Hey there, I’m so happy you’re here! Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I have a deep love and respect for all animals as well as immense gratitude to call the woods my workplace. I’m a dog mom to my fluffy 5 y/o son, Leo, and I know what it's like to seek positive and enriching opportunities for my fur baby while I’m busy during the day.
I have 3+ years of experience hiking pups in the wild and co-owning the locally renowned, somerville-based Adventure Pups Cooperative. I have worked with dogs of all breeds, behaviors and personalities and have a soft-spot for those pups who need extra care and attention due to fear, anxiety or reactivity. ​​My approach to working with all animals is to be patient, go at their pace, respect their boundaries and listen to what they’re trying to tell me - whether it be verbal or physical. I’ve picked up loads of insightful
tools after working with trainers and behaviorists, and I apply those insights to nurture and support my canine pals.
I exclusively use Positive Reinforcement (R+) and Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) techniques with all dogs in my care. R+ training strategies are used because they align with my brand of love and empathy, and because they are backed in science and positive long-term results. I always put the safety of my pups first and I am passionate about advocating for the needs of my
pups whenever necessary. Before I became a doggy professional I was a licensed STEM, science, ESL, and computer teacher for 10+ years. I worked with humans of all ages in a variety of schools, settings and countries. I was happily surprised to learn how many of the skills I developed as a teacher were transferable to my work with dogs: communication with families, positive reinforcement, classroom management, leadership, organizational skills, problem solving, creative thinking and so much more!
I have a bachelor's degree in Education, with a specialization in art and science, and a masters degree in teaching science for middle school. I worked as a lifeguard and swim teacher for several years in Boston and Brookline, and I have saved pups from getting stuck in the water! I am currently in the process of getting certified in First Aid for dogs and cats which will be completed by summer of 2025.
Waggle Trails is bonded and insured, and services parts of Woburn, Winchester and Medford.
Want to know more? I’d love to hear from you!
