I became a certified Pro Dog Trainer through Absolute Dogs, founded by Tom Mitchell, veterinarian, veterinary behaviorist, and one of the most influential forces in modern dog training, and Lauren Langman, an internationally acclaimed agility champion who has represented Great Britain at the World Agility Championships. From there I continued my education with courses through Suzanne Clothier, Devon Dogs, Denise Fenzi, and the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy.
I am currently pursuing my Behavior Expert Diploma through Canine Behavior College under Tom Mitchell, a rigorous, science-forward program that has deepened everything I do. The program is a Level 6 Diploma in Clinical Canine Behavior in England which is academically equivalent to the final year of a university Bachelor’s degree with Honors in the U.S.
My approach is rooted in the behavioral science principles of Dr. Susan Friedman, one of the most respected voices in applied behavior analysis because understanding why behavior happens is the only place real change begins.
I've been working with dogs and their humans in the Fredericksburg area for years, in group classes, private consultations, and everything in between.
Every dog I've worked with has taught me something.
And in class, you won't just have me.
Jill and I met as two people in the same dog behavior and training course, both deep in the work of learning. Somewhere in there we became friends, and over time that friendship grew. She started helping in class, which made us closer still, until somewhere along the way she became someone I rely on, on the field as a co-instructor and as my friend in life.
Jill has a rare gift for reading dogs. She can watch a dog move across the field and tell you what it's feeling, what it's worried about, and what it needs next, whether that's one of my dogs at home or a dog walking into class for the very first time. She helps me shape the curriculum too, thinking through the games and the way we teach them so that every class lands the way it should.
She's also there before anyone arrives, helping me unload equipment and set up the field, and then she becomes something I can't teach: the soft place to land. When someone shows up new and nervous, unsure if they even belong here, Jill's calm, gentle energy meets them at the gate. People settle around her. Dogs do too.
On Saturday mornings, while I'm leading the group, Jill moves from team to team, answering questions, helping with handling, and catching the small moments that matter, so no one ever feels lost or left behind. She is salt of the earth, generous, and deeply compassionate. If you come to class, you'll know her quickly, and you'll be glad she's there just like I am.
