My passion for dogs began at the age of nine when my dog, Zucchini, taught me the importance of kindness, love, and attention. After reading tons of books on dogs and volunteering with animals all through my childhood, I went to Oberlin College where I studied biology and organic chemistry. During my college years, I spent my free time volunteering at the local dog shelter. It was then that I adopted her first soul-mate-dog, a pit bull mix named Butch who taught me so much about the innumerable ways that dogs can improve the human condition.
Upon graduation from college and excited to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, I worked as a veterinary technician. Despite my love of medicine, I discovered my passion was in the relationship with dogs. I left the veterinary field to start my own business called Merry Mutts. For 10 successful years, I combined my two greatest passions, mothering and dogs, as I ran off-leash dog park trips and boarded dogs in my home.
After adopting my second pitbull, Wookie, I was schooled in the ways anxiety can result in serious aggression. While striving to improve my understanding of Wookie and all dogs, their behavior, and the impact I can make on helping them integrate into our human world, I enrolled at the Northwest School of Canine Studies to become a certified dog trainer and behavior specialist. I applied my newly gained knowledge to help Wookie to become a happy, well-adjusted, and wonderful boy – not to mention eliminating his aggression. In 2013, I sold her company and joined The Pawsitive Packleader to continue to grow and develop in a great company. In 2014, I acquired The Pawsitive Packleader and have been helping dogs since.
Certifications:
Certificate in Canine Studies (CCS)
Dog training services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Reactive dog training
- In home training
- Off leash training
- Puppy training
More info about Katie Borton's dog training:
I offer in-home day training and coaching for companion dogs with all types of behavior challenges, obedience, and puppy rearing.
Behavioral issue focus:
I work with fearful, reactive, anxious, and aggressive dogs in addition to basic companion dog training.
Dog training methods:
I am a force-free, science-based, positive trainer. My process begins with an initial evaluation and is followed up with verbal or written training plans and written training instructions.
Why I became a dog trainer:
I wanted to understand and help more dogs and their people.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
The strengthening and fostering of relationships between dogs and their humans.
My #1 dog training tip:
Listen to your dog!
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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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