My sweet pit bull Winnie has enhanced my life in ways I could never have imagined. She is an incredible ambassador for her much-maligned breed, and I can no longer remember a time without her. I named my business for her very zen qualities, which she balances with random goofiness. My father says that dogs are our portals to God, and whatever your beliefs may be, I think he’s on to something.
My hands-on experience with dogs began in Iran, where my father taught for Boeing. He established spay/neuter programs for abandoned dogs in Tehran and later in Jakarta, Indonesia. Throughout the years, our dog family has included Buddy, a German Shepherd, Bonnie & Clyde, our two Cocker Spaniels, Tara, a Brittany Spaniel, and Cassie, a shepherd mix from the streets of Indonesia. Add to these a large and cranky cockatoo named Paddy, and a multitude of extraordinary cats to round out the bunch.
A few years ago, I was at a crossroads with my consulting career, and decided to devote my life to the things I love most: dogs and acting. I’ve never looked back.
For over 20 years, I’ve volunteered with private rescue groups, the Amanda Foundation in Los Angeles, the Seattle Animal Shelter and the Humane Society for Seattle/King County. I earned my Certificate in Canine Studies (CCS) from the Seattle School of Canine Studies - the only training certification program recognized by the state of Washington. I’ve also fostered dogs and volunteered at the Service Dog Academy and Seattle Humane as a volunteer training assistant with over 400 hours of apprentice training. Classes include puppy manners, adult dog manners, shy dog and reactive rover training. I’m a graduate of the Northwest School of Animal Massage, a certified canine massage therapist, and am certified in pet CPR through the American Red Cross. I regularly study the advances in positive training (see my “Links” page). My own training never ends, as dogs teach me something new each day.
We humans like to be familiar with our neighbors and surroundings, and so it is with our dogs. Routine excursions through their neighborhoods provide dogs with a sense of security and confidence. I honor the profound bond that exists between dogs and their humans, and my time spent with your best friend will reflect that respect and consideration. I’ve seen the quality of life improve dramatically for families who introduce mental stimulation, exercise and fun into their dogs’ routines using positive training methods based on behavioral science.
We owe our pets these simple but vital basics. Our dogs offer us unlimited joy and unconditional love. It’s the least we can do.
Please support animal rescue, spay/neuter programs and positive training.
