Relevant Courses: Working with People, Animal Identification and Assessment, Health and Safety; First Aid for Animals, Animal Well-being and Basic Handling

The Well Pet Certificate Program, St. Lawrence College, 2004 to present
Owning a dog or a cat can be a wonderful experience that brings many rewards. There are also many responsibilities. Pets must be properly cared for and protected. The Well Pet Program provides the information needed to be a responsible pet owner and pet care provider. It consists of the following five study modules: Animal Behaviour, Animal Nutrition, Veterinary Parasitology, Nursing Techniques, and Animal Disease.

Certified Canine Specialists, PIJAC Canada, 2003
The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council established the Certified Canine Specialist Program in 1994 to help support the highest standards of excellence for animal care, and to advance the companion animal profession through continuing education. Topics covered in the program include nutrition, housing, sanitation, health maintenance, disease and illness recognition/prevention/treatment and routine care of dogs.

Assistant Dog Trainer, PuppyPeople, 2003 to present
Puppy People teaches all aspects of dog care and ownership focusing on practical obedience utilizing positive training techniques. Based on solid knowledge of animal behaviour and training theory, the programs are motivational, effective and fun. I have been involved with the Puppy Manners and Socialization class, as well as the Dog Manners and Obedience class.

The Puppy Manners and Socialization is class designed to give your pup the best start during this important developmental period. Issues addressed include breaking puppy habits like jumping, nipping and house soiling as well as ensuring that your dog is confident around other dogs and children. The class also covers many useful training tips that will help prevent behavioural problems in the future.

The Dog Manners and Obedience class gives you the skills you need to ensure your dog will listen and settle down. Using practical and positive training techniques, the class covers topics like recalls, essential basic commands, mouthing/nipping, over excitability, destructive behaviour, barking, picking up things, and pulling on lead.

Pet First Aid, June 2004
This course is designed to give pet care professionals the information and skill required to stabilize an injured animal until qualified veterinary care can be accessed. The course emphasizes preventing illness and injury, the importance of early veterinary care and the appropriate restraining of an injured animal. Topics covered include:

	preventing illness and injury
	restraint and transportation
	bleeding and wounds
	shock
	bone and joint injuries
	eye and ear injuries
	poisoning
	medical conditions
	injuries from heat and cold
	whelping and queening
	administrating medication
	airway obstruction
	artificial respiration
	cardiopulmonary resuscitation
	dealing with grief

Volunteer, Toronto Humane Society, 2003 to present
The Toronto Humane Society’s mission is to promote the humane care and protection of all animals and to prevent cruelty and suffering. The day-to-day operation of the THS involves the direct handling of lost, abandoned, unwanted and injured pets and wildlife. Since The THS does not rely on government aid, they must rely on the support of volunteers and generous people in order to care for the thousands of sick, injured, and unwanted animals each year. By volunteering my time at the shelter, I have been able to improve the animal’s well-being and help them adjust to the environment prior to being adopted. The dog walking program is especially beneficial since it provides the dogs with much needed exercise, as well as the love and attention they miss.

Petopia is Fully Bonded and Insured through Binks Insurance

Available exclusively for members of Pet Sitters International, this insurance provides you with an added assurance. As you know, accidents do happen - no matter how rare the occurrence. Our pet insurance covers handler negligence while pets are in our care, custody, or control. In addition, we have coverage in the event of accidental breakage, mysterious disappearance, and theft of your property. Rest assured that Petopia is fully bonded and insured, which essentially safeguards the security of your home and the safety of your animal companions.

Clubs and Associations

The Professional Dog Walker’s Association

The Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers

The Canadian Kennel Club

Pet Sitters International

A Dog is a terrible thing to waste, Pamela Reid

Chris Bach Third Way Workshop, PuppyPeople

CAPPDT 2004 Annual Conference