MINI-BIO:

My interest in dogs is lifelong but in 1998 a friend and dog trainer asked if I'd like to swap some computer parts for some lessons with my two dogs. It was a transforming experience that ultimately led to the process of learning how to train other people and their dogs.

Along the way I would try my hand at competition, a lot of fun but not what I wanted to do as a trainer. I've been an average dog owner and feel empathetic to the problems that average pet owners are faced with like pulling the leash, jumping on people not coming when called. Dog owners struggling with pressing issues like aggression, reactivity, chronic barking. I started educating myself about learning theory and behavior modification, volunteering at the local animal shelter, launching Great Dog in 2003.

That decision opened the doors to an international community of individuals and organizations focused on animal behavior and my trajectory was set. That community is local as well where I network with training and behavioral professionals. That in turn has translated into thoughtful dialogue, sometimes discourse, referrals to individuals with focused expertise, better awareness of resources including lectures, symposiums, webinars, books etc. All of it good news if you're a dog owner in Southeastern New England.

On a personal note, I am married to my wife Susan. We have one child, my son Keir. We have two dogs: Frank & Daisy. I also have a Bachelor's degree in illustration from the Massachusetts College of Art.