Gloria Schmidt is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and Fear Free Certified Pet Professional (Elite Level).Prior to becoming a professional dog trainer, Gloria graduated with a degree in chemistry from UNC-Chapel Hill. She enjoyed her five years at the lab bench especially when contributing to drug discovery research at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. While there, she helped declare a clinical candidate with the FDA and co-authored seven journal articles for various pediatric diseases. In 2017, Gloria decided she was ready to get out of the (lab) rat race. She began working as a veterinary nurse for two years while simultaneously developing her professional dog training skills. Although she no longer actively runs chemistry experiments, she carries over that analytical thinking to each dog and owner who crosses her path. Gloria developed a strong interest in cooperative care while working as a veterinary nurse her long term goal is to bridge the communication gap between veterinary clinics, dog trainers, and owners. She also enjoys helping owners understand the why behind a dog's behavior so that everyone can be set up for success during training sessions. When not with clients, Gloria enjoys living her best Hobbit life with her husband John, border-collie pup Jackson, and fierce cat Penny. On the average day, you will find her curled up with the pets by the fireplace, sipping a cup of coffee, and immersed in a book (most likely about dog behavior). On the more adventurous days, you will find her downhill skiing or SCUBA diving with John.
Certifications:
CPDT-KA, Elite Fear Free Professional
Dog training services include
- In home training
- Puppy training
More info about Gloria SCHMIDT's dog training:
I do virtual and in-home private training lessons. Topics I am most passionate about include: cooperative care at the vet clinic, basic manners, puppy socialization, distraction training, pre-dog counseling, and family/children interactions.
Behavioral issue focus:
I work with on a range of behavior issues: desensitization with vet visits, reactive dogs, nervous dogs, and many others. I enjoy working with the owner and vet to determine the best approach for each individual dog.
Dog training methods:
I use a least invasive, minimally intrusive (LIMA) approach with all dogs. I typically use luring, capturing, and shaping to train behaviors. I prefer force free training over any other kind of methods. Since each owner/dog is an individual, I accomplish this training method by doing a consultation with the owners to discuss our plan moving forward. After the consultation, I prefer to complete a series of private training lessons in the environment where the dog's behavior is happening to see maximum results. I prefer for the owner to be present so that they can learn how to properly do the training themselves.
Why I became a dog trainer:
Dogs excite me. The animal-human bond fascinates me. I enjoy helping owners and dogs learn how to communicate with one another. I love seeing an owner's eyes light up when they understand why a certain behavior happens. I love seeing a dog get excited when they realize they are understood by a human.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
There is nothing more fun than watching an owner get excited about their dog's training. I love when owners ask, Why?
My #1 dog training tip:
Always carry treats and a dog squeaker. You will be ready for any training opportunity that's waiting around the corner.
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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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