How long have you been working as a dog trainer?
I earned my certification in 2017 and have been training ever since.
What inspired you to become a dog trainer?
My 1st heart/soul dog Sauce inspired me to start my journey, but my 2nd heart/soul dog Spud truly helped me grow into the compassionate trainer and person I am today. Spud inspired my business name of “Sound Connection” because the relationship he and I shared was what I wanted to help my clients create with their own dogs, a connection built on trust, compassion and love.
What kind of training do you specialize in?
I love working with dogs who struggle with separation anxiety and reactivity.
What’s your favorite high-value snack? (For yourself)
Pickles, Chocolate covered gummy bears and Hot Cheetos
What is one accomplishment you’re especially proud of in your career?
Building my own business
Why do you swear by positive reinforcement?
(We know it works, but we want to hear your why!)
Positive, humane training is the only way I would ever want to train with another living being. Our animals are sentient beings who deserve compassion and a way to learn that doesn’t instill fear or anxiety.
Give us a tale of a training success that makes you do a happy dance every time you think about it.
I had the pleasure of overhearing a client explain a training technique that I had taught them to another dog owner. You always hope that the lessons and techniques you offer can stay with your clients long after classes are done.
What’s one piece of advice you wish every dog guardian knew?
Take a moment to breathe when it feels like training (or life) just feels hard. Reflect on the moment and think about what your dog may be trying to teach you- they come into our lives for a reason and are only there for a short time.
If you weren’t a dog trainer, what would you be doing instead?
Working in the veterinary field in some way! I really love medicine and understanding how our dog’s health affects their behaviors.
Give us a tale of a training success that makes you do a happy dance every time you think about it.
Honestly, it happens so often I can’t pinpoint any given moment. I know I’m in the right field when I literally get chills from a moment I have with clients and their dogs; whether that’s in a private session and we witness a positive behavior change together or a client and their dog are successful in the classroom setting.
Do you currently have any pets? Tell us about them!
I recently lost both of my heart/soul dogs but I’ll tell you about them!
Sauce, 17 yr old, Longhair Dachshund- spunky, sassy, wonderful girl who came into my life just when I needed her. Sauce was with me for many milestones in my life, graduating college, getting married, buying a house- she was and is still there for me.
Spud, 8 yr old, Longhair Dachshund. The absolute BEST boy I could have ever asked for. He taught me everything I know in regards to training and understanding our dogs. I lost him too soon and will always miss him. I’ve never had a relationship with a dog that I did with Spud. He changed my life.
I have both of them tattooed on my arm <3
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Livin’ on a Prayer by Bon Jovi
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
France
If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why? 🐾
Longhair Dachshund, not only are they my favorite, feisty and adventurous, but also can always snuggle up in a warm blankey. Big dog in a little dog package.
