I began my career 22 years ago working in a dog kennel, then moved in to veterinary medicine as a veterinary technician, before becoming a dog trainer and later a dog behavior consultant. I've worked at several local training facilities including Comfort Hill Kennel and Dogs Rock! Vermont. I have 10 years of experience in shelters doing behavior evaluations, dog to dog testing, creating enrichment and training plans, and counseling adopters.
I specialize in a wide variety of behavior issues, including human directed aggression. I love working with pet parents and their dogs to strengthen the human animal bond through positive training. I have extensive experience with rescue dogs and the unique issues they face - and am the proud guardian of three of my own. I have also owned and trained deaf, blind, and physically impaired dogs, and this is an area close to my heart.
Certifications:
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
Dog training services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- In home training
More info about Emily Lewis's dog training:
behavior modification, leash reactivity, service dog training, clicker training, cooperative care, low stress handling, counterconditioning, desensitization, private training, in home training, real world training
Behavioral issue focus:
I work with dogs who struggle with significant behavior concerns such as human directed aggression, dog to dog aggression, leash reactivity, resource guarding, separation anxiety and fear based behaviors. I also work with deaf and visually impaired dogs.
Dog training methods:
I meet with each new client for a behavior consultation which includes history taking, evaluation of the problem behavior(s), and providing an assessment and prognosis. This is followed by immediate homework recommendations and a custom training plan. My behavior intervention programs last 2-3 months and include private training sessions, remote coaching and email/text support between sessions. I utilize primarily positive reinforcement and follow the LIMA training model using the least intrusive and aversive plan possible for each dog.
Why I became a dog trainer:
Most trainers I know have a dog who influenced their choice in career. My inspiration was Nora, my heart dog. She was a rescue Rottweiler who had reactivity toward all new people. Loving her taught me so much, including the importance of good behavior support. While working in veterinary medicine I saw so many clients who needed that same support with their dogs, and it pushed me to pursue dog training.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
My favorite part of being a dog trainer is taking a complicated case and breaking it down in to small achievable goals for my clients. Watching them bond and build trust with their dog, while also reducing the unwanted behavior(s), brings me great joy.
My #1 dog training tip:
Remember that your dog isn't giving you a hard time, they are having a hard time. When we look at the causes of our dogs behavior, and approach the situation with empathy, we can make the most lasting change.
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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
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David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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