I use the humane hierarchy as my guiding principles for training. That means I start by looking at lifestyle factors, move on to prevention, and then work on teaching and reinforcing alternative behaviours.

Aversive tools are not in my kit. That means no prongs, chokes, or pinch collars, e-collars, corporal punishment or corrections. If you currently use these tools, don't despair! I'm happy to help you in your journey, no matter where you are at, if you are open to working towards no longer needing those tools. Judgement free, guaranteed.

Yep. But not for everything, and not forever. Using food helps us get results fast, and I'll make sure you don't create the "show me the money" dog that will only do stuff if you have a treat in your hand.

Worried that your dog isn't food motivated? That's ok! We can find out what works for your dog.

Trainer's favourite treats:

• Real food (boiled chicken, cooked steak, bacon, pork loin, cheese, apple, red pepper, carrot... whatever your dog likes... I have used french fries, cheetohs, and broccoli with my own dogs!)

• Granville Island Pet Treatery

• Open Farm

• The Honest Kitchen

Fear Free provides online education to veterinary professionals, pet professionals, animal welfare communities, and pet owners. Our mission is to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets by inspiring and educating the people who care for them.

My job as a certified fear free trainer is to assist in reducing fear, anxiety and stress in our pets by conditioning a calmer, more positive care experience for the pet; assisting in procedure and follow-up preparation; assisting in calmer transportation; teaching clients how to read, assess, and respond to signs of fear, anxiety, and stress; and teaching cooperative care behaviours to assist in all aspects of care and husbandry.

Read more and access amazing resources for both pros and guardians here: freefreepets.com

While dogs are my forte, I do also work with cats, although I am not nearly as experienced with them. Luckily, the methods of training I use work for all species, domestic and wild. The Toronto Zoo does incredible work with their animal guests. Take a look at this hyena showing off its tricks!

Fun fact: I trained an Angel Fish to swim through a hoop and to follow my finger during my Karen Pryor Academy Professional Dog Trainer Course.

Work life balance my friends. For me to provide the best, I've gotta be at my best. It also means all of our communication is in one place, instead of spread out across multiple platforms.

Not at this time.