Hi, I'm Kim!

As a midwestern animal lover, I've been working with household pets since I was 11 years old. My love for animals, nature, and learning theory led to my Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Behavior from Carroll University (2020). Recently I went back to school and earned an Associate of Arts degree in American Sign Language Interpreting from Delgado Community College (2024).

In December 2024 I earned the Accredited Dog Trainer credential through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and adhere to the Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) guidelines.

• You can read the IAABC's statement on LIMA here:
  https://iaabc.org/en/lima?r=cr 

Starting in 2016 I applied my skills with numerous species such as parrots, dogs, cats, reptiles, and even black bears! From volunteer work and internships to small business employment, my experiences all led up to my last year of university, where I took part in a year - long course working with shelter dogs. I had the incredible opportunity to foster a shy, reactive, three year old Jack Russell/Hound mix named Ora for my final semester. Through our three months together, I honed in on my skills of operant conditioning, positive reinforcement training, and  trust - based relationship techniques before going to her forever home.

After graduation, I worked in Vermont as an environmental educator training birds of prey using the same techniques as dog training! On the side I helped guide puppy owners' and rescue heroes' relationships with their furry family members before moving cross-country once again to New Orleans in 2021. I worked on the Education team and the Animal Care team, building connections with guests while working my training skills with exotic animals.   

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On the dog training side, I worked closely with Janette Rael (CTC) owner of R+ Dog from April 2022 through August 2024. Her mentorship further built my skills in dog to dog social skills, reactivity, and behavior modification. Now I collaborate with Dr. Laura Ansel (DVM) of Louisiana Veterinary Behavior Services on behavior modification, reactivity, and inter-dog aggression.

I know one of the hardest challenges as an animal guardian is asking for help and trusting the process. My biggest message is that training animals should not be a giant life change, but a welcomed activity. I will listen to your unique challenges and present numerous options to best fit who you and your pet are, because learning is something wonderful we share with animals of all kinds.

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I'm so excited to work with you and your animal companions!