About Shelly

Supporting you and your dog with welfare-based, relationship-centered training.

My Approach

I use humane methods grounded in modern learning theory and animal welfare.

This means:

  • We adjust the environment so your dog can succeed

  • We teach behaviors your dog can do, rather than suppressing the ones we do not want

  • We reinforce desired behavior generously

  • We look at the whole picture—health, history, environment, movement, emotion—not just the behavior itself

Both your and your dog’s emotional wellbeing are central to the work we do together.

My Background

I am a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA-CTP), a distinction that reflects rigorous coursework, hands-on skills assessments, and a commitment to evidence-based, welfare-forward training.

I continue to pursue ongoing education to deepen my skills and expand the support I can offer to dogs and their families.

I am also a graduate of:

  • Dr. Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning With Animals (LLA)

  • Michael Shikashio’s Aggression in Dogs Master Course

  • Kim Brophey’s LEGS® Family Dog Mediation program

  • KPA Puppy Start Right Instructor program

I love learning. Continuing education is not a requirement I meet; it is genuinely one of my favorite parts of this work.

In addition to over ten years of professional training experience, I am also a social worker and one of the creators of EPIC Pals, a dog-assisted social and emotional learning program for youth that integrates dog training, behavior, and SEL concepts.

A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and grey eyes, smiling outdoors during fall, wearing a green jacket and earrings.

My Work in the Animal Training Community

I also host the Animal Training Academy’s (ATA) Making Ripples podcast, a show highlighting the thoughtful, skilled animal professionals who make up the ATA community and the positive impact they are creating around the world. If you enjoy learning from trainers across species and disciplines, you can find episodes on any major podcast platform.

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Training With Me

Whether we are working together in private coaching, day training, group classes, or walk & train sessions, my goal is always the same:

to support both you and your dog with clarity, compassion, and practical guidance that fits your real life.

If you are unsure which service is the best fit, I am happy to help you think it through.