Tara has been in the animal training field for 35+ years and has worked with many animal species on training and enrichment. She uses the same positive training principles with dogs that she learned while training marine mammals and zoo animals. Breaking behaviors down into small pieces and through well-timed reinforcement keeps it interesting and worthwhile for the animal.

Tara began dog training in 2016 and became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT – KA) in 2019 and she is also a Fear Free Certified Professional. Tara regularly attends continuing education conferences and workshops to keep up to date on the latest techniques. She also continues to expand her knowledge base & experience with her personal dogs as students in agility, rally, obedience, scent work & dock diving.

When training with clients, Tara finds joy in helping people develop their relationship with their animals through positive reinforcement techniques and enrichment activities.  She says it is a pleasure to see them apply what they have learned to new situations.