“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 want to 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.

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

By prioritizing your puppy’s emotional and physical safety, Slowcialization lays the groundwork for a lifelong bond built on trust and security.

Unlike typical puppy or obedience classes, Slowcialization rethinks traditional approaches and introduces a more ethical, holistic way of raising a secure, confident young dog. Most unwanted behaviors stem from pain or insecurity, so the focus is on relationship-building, helping your puppy feel safe, and supporting their ability to trust the world around them.

This program supports dogs and their humans through the challenging adolescent period with a blend of online and in-person learning. It focuses on building trust, calm, and confidence while guiding dogs through exploration, boundary-testing, and developing self-control — all without coercion, fear, or force, and with careful attention to how overstimulation and over-exercise impact behavior.

You’ll gain practical tools and a deeper understanding of your adolescent dog, helping create a smoother, more connected transition into adulthood. Through relationship-focused exercises, enrichment, and confidence-building, this class offers a holistic, ethical approach to raising emotionally healthy, well-rounded adult dogs.

LLLW is designed for human-canine teams who have completed my Puppy or Adolescent programs and are ready to turn walks into calm, engaging, and confidence-building experiences.

Many common walking practices — heeling, pulling, correcting, or rushing — can create physical and emotional stress, often leading to unwanted behaviors. Small, thoughtful changes to your dog’s environment, equipment, and routine can make a meaningful difference.

This program focuses on long, loose leash walking, using thoughtful techniques that support your dog’s well-being while building clear communication and trust. Together, you’ll create a relaxed, confident walking partnership.