I've been the Owner and Director of Training for K9 Home Schooling since 1999, which provides force free/clicker training methods in southeast Michigan.   My love of all things dogs began when I was a small child with my first dog, a collie named Candy.  After raising my 3 children,  I decided to pursue a career as a dog professional.  

I'm a nationally recognized Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Certified Therapy Animal Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).   Dog Behavior Consultants are required to demonstrate competency in five core areas including  assessment and intervention strategies, counseling skills, behavioral science, knowledge of animal behavior and species-specific knowledge in order to obtain certification through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.   Therapy Animal Consultants have expertise in all areas of Animal Assisted Therapy including program development .  I've completed advanced certification programs in canine behavioral studies and stay current by attending seminars by certified trainers, behaviorists, veterinarians and other credentialed experts. 

I teach companion obedience, specialized puppy programs, therapy dog training programs, charm school, outdoor adventures, socialization outings  for puppies and adult dogs. I offer behavior consultations for puppies and adult dogs.  I have 18 years of experience working with complex behavior problems and use science based methods and treatment plans. To support dog professionals in my area, I offer seminars and workshops for dog trainers, training groups,veterinarians, groomers, shelter/rescue workers, dog walkers and daycare workers.     

My passion for working as a Therapy Dog Team began in 2000 with my beloved labrador Leo.  In 2003 I worked with staff members to develop and launch a Therapy Dog Program at Chelsea Community Hospital called Paws-itive Comfort. I coordinated and launched R.E.A.D. (Reading Education Assistance Dog) Programs at the Ann Arbor and Chelsea District Libraries as well as various Elementary Schools.  Over the years I've been blessed with amazing Therapy Dog Partners, Leo, Faye, Enzo and Sherman.  I work as a Training Consultant and Tester for various Service Dog and Therapy Dog Organizations. For the past 10 years I've worked closely with medical professionals and educators who utilize a Therapy Dog at  their work place or in Animal Assisted Play Therapy.  I've raised, trained and placed Therapy Dogs who work in medical facilities and private practices around the US.   

I've lived in Chelsea, Michigan since 2000 where I raised my family and now live with my husband John, Labrador Retriever Hendrix and Newfoundland Marshall.