I have a background in biology and chemistry. Growing up, I thought I was going to be a veterinarian. I lived on a farm and took care of the animals, including our dogs, horses, cows, cats, turkeys and chickens. I went in a different direction after graduate school and I entered the environmental science workforce as a risk assessor. I have a geriatric kitty named Oscar and a German Shepherd named Baxter. My husband and I enjoy going camping with Baxter and exploring Minnesota parks.
Certifications:
CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed), CSAT (Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer)
Dog training services include
- Reactive dog training, Aggressive dog training, Puppy training, In home training
More info about Vanessa Niemi's dog training:
I train obedience behaviors and do AKC testing for Manners, Tricks, and Canine Good Citizen. I do behavioral assessments and treatment plans for a variety of behaviors such as separation anxiety, fear, aggression, frustration, puppy training, and distraction training.
Behavioral issue focus:
I specialize in fear, reactivity, frustration, and aggression towards other dogs and humans. I also specialize in Separation Anxiety. I help guardians with puppy training. I deal with loose leash walking and other manners and obedience issues.
Dog training methods:
First of all, I am a positive dog trainer, meaning, I do not use aversives in training, such as choke collars and leashes, prong collars, or shock collars. I use Grisha Stewart's Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), Malena DeMartini-Price's Separation Anxiety training, and Michael Shikashio's Aggression protocols to name a few. I perform an initial assessment and come up with a treatment plan.
Why I became a dog trainer:
I have always loved animals. While my early career took me away from a job with animals, it is not a surprise to anyone that I now train dogs. My first dog as an adult was a German Shepherd rescue named Ralphie. He was incredibly dog reactive, so I understand the human emotions and struggles when you love a reactive dog. I wanted to help people. I had so much fun training my own dog, Baxter, that I knew I wanted to be a trainer. I just always felt that doing behavioral work with dogs who had issues was more in my wheelhouse.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
My favorite part about being a dog trainer is seeing dogs learn. I love it when I see that "aha!" moment on their faces. Seeing that look on a human's face is a good motivator too. lol.
My #1 dog training tip:
A dog cannot think and learn when they are overwhelmed by emotion (fear, anxiety, excitement). So start with calming and focusing exercises.
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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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