 legs, Catherine strongly feels they deserve the same care and education as 2 legged family members. This includes clear communication, fair expectations, and humane consequences. Why use fear, intimidation, or pain if you don’t have to? (LIMA)

Simple & Logical Approach

Many of her human clients often say they are the ones getting the training, instead of the dog. Once the dogs receive clear achievable instructions, they are quick to meet our expectations. Next, being able to understand what the dog is communicating back, we can arrange their environment for success, desensitize them to daily stressors, and counter condition their response to triggers.

Education

Catherine’s formal education as a dog trainer began at the Animal Behavior College. After several years of professional training under her belt, she applied to the Karen Pryor Academy, a principle in the field of animal training and a recognized world leader in maker-based positive reinforcement. After attending the 6-month program and completing the examination process, she received the widely respected Certified Training Professional credentials. Her volunteer time on the Board of Directors and current role of Vice President of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers Foundation, allows her to network with top positive reinforcement trainers and scientist to keep current with the newest research.

Experience

Between employment at both Town & Country Veterinary Services and Carolina Ranch Animal Hospital and Resort, she has trained thousands of dogs. Formats have included private lessons, group classes, day training, and board and train. Some of the dogs have been blind, deaf, or required orthopedic assistance. Not only has she helped countless families develop well-mannered pets, she has also trained many sports enthusiast for competition in Agility, Rally, and Treibball.

More Education

She is committed to continuing her education, including regularly attending behavior conferences and training seminars, earning additional certifications, and staying current on the most humane techniques to bring up-to-date information to her students and their parents.

Her Pack

Catherine has lived with and owned a variety of dogs including a Pug, Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Canaan, Löwchen, and Jack Russell Terrier. She is not prejudice against breeds and is willing to work with any dog.

Guarantee

Because dogs are living creatures, not robots, Teacher’s Pet does not guarantee end results. Doing so would be unethical. However, Catherine will provide you insight into your dog and be honest if your needs are outside of her skill set. At that point, she will help you find your next Teacher.