I am an applied animal behaviorist. After graduating from Emory in 2010, I knew I wanted to work with animals, but was unable to decide between science and husbandry so I picked both. For the last decade I have divided my career between animal research and hands on animal care. I found that behavior consulting was the best way to share my love of behavioral science in a way that would make a real impact on individual animals and improve animal welfare. I became an associate certified applied animal behaviorist in 2018 through the Animal Behavior Society. Looking to start her own business one year later, I jumped at the opportunity to team up with Amy and return to the warmth of Atlanta, GA. When I'm not thinking about animals, I'm photographing them, painting them, or writing about them.
Certifications:
ACAAB
Dog training services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Reactive dog training
- In home training
- Puppy training
More info about Lillian Ciardelli's dog training:
At Behave Atlanta, I work in tandem with certified trainer Amy Cambell. We provide behavior consultations & training for cats and dogs both virtually and in-home (depending on location). These can include everything from basics for new pet owners, to more complicated issues like aggression or separation anxiety. We can help with potty training, basic manners, as well as desensitization to certain triggers and helping dogs adapt to a new city environment. We primarily do in-home training sessions with clients present (following a virtual consult) but are hoping to offer more group classes both on line and in person!
Behavioral issue focus:
For dogs, we most commonly help with fear & anxiety, leash and general reactivity, resource guarding, separation anxiety, and dog-cat dynamics. With cats, we most often help with litter box issues and inter-cat aggression.
Dog training methods:
We always start with a virtual behavior consultation (this includes an overview of the behavior of concern, as well a management & training plan for how to address the issue). If clients are within service range, we offer in-person training packages to help guide them through the process. If they are out of range, we offer virtual training or try to help them connect with a local trainer who can implement the plan.
Why I became a dog trainer:
Technically I'm a behaviorist, not a trainer. But training is a huge part of my work! I wanted to be able to communicate with animals. And I wanted to help other people learn how to communicate with their pets, so that they could better interpret their needs and have a stronger bond.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
Seeing how proud clients are when their dog (or cat) learns something new. Or the lightbulb that goes off when we are able to explain what's driving their pet's behavior. Also just hearing what people name their pets!
My #1 dog training tip:
Notice when your pet is doing something right. What we consider "bad behavior" is often irritating, loud, and just very noticeable. What we consider "good behavior" is often quiet, calm, and if you don't try to look for it you'll ignore it! It's important to acknowledge it not only so your pet understands that that behavior is "right" but because you need to realize when you're making progress!
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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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