About Me
 

I’m Kali, your Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant.

​I’ve always had a strong connection with animals and deep curiosity about their behavior. This led me to pursue an education in professional dog training and behavior in 2005, with internships under a variety of trainers and exposure to different methods and tools. Over time, I realized many of those approaches didn’t create the kind of relationship I wanted with the dogs I lived and worked with or how I wanted to show up as a human being. This led me to shift toward an evidence-based approach grounded in positive reinforcement and the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) framework. I focus on training that is clear, practical, and usable in real life, using engagement, play, and communication to help both dogs and the people who love them succeed.

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I specialize in reactivity, fear, aggression, and dog-dog social behavior, particularly in complex and high-risk cases. Many of the dogs I work with are struggling in everyday situations or haven’t improved with previous training. I have a strong background in canine body language and communication, and I’ve spent years helping dogs live successfully in their homes.  

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I love working with all breeds, temperaments, and backgrounds, including working and sport dogs, and dogs with medical needs or other considerations. I have extensive experience with herding and bully breeds; if you know, you know (and love them for it).

If you have a cat, bird, or other animal - we can train them too! Although my experience with other species is limited, I enjoy teaching all animals. 

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Shelter and rescue work has always been a big part of my heart and what I do. A lot of my skills, knowledge, and understanding have come from working with shelter dogs, and I am forever grateful that they are my teachers. I adopted my first shelter dog, a Staffordshire Terrier named Millie, in 2011. Since then, I’ve fostered and worked with thousands of shelter dogs, foster families, and adopters to improve adoptability and support successful transitions into homes.
I’ve also collaborated with shelters and rescues on community programs focused on breed specific education and free or low-cost training options, keeping dogs in their homes and providing realistic alternatives to surrender.

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In addition to working directly with clients, I’ve supported professionals across the industry; including training boarding and daycare staff to safely assess behavior and manage group play and helping veterinary and grooming teams implement low-stress handling practices that improve safety and reduce fear.

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I am fortunate to share my life with my Dutch Shepherd, Rip, who you will often see helping me with dogs who are working on training and social skills. Much of our free time is spent exploring nature, hanging out with family, and participating in dog sports.

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I hold multiple credentials, including Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), Fear Free Shelter Certification, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, and Canine CPR & First Aid.

I’m committed to continuing my education in modern, evidence-based practices.