My journey into professional dog training began in 2016 when I enrolled in the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior with my 10-year-old labrador retriever, Libby. During the intensive six-month program, I studied the science and practical application of animal learning and behavior and gained hands-on experience. Although I always loved dogs, I never expected to discover a passion for dog training. Working with Libby showed me firsthand how effective positive-reinforcement training can be, even with a senior dog. Through consistent, reward-based training, Libby learned new skills and behaviors, proving that you really can teach an old dog new tricks. I went on to train my labrador retriever, Koda, to compete in rally obedience, agility, and dock diving. At just 11 months old, Koda earned a Puppy Championship title in rally obedience and later achieved multiple titles in rally obedience and dock diving. Koda also earned her American Kennel Club's (AKC) Canine Good Citizen certification.

I went on to train my labrador retriever, Koda, to compete in rally obedience, agility, and dock diving. At just 11 months old, Koda earned a Puppy Championship title in rally obedience and later achieved multiple titles in rally obedience and dock diving. Koda also earned her American Kennel Club's (AKC) Canine Good Citizen certification.

Today, I share my life and work with Oakley, a therapy dog who brings comfort and smiles to children, military members, and families throughout the eastern North Carolina community. Together we visit local schools, libraries, senior centers, and family events, and regularly volunteer at Camp Lejeune's Warrior Athlete Readiness & Resilience Center and School of Infantry.

Oakley and I have earned AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Advanced Canine Good Citizen (CGCA), and Urban Canine Good Citizen (CGCU) certifications. We are a certified therapy dog team with Love on a Leash.