I am a native New Yorker but have been calling Cleveland my home since 1978. After having a local trainer work with a dog of mine, I was so impressed that someone could call canine training their full time job that I looked into several canine training schools across the country. I found National K-9 School of Dog Trainers to have a complete program and began my new career there. I was certified through the school in basic and advanced obedience, problem solving, and police k-9.

Since then I have attended many seminars, mostly focusing on the canine-human bond and behavior training from Cornell University and the Ontario Vet College. Courses have included:

• How Dogs Learn

• Advanced Learning

• Solving Canine Behavior Problems

• Canine Aggression

• An Examination Of Animal Behavior Management

• Alternatives For Managing Canine Behavior / Improving The Dog-Family Relationship,

• Behavioral Development and Communicative Behavior.

Even though it's now a favorite term used I've been a "pet dog trainer" since the 80s. Clients range from raising new puppies, training older pups and adult dogs, to problem solving. Some want to compete and others just want a great house dog. Either way the foundation is laid with a good relationship between dog and owner. My favorite way to achieve this is for owners to pick ideas from my "Stay Pawsitive" program, included in every course.

Looking back I am continuing with my familys tradition of owning a herding dog. I grew up with collies and when I started training I enjoyed having German Shepherd dogs. Now I keep busy in an urban environment with my 2 year old cowgirl named Ocoee. Australian Cattle Dogs are not typical house pets so she keeps me busy every day. I try to challenge her both mentally and physically because a tired dog is a happy dog.

When I don't have a dog leash in my hand I usually can be found with a camera or kayak paddle. My interest in photography grew each year first by photographing dogs, then landscapes and especially now I enjoy portrait work. First place winners in the yearly costume competition at Howloween Camp get treated to a B&W portrait of their dog.

I started sea kayaking in the 90s and eventually moved to whitewater kayaking. The Greater Cleveland Chapter of the American Red Cross helped teach me to boat safely and now I am a certified instructor and donate time helping others learn a wonderful sport. Visit the ARC boating web site at Greater Cleveland Chapter of the American Red Cross.

If you are a Lakewood resident you know all about the effort for establishing an off lead park. it's underway and tentative opening is scheduled for Summer 2003. Visit www.clevelanddogparks.com and learn more about the park and what it might mean for your dog.