Cathy“I grew up with dogs but it wasn’t until I retired from a 31 year career in the banking industry, that my love and passion for dogs lead me on a journey to discover a whole new career as a successful Dog Trainer.
In 2006, I happened on a demonstration of dog training techniques that literally blew me away. I’d never seen such well trained dogs having so much fun with their handlers!!! That was a light bulb moment. I wanted to know how to do that and I was pretty sure others would love to have that kind of relationship with their dogs too!! I began to educate myself first with some intensive training in Las Vegas where students would work daily with many different dogs at a local Animal Shelter. ALL of these dogs had been surrendered because of behaviour issues their owners could no longer manage. It was incredibly rewarding to see that after a few minutes of appropriate handling and positive reinforcement, these dogs settled down and were ready to learn more. Potential owners would often request to adopt the dog they’d seen a student working with. Since then, I have become rather obsessed with learning more. I read and attend as many seminars as possible and associate myself with trainers who have become friends. Nothing like a network! There are so many wonderful dog trainers out there and some I would rather avoid. Even so, I can truthfully say that I have learned something from everyone. I have worked with many dogs and a variety of behaviour issues. I am confident that I can help you with the foundation skills you need to teach your dog the manners he needs to be a welcome companion and family member. And, if I think that you would benefit by a referral to another trainer, I have no problem doing that. I have a large community of trainers to draw from. My training philosophy in a nutshell is, if you’re not having fun, either is your dog. I want you both to enjoy the journey. I look forward to working with you and your best friend." Cathy Pote |