Meet Sarah

I’ve been training dogs and their humans in the Upper Valley since 2007 but my love for dogs has been a life-long passion. I don’t remember a time in my life when there was not a dog or several dogs at my side. Living a life surrounded by dogs has given me a true love for them and a deep understanding of how to help them live alongside humans.

My training journey began when I adopted a 9 week old Lab/Pitbull Mix named Zeke from a local rescue organization. Zeke was a very willful and independent puppy that challenged me at every step of the way. Entering him into training classes was my first introduction to formal ‘positive reinforcement’ dog training and a network of trainers that were truly invested in the success of their clients. And as a result, my love of dogs expanded into a love of dog training.

After Zeke and I worked for months on everything from basic skills to behavior modification for leash reactivity, separation anxiety, and fear issues, I decided to take the leap to become a certified trainer. I completed the requirements to become a Certified Dog Trainer through the Animal Behavior College which provided me with a strong foundation of academic and theoretical knowledge about dogs and how to train them through positive reinforcement dog training methods. This program also provided me with the opportunity to work hands-on with a variety of dogs and their humans under the guidance and support of a professional mentor.

In 2007, having completed my certification, I began teaching positive reinforcement training classes at a local doggie daycare, boarding and training facility in the Upper Valley of NH and VT.

After a few years I decided to step out on my own to offer a variety of classes at a local training space and in-home private consultations. Through the years I’ve worked with a variety of dogs with a wide range of training needs from basic manners to fear, anxiety, and reactivity issues. My approach to training is to help my clients learn how to communicate with their dogs through reward-based methods that allow the dog to become a thinking partner in the process. I feel learning to speak “dog” is the essential element for a successful and long-lasting training result.

I am committed to continuing my knowledge and education of the most recent, science-based training methods and approaches in order to provide my clients with the best support possible. Therefore, each year I attend seminars and workshops with other dog trainers and animal behaviorists to stay up-to-date on the most recent techniques and research regarding training and behavior modification.