Kelsey is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she studied psychology and sociology including Applied Behavior Analysis. She worked with individuals with special needs for 10 years before she expanded her interest in behavior to canines. Starting as a foster, she began working closely with a local rescue organization where she held the position of Training Coordinator.
Her two high energy, large breed rescue dogs Jaxson and Cher, each have behavioral concerns of their own, that have needed intensive training and environmental management. Kelsey has a unique first-hand understanding of the needs of fearful, anxious and reactive dogs as these are some of the needs of her own dogs. Kelsey has continued to expand her education to provide the most up to date methods and care for her clients. Kelsey has completed Aggression in Dogs Master course, attended conferences such as Aggression in Dogs and APDT, she is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT, was one of the first 50 trainers to attain the Family Dog Mediation certification, holds certifications in Fit Dog, CGC, Canine Enrichment, and Reactivity.
Certifications:
CCPDT-KA, FDM, Certified Reactivity Specialist, AKC CGC Evaluator, AKC Fit Dog Instructor
Dog training services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- In home training
- Puppy training
More info about Kelsey Shank's dog training:
Semi-private classes at-center including AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, AKC Fit Dog, Basic Manners, Reactivity Club, and more. Private lessons in-home (location dependent), at-center or virtually for dogs of all ages- although my specialty is reactivity, I also take cases involving fear, cooperative care, leash skills, recall, polite greetings, trick training, enrichment consultations, and more.
Behavioral issue focus:
My passion is reactivity cases but I also take on cases where the dog is diagnosed with anxiety, displaying fear-based behaviors including aggression, relationship building, confidence building, exercise, resource guarding
Dog training methods:
Always force free, relationship-based positive reinforcement training methods. I focus on communication between guardian and dog so that their bond strengthens and fears subside. I focus on teaching coping skills to help you and your pup navigate our modern world together successfully. Private lessons begin with a 2 hour behavior assessment followed by a package of 4 1-hour private sessions with guardian and pup. Additional lessons can be added on as well. Semi-Private classes begin with an in-person tour and evaluation followed by 1- hour sessions once a week for 5 weeks; there may be up to 5 dogs in the class total.
Why I became a dog trainer:
2019
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
Helping my clients and their pups live safe, happy, and healthy lives together by building their social relationships, communication and enrichment.
My #1 dog training tip:
Dogs learn in "do's" not "don'ts"- communication is key.
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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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