I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Animal Science from Cornell University and have gained extensive knowledge in both the veterinary field and the shelter system. During that time, I saw firsthand how complex dog behavior can be—and how often dogs are misunderstood rather than taught.

Working closely with animals in medical and shelter environments gave me a strong foundation in animal behavior, welfare, and learning theory, and shaped the thoughtful, science-based approach I use in training today.

In shelters, it’s impossible not to notice how often the same training approaches are repeated while expecting different results. Many dogs—especially those with behavioral challenges—are given plans that focus almost entirely on management rather than true learning.

While management has an important place, I saw too many dogs whose lives became smaller instead of better. Avoidance, restrictions, and constant supervision were often labeled as “behavior modification,” leaving dogs without the skills they need to navigate the world confidently and calmly.

That experience pushed me to seek out training methods that go beyond managing problems and instead focus on building skills, resilience, and understanding.

That search led me to Training Without Conflict®, a system that finally aligned science, clarity, and compassion. This approach focuses on teaching dogs before holding them accountable, building cooperation through play, and giving dogs clear information so they can make good choices—even in challenging or high-arousal situations.

Training Without Conflict respects dogs as thinking, feeling individuals and prioritizes emotional well-being alongside reliable obedience.

I experienced the power of this approach firsthand with my dog, Summer. She struggled with stranger danger, dog-to-dog aggression, and a general lack of trust in the world.

By shifting away from constant management and toward clear communication, thoughtful structure, and relationship-building, her confidence and behavior transformed. Once she developed off-leash skills and learned how to work through excitement rather than be shielded from it, our relationship and her obedience reached a level I didn’t think was possible.

Training tools are often misunderstood and unfairly demonized. In reality, tools themselves are not the problem—lack of education and misuse are.

When introduced thoughtfully and used responsibly, tools can provide dogs with clearer communication and consistency, not fear or intimidation. In Training Without Conflict®, tools are never shortcuts or punishments; they are simply one of many ways to help a dog understand expectations when verbal cues and rewards alone aren’t enough.

My work centers on building real relationships between people and their dogs, not suppressing behavior or avoiding life. I focus on play-based connection, clear boundaries, and compassionate communication to help dogs develop confidence, emotional resilience, and real-world reliability.

I grew up on Long Island and am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the local animal community. My goal is to help owners truly enjoy life with their dogs—while helping dogs live fulfilled, confident, and emotionally healthy lives, with skills that go far beyond management alone.