Meet Ellen
Thank you so much for checking out my website
and inquiring about my services.
I am an expert in dog behavior with 15 years of experience in helping dog families just like yours.
Whether we are working together in our training sessions, or I am working one-on-one with your dog, each encounter is rooted in science and delivered with skill, compassion and love.
We also have a whole lot of fun!
The Importance of Science in Dog Behavior
Learning the science behind dog behavior modification and training is the source of my education as a dog trainer.
My skill is developed at seminars, workshops and through a network of professional trainers from around the world who continue to educate and inspire me to do the best job that I can for your dog.
My compassion and love for dog training comes from the heart.
Dog Behavior and Training
Certifications
I am a Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor (CBATI-KSA ) and held certification with Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) from 2011 – 2022. My role with Behavior Adjustment Training began in 2013 assisting, developing and overseeing certification in BAT, worldwide. I also had the privilege of teaching BAT Certification Courses to the international professional training community.
Collaborating with other professionals is key to growth as a trainer. I was honored to be the 2017 and 2018 co-facilitator of the Southern California Dog Trainers Forum where trainers from all over Southern CA attend our monthly presentations, and informative discussion.
Dog Training and Behavior Experience
I began my career in dog training by volunteering at the Los Angeles County Animal Shelter in Agoura Hills. It was here that I experienced first hand the tremendous variety of breeds, dispositions, and behavior issues. I also realized how just a little bit of training could have a huge impact on the dog and their future families.
Inspired by the transformations at the shelter – and most importantly from my own dog Beatrix – I soon began devoting my time to working with dogs on a professional level. I left the music industry after 20+ years and haven’t looked back. I’ve had the sincere honor of working with families all around the country; too many to count but each with a special memory. Many have written about their experience so be sure to check out my 50+ Five Star Google Reviews scrolling down below, or testimonials here or on Facebook. As a full-time resident on the Central Coast, I am so excited to serve the community that I love so dearly.
Shelters/Humane Societies remain close to my heart and I enjoy consulting them when needed. A highlight was teaching a BAT course at the legendary Best Friends Animal Society in Utah. During 2021, I was a lead presenter with an organization offering free training webinars to thousands of trainers across the globe. During that time, I co-created the Reframing Reactivity Toolbox for professionals. It is a tremendous resource and if we work together, you too will benefit from the videos, ebooks and handouts specializing in reducing or resolving reactivity.
I enjoy the Central Coast with my dog, Skittles! Skittles came into my life 11 years ago as a foster dog who needed to learn how to walk. His care was funded by Healthcare For Homeless Animals and his miraculous story is featured in a short video for HHA.
Thank you for inquiring about my services.
There’s a quote about having “your heart in your business and
your business in your heart” and that describes me very much as a professional dog trainer.
I hope we get the chance to connect!
Dog Training and Behavior Certifications
- Certified Behavior Adjustment Trainer (CBATI- KSA) (2013 – )
- Co-Author Reframing Reactivity Toolbox with Empowered Dog (2022)
- BAT Program Coordinator for GrishaStewart.com (2013 – 2019)
- Resident Dog Trainer for Fetch! Pet Care, the nation’s largest franchise of pet sitting and dog walking services. (2017)
- Exec Director of The Official Behavior Adjustment Training School (2018 – 2021)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CDPT-KA) (2011 – 2022)
- Reduce Reactivity Group Class Instructor at spcaLA
- Co-Facilitator Southern CA Dog Trainer’s Alliance
- Volunteer, KA, Trainer Humane Society of Sedona
- Volunteer Los Angeles County Animal Shelter