I first fell in love with dogs when I was 10 years old, and we got our first family pet, a Collie named Shep. He was my closest friend when I was a young girl. I would take him on long walks, telling him my worries and fears. He was my confidant, and I knew he loved me unconditionally.
I have worked around dogs since I was 21 years old, starting at the Oakland and San Francisco SPCAs. I was immediately drawn to dog rescue. After working in a vet hospital, I soon started my own dog walking business, Happy Hound Pet Care. I have been walking dogs in the East Bay for 17 years and continue to love the daily pack walks.
In 2001, I began a life transforming relationship with my dog Benjamin. (You can read his whole story in “The Benjamin Story.”) Grappling with Benjamin's intense aggression, I sought out and found my teacher, Alon Geva, a preeminent Bay Area dog trainer. I worked with Alon for many months, learning how to establish Centered Leadership with Benjamin.
It was an extraordinary time for me. Alon's natural, intuitive communication with dogs inspired me to guide Benjamin to become a balanced and trusting dog. What was most amazing though was how, using dog training as a vehicle, Alon showed me how to open up my heart and soul to a deepening spiritual journey, on which I remain to this day.
Alon's teachings inspired me so much that I felt compelled to become his apprentice. For one year, I studied under Alon and Yigal Lenman, his protege. I feel honored to continue their legacy in the Bay area, teaching people how to guide their dogs through Calm Centered Leadership. Through this process, my clients develop not only balanced relationships with their dogs, but also gain a deeper understanding of themselves, ultimately allowing them to be available and present with all of Life.