How I Became a Trainer

My education as a dog trainer has been built through years of extensive, hands-on experience with thousands of dogs.

Before becoming a professional dog trainer, I worked with my own dog Simone at Support Dogs to train her as a therapy dog.  That experience deepened my interest in positive-reinforcement training and helped inspire the career I have today.

I began my professional training career with a major national pet training company, where for over three years I trained an average of 50 dogs each month. That high-volume experience allowed me the opportunity to work with hundreds of dogs of different breeds, personalities and training needs. 

I then spent the two years training for Kim Gracner owner of Positive Paws Pet Training and one of St. Louis' most respected dog trainers and behavior specialist.  Kim became both my mentor and friend, and her guidance and expertise helped shape the trainer I am today.

I also joined the Greater St. Louis Training Club, where Gabe and I completed every class available and spent a year working privately with the club's lead trainer.  Gabe and I continue learning from respected positive-reinforcement trainers today because I believe the best trainers never stop learning.

In January 2019, I launched PetImpact! full time.  Since then, I have helped train more than 3,500 dogs.  I combined that extensive training experience with my professional background in communication and relationship development to help dogs and their parents build clearer communication, strong relationships and lasting, positive results.

Train with love

Those three words are the foundation of everything I teach. 

To me, Train with LOVE means:

• Building confidence instead of fear.
• Teaching instead of correcting.
• Clear communication and consistent guidance.
• Strengthening the bond you share.
• Creating a relationship you'll enjoy long after training ends.

Because when communication improves,

relationships grow stronger.