Hi, I’m Rebecca. Here's why I do what I do...

​​Working at an animal shelter for five years was incredibly impactful. It provided me with the opportunity to observe and interact with hundreds of dogs. Among them, I encountered incredibly sweet dogs that, sensing danger, would express their need for space through biting, growling, shutting down, or fleeing from human care.

In many instances, I found myself needing to coax them beyond their comfort zones to relocate them to a quieter room, safely return them to their kennels, or assess their readiness for certain interactions. This aspect of my job was the least enjoyable; at times, I had to seek assistance because I couldn't bring myself to force a dog to do something against their will.

However, amidst these challenges, my favorite moments at the shelter were witnessing dogs emerge from their shells and learn to cope in an otherwise uncomfortable environment.

Reflecting on my experiences at the shelter—both the aspects I found difficult and those I cherished—guided me to specialize in Cooperative Care dog training, a field that truly resonates with me.

Cooperative care veers away from coercion and instead centers on nurturing a positive and cooperative partnership between dogs and their caregivers during veterinary and grooming procedures.

Through systematic training methods, it empowers dogs to actively participate in their own care, thereby diminishing stress and anxiety associated with routine procedures. By prioritizing trust-building and positive reinforcement, cooperative care ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience for both the dog and their owner.

Similar to those scared dogs in the shelter, every dog deserves autonomy and the opportunity to feel safe and confident.