I provide on-leash dog walking, dog training in Okotoks and Diamond Valley.

I specialize in individual walks for dogs within the same household to provide personalized attention to each dog. This allows me to tailor the walk to the specific needs of your animal(s). I can merge packs, but that depends on the dogs involved.

My training approach is rooted in structural boundaries, clear communication, and over 25 years of hands-on experience training, competing, and assisting professional trainers. I believe that professional growth never stops, which is why I actively seek out advanced continuing education from the industry's absolute best.

Most recently, I completed an intensive professional Shadow Week with Monique Anstee at The Naughty Dogge. Monique is a nationally renowned behavioral expert, author, and competitive trainer known for her elite work in drive-building, canine bravery, and managing highly reactive dogs.

Immersing myself in her advanced methodologies allowed me to sharpen my skills in reading subtle canine body language and handling complex behavioral challenges. I bring these top-tier, real-world strategies directly back to Okotoks to help your dog build focus, confidence, and exceptional leash manners.

• Certified Emergency Care: I hold a valid Pet First Aid certification through the Red Cross, ensuring I am fully prepared and trained to handle medical emergencies or unexpected situations calmly and effectively.
  
• Strict On-Leash Policy: In town, every dog remains securely on-leash for the entire duration of the walk. This completely eliminates flight risks and protects your dog from the unpredictable chaos of off-leash areas and public dog parks.
  
  
• Proper Professional Equipment: I utilize high-quality, reliable walking equipment to maintain total control and security, double-checking all attachments before we leave your doorstep.
  
  
• All Sizes & Temperaments: I have extensive experience successfully handling dogs of all sizes, strengths, and behavioral backgrounds—including reactive, nervous, or highly energetic pups.
• Proactive Environment Management: I constantly scan the surroundings and read canine body language. If I spot wildlife, stray animals, or loose dogs, I use it as a training opportunity while ensuring a stressful interaction does not occur.

Before our first official walk or training session, we will schedule a mandatory Meet-and-Greet consultation in the comfort of your home. This vital step takes about 30 to 45 minutes and ensures a seamless transition for your pet. Here is what we accomplish during this meeting:

• Personality Assessment: I get to know your dog's unique personality, history, and energy levels, ensuring they feel completely comfortable and safe with me.
• Behavioral Discussion: We will discuss any specific behavioral traits, triggers, or patterns—such as leash reactivity, anxiety, or high prey drive—so I can tailor my approach using my 25+ years of experience.
• Equipment & Routine Review: We will review your preferred walking equipment (harnesses, collars, leashes) and discuss your dog’s specific commands, routine, and any medical considerations.
• Logistics & Home Access: We will finalize the practical details, including home entry protocols (keys, lockboxes, or alarm codes), scheduling preferences, and paperwork.
• Q&A Session: This is your opportunity to ask any remaining questions about my walking structure, training classes, or policies so you feel 100% confident when leaving your dog in my care.

Treats are a great aid in training. Rewarding good behaviour with treats can help solidify in the dog's mind exactly what is expected of them. I will not give your dog(s) treats without your permission. I will check with you to make certain the treats I provide are suitable for your pet(s).

Yes, I am licenced with the Town of Okotoks and insured through Zensurance. Documents for both are available upon request to all clients.

Should your pet become injured or ill while in my care, I will take them to the nearest veterinary clinic for treatment. I hold a pet first aid certificate through the Red Cross and have basic knowledge for first aid in emergencies.

Once your dog is checked in at the vet, you will be contacted. I will not authorize charges on your behalf.

I've gone old-school with my record keeping. While your name, phone number, email and the name of your dog(s) are saved electronically, your address and any door codes or access information is stored offline.

I'm old enough to have experienced the tail-end of common aversive training techniques. Today, the dog training industry is mostly based on positive reinforcement. I have seen and sampled most training methods out there. I've found a combination of corrections paired with positive reinforcement (treats, praise) work best for most dogs. As long as brutal physical punishiment is not included in your dog's training, I am happy to support the methods and techniques you use. I can also offer advice on what has worked for me and my dogs.

Yes. While out with your dog(s), I will be training them to walk on a loose leash, not lunge, take treats nicely and other doggy manners. If you would like to learn how to do all this and more, I offer one-on-one training for dogs and their owners. Group classes coming Fall 2026.

With my clients' permission, I post photos and videos of my walks with dogs on Instagram.

For many dogs, too cold isn't an issue, but too hot certainly is. I work around this by starting earlier in the day during hot weather and try to walk around midday during cold snaps.