“Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge”
– Charles Darwin

Dog training in the U.S. is unregulated, which means anyone can call themselves a trainer. Few study the science behind behavior — but I do, because understanding how dogs learn changes everything.

I never stop learning. Science isn’t static; it grows every day. I’m currently enrolled in advanced studies in canine behavior, psychology, care, communication, and postural analysis — and I’m considering adding myotherapy next.

My goal is to share this knowledge with dog guardians who want an ethical, science-based approach to raising and living with their dogs.

Whatever challenges you and your dog face, I’m here to help — and if something falls outside my expertise, I’ll connect you with a trusted, like-minded professional.

Dog brains thrive on curiosity and choice. That’s why I created our fully fenced sensory garden and scent-rich basement — spaces filled with changing textures, sounds, and objects that invite natural exploration and calm busy minds.

Sensory enrichment supports both mental and physical wellbeing, easing stress and building confidence through gentle challenges and discovery. A confident dog is a calmer, happier dog — and that means fewer unwanted behaviors at home.

In this “command-free” zone, we get to simply observe — how your dog moves, explores, and communicates. Subtle posture shifts or hesitations can reveal hidden tension or discomfort that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Many dogs live with pain or unease that shows up as stress or reactivity. Together, we can uncover what your dog needs to feel better — and help them find comfort in their own body again.

At Mutt Season in East Calais, VT, dogs get to be dogs again. Your well-socialized, cat-friendly pup can enjoy an exclusive, one-dog-at-a-time stay in a peaceful, natural setting — guided by Stevie, our young Bordoodle girl and resident canine wellness expert.

Four acres of fenced lawn, meadows, wooded trails, and a swimmable pond give dogs space to explore, play, and relax. Every corner of this retreat is designed to support mental stimulation, calm, and gentle stress relief.

All stays are carefully managed and exclusive: no rotating packs, no chaotic playrooms, just structured, dog-centered care. Each new dog goes through a two-step assessment to ensure safety, comfort, and a low-stress environment.

My goal is to make every dog feel seen, supported, and at ease — so each visit is restorative, enjoyable, and a mini retreat for the mind and body.

NEW CLASSES STARTING JANUARY 2026

PPF combines online and in-person learning to guide humans through the delicate first months with a new puppy. These classes provide information, expectation-setting, and emotional support to help you navigate this critical stage with confidence and understanding.

Unlike typical puppy start or obedience classes, PPF challenges traditional approaches and introduces a more ethical, holistic way of raising a secure, confident young dog. Most unwanted behavior stems from pain or insecurity, so we focus on relationship-building, making your puppy feel safe, and helping them trust the world around them.

Get on the list for puppy parent resources and updates on when PPF starts again — and for now, enjoy my Letter to New Puppy Parents.

NEW CLASSES STARTING EARLY 2026

PACE supports dogs and their humans through the challenging adolescent period with a blend of online and in-person learning. The program focuses on building trust, calm, and confidence while guiding dogs through exploration, testing boundaries, and learning self-control — all without coercion, fear, or force.

We address how over-excitement, over-exercise, and overstimulation can negatively affect your dog’s physical and emotional well-being. Through relationship-focused exercises, enrichment, and confidence-building, PACE introduces a holistic, ethical approach to raising emotionally healthy, well-rounded adult dogs.

Stay tuned to learn when PACE begins and start supporting your adolescent dog in a way that honors their emotional, physical, and cognitive needs.

LLLW is designed for dogs who have completed Puppy or Adolescent programs and are ready to transform walks into calm, engaging, and confidence-building experiences. Many common walking practices — heeling, pulling, correcting, or rushing — create stress and discomfort for dogs, both physically and mentally, and often lead to unwanted behaviors. The good news is that small, easy adjustments to your dog’s environment and routine can significantly reduce these behaviors and make walks far more enjoyable for both of you.

This program focuses on long, loose leash walking, proper equipment, and techniques that support your dog’s well-being while fostering clear communication, connection, and trust. By building a strong partnership on the leash, humans learn to guide their dogs with kindness and clarity, and dogs learn to stay confident, engaged, and calm in any environment.

Let’s turn everyday walks into opportunities for learning, enrichment, and connection.