Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Sarah Connor

Dog trainer in Norfolk

https://clever-critters.com/sarah/

Service areas:

Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, North Suffolk

I am a 26-year old Accredited Dog Trainer with a passion for helping dogs and their humans live their best lives together.

In September of 2018, I founded a dog walking and pet-sitting business that I dubbed "Barks and Rec." I had begun attending CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy the month before in pursuit of a dog training certification. For several months, I attended both a local university (for film & theatre) and CATCH as a full-time student for both schools. In January 2019, after feeling dissatisfied with how dogs were being handled at the establishment I worked at, I decided to hit "pause" on my university education and dedicate all of my focus to completing my program with CATCH.

In August 2019, I took a leap and quit my part-time job to pursue running Barks and Rec full-time. I graduated from CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy in March 2020, with a Certificate in Dog Training and Behavior.

I very quickly fell in love with dog training, but soon realized that my education did not equip her to work with more severe behavioral issues. With a strong desire to help the dogs that seemed "hopeless," I set out looking for another avenue of education to give myself the tools I needed to address more complex behavior cases.

In July 2020, I joined the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and dove headfirst into the wealth of material that was provided to supporting members. Still, I wanted to learn more. I wanted to test my skills and further my knowledge in the field. So I decided to get accredited. After paying a fee and spending a grueling 60 days working on the extensive test, I passed with a score of 98 out of 100. I received my Accredited Dog Trainer (ADT) standing through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) on January 21, 2021.

In May of 2022, I accepted a job with Clever Critters, LLC. and now have the privilege of working with the most incredible group of women. I am continuing to see Behavior Modification and Basic Obedience cases through Clever Critters, and I am loving every second of it.

I am continuing to further my education and knowledge in the field every day through seminars, conferences, reading the most up-to-date, science-backed materials, and more. Dog training is my passion, and I owe all of it to my boy, Duke.

Certifications:

IAABC Accredited Dog Trainer, Graduate of CATCH Canine Trainer's Academy, Pet First Aid Certified

Dog training services include

Aggressive dog training
Reactive dog training
In home training
Puppy training

More info about Sarah Connor's dog training:

Basic Obedience; Behavior Modification; Puppy Training

Behavioral issue focus:

Fear-Based Aggression; Reactivity; Generalized Anxiety; Separation-Related Behaviors; Noise Phobias/Sound Sensitivities; Situational Phobias; Resource Guarding

Dog training methods:

I utilize a Force-Free, Positive Reinforcement training approach. My methodology is based off of up-to-date scientific research and the belief that all individuals (human or dog) have a right to learn in an intimidation-free setting.

Why I became a dog trainer:

Duke is the reason I decided to pursue dog training as a career. Duke was six months old when my family adopted him on December 31, 2014. Duke was terrified of everything, and despite his emaciated frame, he was so shut down that he didn't even want the hot dogs that were offered to him during the shelter visit. I promised Duke that I would do whatever it took to help him learn to love life again. This spurred my journey into studying canine psychology and behavior, and unknown to myself at the time, opened the door to a whole new career. It is because of Duke that I am where I am today. On December 16, 2020, Duke crossed the Rainbow Bridge. He began having complications with his prostate in October, and despite all the effort to save him, his health continued to decline. He's missed more than words can possibly express, but his legacy will live on forever. Because of Duke, I have dedicated my life to helping dogs just like him.

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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

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.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Sarah Connor

Certifications:

Dog training services include

More info about Sarah Connor's dog training:

Behavioral issue focus:

Dog training methods:

Why I became a dog trainer:

See The Best Dog Trainers In Norfolk

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See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Norfolk

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