Ana Grimh, CPDT-KA
Program Director
Describe
how you became interested in animal training & behavior. What inspires you
to continue helping people & their pets?
Back in 2006, I began volunteering at an animal shelter in Virginia, and then in 2008, I became an employee at the city animal shelter. Not only did I adopt multiple pets during that time, but I also discovered how much fun (yet challenging) animal training & behavior is. It really fueled my desire to jump right into learning about the field.
Clients keep me inspired - their dedication, commitment, & love for their pet(s). I love to see clients became great observers & trainers of their pet(s), and to witness both animal & human build a positive relationship & improve communication is truly amazing.
Provide
your educational background, how long you’ve been a trainer (include
certification(s) & membership(s), if applicable), & any career goals you
have.
In 2009, I completed my B.A. in Psychology & Sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Mid-2008, I reached out to Teacher's Pet to begin an apprenticeship program, & in less than a year, I started leading group classes. In early 2010, I passed an exam to become a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), & have since been Program Director of Teacher's Pet. Along the way, I have continued to attend seminars & webinars, read blogs by well-known & respected training & behavior professionals, read scientific research articles & books, & more. I also volunteered on the Canine Behavior Team at Dane County Humane Society (DCHS) for over a year. I've also worked at The Dog Haus, a local doggy daycare & boarding facility, & through the daycare, I received a certification from the American Red Cross on Pet First Aid.
My 2013 goals are to pass the exam for Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA; this Spring), earn more continuing education credits, become more active in the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers (CCPDT) by participating in committees & the Board, & become more active in the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). I am a current member of the APDT & Pet Professionals Guild, & am certified as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator.
Share
what training methods you utilize, your teaching style, your preferred class
environment, and your community involvement/volunteerism.
I believe in teaching & using positive reinforcement, which may include treats, toys, attention from humans, etc - anything an animal finds rewarding and positive! Throughout a group or private session, I maintain a relaxed, calm, flexible, & positive atmosphere to promote & facilitate open communication, questions, learning, & progress. I am passionate about teaching people & pets, and I strive to demonstrate that throughout the session(s).
I am active in the community, and encourage all Teacher's Pet staff to do the same. Currently, I am employed full-time as the Westside Adoption Supervisor at Dane County Humane Society (DCHS). At DCHS, Teacher's Pet hosts group classes for shelter dogs & volunteers, volunteers time at events & camps, & attends as the volunteer training & behavior consultant for Baby Ready Pets. I also am the co-developer of the Feline Behavior & Enrichment Internship at DCHS. Besides that, I serve on the Board of Directors for Underdog Pet Rescue, a local animal rescue. At Underdog, I provide behavior consultations for foster animals, as well as committee leadership.
Tell
us about your pet(s) &/or hobbies.
My husband and I are owned by two dogs, Cymry (Australian Shepherd Mix) and Jisa (Husky Mix), and a handful of cats. :-)
Besides enjoying training my own pets (dogs & cats!), I love to be outside hiking, running, biking, walking, yoga, etc. I enjoy music, and can play various instruments. I also like to wind down with a movie, surrounded by my husband and fur-babies!
Animal
training motto/idea/quote that best fits your training:
"You & your dog don't meet speaking the same language. With help, you both will become fluent, & thus, improve your relationship & how you communicate."
"Your training goals may not be the same as someone else. Do not judge yourself or your dog."
"Relax,
be patient, & breathe."
Contact Ana by email at anag@teacherspettraining.com
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