Values
The core values of Loyal Pawrenting are centered around creating a nurturing and supportive environment that fosters emotional growth, resilience, and strong relationships. Here are the key core values:
Safety & Security
Ensuring dogs feel physically and emotionally protected to build trust and bonding.
Trust & Attachment
Strengthening secure attachments through consistent, caring interactions.
Empathy & Understanding
Recognizing and responding to dogs' emotions with compassion.
Consistency & Boundaries
Establishing clear boundaries and routines to provide stability and confidence.
Playfulness & Connection
Using play for learning, enrichment, and building joyful interactions.
Acceptance & Curiosity
Embracing each dog's individuality and seeking to understand their behaviors without judgment.
Positive Reinforcement
Focusing on non-punitive, gentle strategies that teach and guide, rather than punish.
Emotional Resilience
Helping dogs manage stress, regulate emotions, and develop confidence.
Principles
I follow the HEARTS Principles, a framework originally developed by experts worldwide to support at-risk and adoptive families of children. Interestingly, these principles align perfectly with modern research on animal welfare and are embraced by progressive dog professionals. HEARTS takes into account a dog’s physiological, emotional, and medical needs when creating individualized care plans, much like we would for a child. It also mirrors key elements from established frameworks, like those of Abraham Maslow and Jaak Panksepp, ensuring a holistic, compassionate approach to each dog’s well-being.
| Acronym | |
|---|---|
| H | Heal the body |
| E | Enrich and optimize the brain |
| A | Appropriate environments with felt safety |
| R | Respectful and secure relationships |
| T | Teach sensitivity and positively |
| S | Support the individual |
Is managing your dog`s behavior exhausting? What if the key to better behavior isn`t more training... but more empathy? 💡🐾
My latest blog explores "Therapeutic Parenting" - a game-changing approach that shifts us from trying to "fix" our dogs to truly understanding them. Discover how the PACE model can transform reactive moments into opportunities for connection.
Read the full blog and learn how to become a Therapeutic Pawrent using the link in bio.
➡️ Ready to transform your relationship? Book a FREE virtual vibe check to explore compassionate dog care that works for YOU and your pup! Link in bio.
#TherapeuticPawrent #LoyalPawrenting #DogBehavior #PositiveReinforcement #DogTraining #ConscioousDogParenting #DogLovers #DogEmotions #CompassionateDogCare #HappyDogs
👇 Spanish Translation can be found in the comments ❤️
Is managing your dog`s behavior exhausting? What if the key to better behavior isn`t more training... but more empathy? 💡🐾
My latest blog explores "Therapeutic Parenting" - a game-changing approach that shifts us from trying to "fix" our dogs to truly understanding them. Discover how the PACE model can transform reactive moments into opportunities for connection.
Read the full blog and learn how to become a Therapeutic Pawrent using the link in bio.
➡️ Ready to transform your relationship? Book a FREE virtual vibe check to explore compassionate dog care that works for YOU and your pup! Link in bio.
#TherapeuticPawrent #LoyalPawrenting #DogBehavior #PositiveReinforcement #DogTraining #ConscioousDogParenting #DogLovers #DogEmotions #CompassionateDogCare #HappyDogs
👇 Spanish Translation can be found in the comments ❤️
🦴 #TrainingTreat of the Week 💗
Your dog doesn’t need a drill sergeant—they need a safe place to land, especially when the world feels overwhelming.
Be their emotional support human. 🐾
Because even the bravest dogs have big feelings, and they look to you for safety, comfort, and guidance.
When things get tough, remember the order of operations:
☑️ Safety First – Create a secure environment.
☑️ Understanding Second – Get curious about what they’re feeling and why.
☑️ Training Third – Teach coping skills with compassion, not correction.
Learning happens when emotions settle. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is sit beside them, breathe, and remind them they’re not alone. 💞
And yes, snacks help too. 🍖💕
👇 Spanish Translation can be found in the comments ❤️
#LoyalPawrenting #ConnectionBeforeCorrection #DogTrainingTips #EmotionallyAvailableHuman #HighFiveForTrust
🦴 #TrainingTreat of the Week 💗
Your dog doesn’t need a drill sergeant—they need a safe place to land, especially when the world feels overwhelming.
Be their emotional support human. 🐾
Because even the bravest dogs have big feelings, and they look to you for safety, comfort, and guidance.
When things get tough, remember the order of operations:
☑️ Safety First – Create a secure environment.
☑️ Understanding Second – Get curious about what they’re feeling and why.
☑️ Training Third – Teach coping skills with compassion, not correction.
Learning happens when emotions settle. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is sit beside them, breathe, and remind them they’re not alone. 💞
And yes, snacks help too. 🍖💕
👇 Spanish Translation can be found in the comments ❤️
#LoyalPawrenting #ConnectionBeforeCorrection #DogTrainingTips #EmotionallyAvailableHuman #HighFiveForTrust
For my first #FlashbarkFriday, I want to share this photo taken in June 2016—I was 22 years old! At the time, I was a student at Savannah College of Art and Design, and Chule (our family dog) came to visit for a tour of the Atlanta campus. I had no idea where life would take me, but three things were certain:
🐾 I was passionate about advancing social justice through design
🐾 “Sleep Comes After Death” (if you know, you know 😉)
🐾 And I believed the skills I was learning could help design a better world
It’s funny how things come full circle.
While I may not be leading a global campaign or heading up a major design firm, I am still a designer—just in a different way. Today, I create e-learning courses and educational tools for pet guardians, helping them better understand their dogs and build deeper, more compassionate relationships.
And no, I might not be changing the world…
But I am changing the world of each dog I get to work with.
And to me, that’s everything. 💛
Have you ever made a big pivot in life? Tell me your “full circle” moment.
#TrainWithEmpathy #DogsDeserveBetter #SCADAlumni #DogTraining #FullCircle #DogLover #ChuleTheLegend
For my first #FlashbarkFriday, I want to share this photo taken in June 2016—I was 22 years old! At the time, I was a student at Savannah College of Art and Design, and Chule (our family dog) came to visit for a tour of the Atlanta campus. I had no idea where life would take me, but three things were certain:
🐾 I was passionate about advancing social justice through design
🐾 “Sleep Comes After Death” (if you know, you know 😉)
🐾 And I believed the skills I was learning could help design a better world
It’s funny how things come full circle.
While I may not be leading a global campaign or heading up a major design firm, I am still a designer—just in a different way. Today, I create e-learning courses and educational tools for pet guardians, helping them better understand their dogs and build deeper, more compassionate relationships.
And no, I might not be changing the world…
But I am changing the world of each dog I get to work with.
And to me, that’s everything. 💛
Have you ever made a big pivot in life? Tell me your “full circle” moment.
#TrainWithEmpathy #DogsDeserveBetter #SCADAlumni #DogTraining #FullCircle #DogLover #ChuleTheLegend
📣 NEW BLOG POST
Does your dog “talk back”? Bite the leash or the edge of your pants? Bark when seeing strangers? Refuse to move on a walk?
They’re not being stubborn—they’re communicating.
In my latest blog post, I share how reframing “pushback” can transform frustration into connection. Because when we stop correcting and start listening, we open the door to trust, safety, and real teamwork. 🐾💛
✨ Link in bio 🥰
#dogtraining #dogtrainer #doglife #dogstagram #training #dogtrainingtips #happydog #dogtrainingadvice #dogtrainersofinstagram #LoyalPawrenting #FamilyDogMediation
📣 NEW BLOG POST
Does your dog “talk back”? Bite the leash or the edge of your pants? Bark when seeing strangers? Refuse to move on a walk?
They’re not being stubborn—they’re communicating.
In my latest blog post, I share how reframing “pushback” can transform frustration into connection. Because when we stop correcting and start listening, we open the door to trust, safety, and real teamwork. 🐾💛
✨ Link in bio 🥰
#dogtraining #dogtrainer #doglife #dogstagram #training #dogtrainingtips #happydog #dogtrainingadvice #dogtrainersofinstagram #LoyalPawrenting #FamilyDogMediation
Thank You for Stopping By! A huge thank you to everyone who visited our booth today at @fultonanimalservices! It was so wonderful meeting you all and chatting about our shared love for dogs. We hope you had as much fun as we did!
Thank You for Stopping By! A huge thank you to everyone who visited our booth today at @fultonanimalservices! It was so wonderful meeting you all and chatting about our shared love for dogs. We hope you had as much fun as we did!
Some say that all sentient beings have the ability to communicate and show love. Yet, humans often miss these signals—sometimes out of fear, other times because they struggle to truly connect.
But if you pay attention, you’ll see that dogs never lie. Even when they’re scheming for a second dinner, their intentions are always honest. When your dog is trying to tell you something, believe them. Their body language, their eyes, their energy—all are part of a language waiting to be understood.
So, listen. Be their friend, their guardian, their cheerleader, and their biggest supporter. Because to them, you are their world. ❤️🐾
How does your dog communicate with you? Feel free to share in the comments 🥰
#listentoyourdog #doglife #caninecompanion #loyalpawrenting
Some say that all sentient beings have the ability to communicate and show love. Yet, humans often miss these signals—sometimes out of fear, other times because they struggle to truly connect.
But if you pay attention, you’ll see that dogs never lie. Even when they’re scheming for a second dinner, their intentions are always honest. When your dog is trying to tell you something, believe them. Their body language, their eyes, their energy—all are part of a language waiting to be understood.
So, listen. Be their friend, their guardian, their cheerleader, and their biggest supporter. Because to them, you are their world. ❤️🐾
How does your dog communicate with you? Feel free to share in the comments 🥰
#listentoyourdog #doglife #caninecompanion #loyalpawrenting
💖🐾 Happy Furry Valentine’s Day! 🐾💖
Love comes in all shapes, sizes, and wagging tails! 🐶🐾 Today, I`m celebrating the unconditional love our four-legged companions bring into our lives. Whether it’s their goofy grins, warm cuddles, or endless loyalty, our furry Valentines make every day special!
To kick things off, here’s a special photo—sculptures of Coco and Riley, which my husband and I used as our wedding cake toppers! 🎂🐾 Because what’s more romantic than including your dogs in your big day? 💕
Now it’s your turn! Drop a photo of your favorite furry Valentine in the comments and tell us why they have your heart. Extra browny points if you have a foster Valentine! Let’s fill this thread with tail wags, happy memories, and adorable pups! 📸🐶
Wishing you and your pets a Valentine’s Day filled with love, treats, and extra belly rubs! Happy Loyal Pawrenting! ❤️🐾
#FurryValentine #LoyalPawrenting #DogLove #ValentinesDayPups
💖🐾 Happy Furry Valentine’s Day! 🐾💖
Love comes in all shapes, sizes, and wagging tails! 🐶🐾 Today, I`m celebrating the unconditional love our four-legged companions bring into our lives. Whether it’s their goofy grins, warm cuddles, or endless loyalty, our furry Valentines make every day special!
To kick things off, here’s a special photo—sculptures of Coco and Riley, which my husband and I used as our wedding cake toppers! 🎂🐾 Because what’s more romantic than including your dogs in your big day? 💕
Now it’s your turn! Drop a photo of your favorite furry Valentine in the comments and tell us why they have your heart. Extra browny points if you have a foster Valentine! Let’s fill this thread with tail wags, happy memories, and adorable pups! 📸🐶
Wishing you and your pets a Valentine’s Day filled with love, treats, and extra belly rubs! Happy Loyal Pawrenting! ❤️🐾
#FurryValentine #LoyalPawrenting #DogLove #ValentinesDayPups
🌟 Exciting News! I’m Officially a Certified Dog Trainer! 🌟
I’ve officially graduated from the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior, and I want to take a moment to reflect on the people who made this possible. 💖
❤️ My husband: You were my videographer, rock, and biggest cheerleader through the chaos. Balancing work, consulting, volunteering, and training wasn’t easy, but your patience, understanding, and willingness to help at home made this dream a reality. I’m forever grateful for your love and support.
❤️ My parents: You’ve shaped me into the person I am with the values you instilled in me. Your lessons about standing up for what’s right and your guidance through my college years have been invaluable. The graphic and instructional design skills you helped me develop are now part of the educational resources I create for dog parents.
❤️ My grandma: Thank you for being my recording assistant, moral support, and biggest fan in all things dog-related. Your excitement and encouragement meant the world to me.
❤️Misty, Maggie, Allie, Donna, Monica, Rosalie and LifeLine Animal Shelter—especially Michelle Harmon: You’ve been my village, lending time, space, and emotional support. From helping with assessments to cheering me on, you allowed me to grow and submit my best work. I hope to pay forward the kindness you’ve shown me.
❤️ The VSA faculty and staff: You reignited my passion when I felt burned out and showed me the incredible impact ethical dog training can have. Thank you for guiding me with wisdom and warmth.
❤️ My Faculty Advisor, Mandy Eakins (Manners Matter Dog Training): Your positive reinforcement-based teaching was exactly what I needed. Your thoughtful advice and encouragement helped me overcome challenges and grow with confidence. I can’t thank you enough.
❤️ Caitlin McCook (Magpie Pet Specialists): You’re my role model, and your teachings have pushed me to follow in your footsteps. Thank you for helping with Coco and inspiring me to share ethical dog training practices with other families.
Thank you for being part of this amazing journey with me. 💕🐾 Let’s make 2025 even better together!
🌟 Exciting News! I’m Officially a Certified Dog Trainer! 🌟
I’ve officially graduated from the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior, and I want to take a moment to reflect on the people who made this possible. 💖
❤️ My husband: You were my videographer, rock, and biggest cheerleader through the chaos. Balancing work, consulting, volunteering, and training wasn’t easy, but your patience, understanding, and willingness to help at home made this dream a reality. I’m forever grateful for your love and support.
❤️ My parents: You’ve shaped me into the person I am with the values you instilled in me. Your lessons about standing up for what’s right and your guidance through my college years have been invaluable. The graphic and instructional design skills you helped me develop are now part of the educational resources I create for dog parents.
❤️ My grandma: Thank you for being my recording assistant, moral support, and biggest fan in all things dog-related. Your excitement and encouragement meant the world to me.
❤️Misty, Maggie, Allie, Donna, Monica, Rosalie and LifeLine Animal Shelter—especially Michelle Harmon: You’ve been my village, lending time, space, and emotional support. From helping with assessments to cheering me on, you allowed me to grow and submit my best work. I hope to pay forward the kindness you’ve shown me.
❤️ The VSA faculty and staff: You reignited my passion when I felt burned out and showed me the incredible impact ethical dog training can have. Thank you for guiding me with wisdom and warmth.
❤️ My Faculty Advisor, Mandy Eakins (Manners Matter Dog Training): Your positive reinforcement-based teaching was exactly what I needed. Your thoughtful advice and encouragement helped me overcome challenges and grow with confidence. I can’t thank you enough.
❤️ Caitlin McCook (Magpie Pet Specialists): You’re my role model, and your teachings have pushed me to follow in your footsteps. Thank you for helping with Coco and inspiring me to share ethical dog training practices with other families.
Thank you for being part of this amazing journey with me. 💕🐾 Let’s make 2025 even better together!
An Ethological Perspective
In my approach to dog training, I draw on Kim Brophey’s “LEGS” framework, which stands for Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self. This approach goes beyond traditional methods by considering the whole picture of your dog's behavior, including their natural instincts, genetic traits, and the environment they live in.
By integrating the LEGS framework with traditional behavior analysis, I aim to create personalized training plans that not only address specific behavior issues but also strengthen the bond between you and your dog. This holistic approach is essential for fostering a deeper connection and ensuring a happy, well-adjusted life for your furry friend.