Sara is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) through the Council for Certification of Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP), where she graduated with distinction, and a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT). Her professional affiliations include membership with the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and supporting membership with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).
She maintains her credentials and indulges her curiosity by attending webinars, conferences, and behavior programs and with leaders in evidence-based, humane behavior, neuroscience of dog training.
Evidence-based studies show that positive reinforcement is the most effective training method for a gold fish to a dog to a human. My studies and experience support this on a daily basis. Because I’m in the business of teaching our best friends, I use reward-based, force and fear free training methods that are both effective and kind in their application. This allows training to become a creative, fun game where “problems” become opportunities for new and better behavior along with strengthening your relationship with your dog.
Training sessions access and build on what naturally motivates your dog to act, teaches him what works, and gives him specific, easy-to-do alternatives to the stuff that doesn’t. I’ll build a foundation of essential skills that support specific training goals and set you up for a lifetime of successful and happy learning. And, the job’s not done until I show you how to keep it all running smoothly. Feel free to contact me for more in-depth information or with any questions. 805-845-8458 email.
During a life transition, I began walking a small group of dogs, which soon became a large, off-leash group of dogs. Unbeknownst to me, my career with canines had begun! Fascinated by behavior and unsatisfied by the many “common sense” ideas and practices too easily accepted, passed along as fact and generally applied, I decided to dig deeper and began an ongoing study of behavioral science – how animals, including humans, learn.
Improving the lives of dogs and their guardians is a dynamic, unfolding process. To start, it requires approaching every situation with an open mind (and heart), good training skills and a solid knowledge of learning science and how to apply it. Then compassion and science meet in the craft of non-invasive, reward-based training. Years ago the discovery of this training method, with its capacity to produce enthusiastic, happy learners quickly, rocked my world!
It took me a while to find my true calling as a dog trainer, so I bring a diverse set of skills and background to my work. Previous careers include teaching high-school English, retail and wholesale sales for outdoor industry leader Patagonia, and commercial copywriting, beat reporting and features writing. Teaching and coaching people in different capacities and circumstances has been a life through line, and discovering that animals are also enthusiastic learners has truly been a great joy. I currently live in Santa Barbara with my mystery-mix, Moki.
Cool tips and hot tricks—and other generally useful info—for living your best life with your best friend.
Rest assured, I refuse to barrage you with emails or sell your address. It’s not my style…and I’m way too busy training dogs and their people! 🙂
