Learn More About Sirius Positive Dog Training

Michele’s experiences training her own German Shepherds, especially one particularly challenging dog – Sirius, inspired her to study dog training and behavior modification.  In 2015 she retired from pediatric ophthalmology to pursue dog training full time, and has since studied science-based, fear free, cooperative training methods with leading experts in the dog training field.  She has extensive experience working with both basic good manners training and with dogs who have behavior problems.  

Michele’s philosophy of dog training is straightforward: dogs are our companions, not possessions; dogs are social animals; dogs who cooperate as willing and trusting partners, rather than obey out of fear and coercion, are not only more reliable on and off leash, but this way of training enhances the loving relationship that most of us want with our dogs.  

Michele is both a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) and an international Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers).  Both the IAABC and the CCPDT are independent organizations and their certifications are awarded based on examinations that assess a candidate’s knowledge, expertise and experience.  

In addition, Michele has been awarded certifications after completing rigorous coursework, examinations and skill assessment by the Victoria Stilwell Dog Training Academy (graduate with distinctions); is a Fear Free Certified Professional trainer after completing coursework for cooperative husbandry at both veterinary offices and at home; is a Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor-Knowledge and Skills Assessed after a comprehensive course based on Grisha Stewart’s training methodology; and is a Certified Canine Good Citizen evaluator.  Michele also has completed Michael Shikashio’s Master in Dogs Aggression and Dr. Susan Friedman’s Applied Behavior Analysis courses.  

Michele is currently enrolled in the Family Dog Mediator course taught by internationally respected Animal Ethologist Kim Brophey and in Suzanne Clothier’s CARAT observational skills courses.  These certifications, coursework and ongoing studies demonstrate Michele’s up-to-date expertise, knowledge and skills in dog training.  

Michele has a passion for animal rescue and has worked with multiple rescue groups, including Best Friends Animal Society, Happily Furever After, Animals-R-Family, and Animal Rescue Center, has foster/trained rescue dogs, and volunteered with regional events such as the Best Friends Super Adoption events and Strut Your Mutt. 

Michele began working with Pets for Vets in 2021.  This international organization matches veterans with emotional support dogs who are carefully selected from shelters and trained to be supportive companions.  (https://www.petsforvets.com)

Since becoming a full-time trainer in 2015, Michele has made it her mission to decrease the frustration and stress that arises between dogs and their people when they experience conflict, and to help owners gain the skills to begin to work with their animals confidently and effectively.  Michele works with dogs and their owners to achieve goals that are realistic for both dogs and owners.  

By considering both the human and dog’s perspectives, Michele gives clients the skills and strategies to develop a cooperative partnership.