I first realized the power and impact of training in 2012. At the time, I was working at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, observing Wouter Stellaard, a world-renowned animal trainer, train rats to complete an obstacle course. The five rats all named after different types of cheese, took the stage together. Four scurried around a pool, while one swam across, using the shortcut to get to the end faster. Watching the training process, and listening to the dialogue that occurred after every session, sparked a lifelong passion for the science of behavior. It was my lightbulb moment. Hi, my name is Sarah Duggar, owner of Good Dog & Co.,an animal trainer that applies the art and science of positive reinforcement to improve animal welfare, teach confidence in a variety of conditions, reinforce your bond with your pet, and equip your pet with the necessary skills for achieving a well-adjusted relationship with you, their human, and the world around them. I have more than a decade of experience studying the behavior of animals, and applying science-backed methods to most effectively and compassionately train them. Some highlights of my careerwhich has taken me from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to the Denver Zoo to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springsinclude working with tigers (my favorite animal), starting programs for animals with no history of positive-reinforcement training, being chosen to present at The Animal Behavior Management Alliance conference, and continuing to learn from experts in the field, like Stellaard, Steve Martin, and Dr. Susan Friedman. Over the years, I've trained loose-leash walking with warthogs, targeted a serval to jump 12 feet in the air, crate-trained a groundhog, and taught penguins to heelseriously. I've become fluent in the language of all animals (just call me a modern-day Dr. Dolittle), and now I bring that education and experience to train the animals we interact with most on a daily basis: our family pets. Whether you want to walk your dog without being pulled, stop your cat from urinating outside the litter box, or teach your parrot to step on your hand without biting, I work with you and your pet to meet your behavioral goals. When an animal realizes their behavior matters and they're happy about itthe best, most heartwarming part about being an animal trainer, in my opinionthat's where change happens. Through our training sessions, you'll get an up-close look at how small wins stack up to a lifetime of success and a fulfilling relationship with your furry (or feathery or scaly!) best friend. Education, Certifications, and Achievements: Bachelor of Science in Zoology, Ohio State University, 2014 Certificate of Excellence, Dr. Susan Friedman's Living and Learning with Animals: The Fundamental Principles and Procedures of Teaching and Learning, 2015 Presenter, Choice-Based Training Improves Animal Welfare and Program Participation in Ambassador Animals, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance Conference, 2017 Certified Training Partner, Karen Pryor Academy's Professional Dog Training Program, 2021 Featured on The Animal Behavior Management Alliance's Facebook page for Behavior Month Cooperative Care Week Continuing education with experts in the field through Clicker Expo, Living and Learning with Animals Auditor, NEI Tec Talks, and more.
Certifications:
Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)
Dog training services include
- Reactive dog training
- In home training
- Off leash training
- Puppy training
More info about Sarah Dugger's dog training:
Day Training, Coaching (Virtual and In-Home), & Pet Au Pair Service (Pet sitting + Training combo): Confidence building, establishing and strengthening cues, cooperative care (vet, groomer, nail trims, bathing, crate training, etc.), replacing problem behaviors with alternate behaviors, bond strengthening between pet parent and pet, introducing new pets to the home, and more.
Behavioral issue focus:
Pulling on the leash, barking, avoidance behaviors, separation distress, issues between pets in multi-pet households, biting, scratching, anxiety during handling, ignoring cues, urinating or defecating in inappropriate spaces
Dog training methods:
Begin with a consultation to assess medical history, learning history, and the conditions surrounding behaviors through a Behavior Analysis lens. Establish short term and longterm goals before creating a training plan for the individual animal. With an individualized training package, we will practice two-way communication with the animal during positive reinforcement training sessions to shape skills and cues. In addition to training, we will incorporate thoughtful environment arrangement to manage behavior problems.
Why I became a dog trainer:
I recognized a need in the pet owner community for ethical, positive, and skillful trainers. In my "zoo bubble" I was surrounded by the best of the best trainers, but in our everyday society, there is an overwhelming amount of traditional and behavior-suppressing methods. I feel motivated to show people that there is a better way, and that we can get results that leave both the pet parent and the pet happier and more bonded.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
Witnessing my clients have success with their pet
My #1 dog training tip:
In order to be a dog trainer, you must also be a dog listener. Learn how to speak their language by observing their body language, and then you can build towards two-way communication.
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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you
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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