What inspired your interest in animal behavior?

I was inspired to seek more knowledge about behavior after reading "How to Behave So Your Dog Behaves" by the late Dr. Sophia Yin, DVM, MS. This book addresses decoding dog behavior as the first critical skill before any dog training. The book also offers a great introduction to learning theory other training books didn't have at the time.

I believe Dr. Yin's work set the table for many concepts we are familiar with today; specifically, her low stress handling teachings were a major part of the foundation of the Fear Free movement animals benefit from today.

My interest in animal behavior solidified after taking a class called "Living and Learning with Animals" by Dr. Susan Friedman. The student body comprised over 40 different countries, and many concepts transcended species, to include humans. It is an amazing curriculum and collection of knowledge and experiences. 

What do you find most rewarding about your work with animals?

I am constantly amazed and delighted by cross-species communication. I also get a thrill when I can help facilitate people's "aha" moments—those times when they finally 'see' animal behaviors they didn't understand before.

A relationship between different species thrives when both can communicate on some level. A large part of communication is listening and giving the animal space and time to make choices. When an animal has the choice to interact or be "seen," I believe a stronger connection forms between the species.

I also enjoy being surrounded by people who share a passion for animals. The people I meet, with their unique experiences and knowledge, help feed my curiosity and add to my proverbial toolbelt of ideas for working with animals.

Can you tell us about the journey that led you to your current role?

In my journey of working with dogs, I was able to learn alongside a wide variety of handlers and trainers, many with very different techniques.

As a child, I was training and learning from our family pets, which included dogs, cats, raccoons, squirrels, turtles and snakes. In college, I gained hands-on experience with husbandry through work with dairy cows, a breeding horse barn and several years of volunteering at a wildlife center and an animal shelter.

I spent over a decade with a local Search & Rescue (SAR) Group, searching for missing people. I was fortunate to learn from and work with some of the top SAR dog handlers in the world, many of whom are close friends. While our family was active duty military, we moved every 2-3 years until settling in Fairfax for our final duty station in 2017.

By then, I was already a companion dog trainer and was still active in SAR until an injury to my K9 partner led to his early medical retirement. Instead of starting with a new puppy, I retired from SAR and repurposed my partner to assist with professional dog training, as he is very tolerant of puppies.

I found myself missing the volunteer role and had befriended the FCAS shelter's previous Behavior Specialist. I realized I was spending more time at the shelter than working some weeks! Now, as a Fairfax County Animal Shelter employee, I am excited to be part of the community, contributing to the shelter’s mission and execution.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time, I like to be outdoors and hike with my family. We also enjoy exploring restaurants and traveling. And, of course, greeting all the animals (who wish to be greeted)!

As the school year begins, many of us are busy preparing our kids with new clothes, fresh boxes of crayons and snacks that may—or may not—pass the test. But amid all the hustle and bustle, let’s not forget how our pets might feel after a summer filled with human companionship! While some pets enjoy the newfound peace and quiet once the last pair of Crocs heads out the door, others might feel stressed and anxious. Here are some tips to help your pet adjust to being alone again:

1. Ensure Regular Exercise: Just like us, a stressed out pet benefits from exercise. While you do not have to necessarily squeeze in a long walk with your dog or a play session with your cat before leaving, making sure they have regular opportunities for physical activity will help keep them calm and content when they are on their own.

2. Provide Engaging Activities: Leave out some fun distractions for your pet while you are gone. Rotate their toys and bring out something new when you leave. This not only gives them something to look forward to but also creates a positive association with your absence. Plus, it is a great way to keep things fresh without always buying new toys!

3. Stick to a Potty Routine for Dogs: Adjusting back to school schedules can be hectic, and sometimes our pets’ routines get thrown off in the process. Remember that feeding your dog right before you leave could mean they will need to go outside soon after. Be mindful of their needs, and if there is a slip-up, do not be too hard on them. It is all part of the transition back to a routine.

4. Create a Cozy Space for Your Cat: Cats thrive in environments where they feel safe and secure. Set up a cozy space with their favorite blanket, a new perch by the window or a comfortable hideaway spot. Adding things like interactive toys can keep them entertained and mentally stimulated while you are away. A comfortable, enriched environment can help lower anxiety and make alone time more enjoyable for your feline friend.

By making a few small adjustments, you can help make sure your pet stays happy and healthy as the school year begins!