I have a deep love for dogs and a passion for building strong, positive relationships between dogs and their people. Through my business, Happy Tailblazers, I’m thrilled to help families achieve harmony and confidence with their furry friends using gentle, science-backed techniques.
As a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP), I am committed to force-free, positive reinforcement techniques to train dogs, believing in the importance of safety, trust, and respect. I do not use aversive tools like shock or prong collars, opting instead for methods that foster safe and enjoyable learning experience for each dog.
Since 2022, I have fostered dogs for a local rescue, gaining valuable hands-on experience with a variety of personalities and behavior challenges. This work has deepened my understanding of how to adapt training to fit each dog’s unique needs. Additionally, I am continuing to pursue further education through courses, conferences, and regularly attending webinars to further expand my knowledge.
Each day, I’m inspired by the progress and joy that training brings to both dogs and their people. I look forward to making every day better for you and your dog, one paw at a time!
KPA Canine Graduate
Onyx isn’t just any dog—she’s my learning partner, my inspiration, and the reason behind the name Happy Tailblazers. As my partner in the Karen Pryor Academy, Onyx earned the title of KPA Canine Graduate, and together, we’ve explored the world of positive reinforcement training. She’s endlessly enthusiastic, always eager to learn, and has taught me just as much as I’ve taught her.
The name Happy Tailblazers is a nod to both Onyx and a long-standing family tradition. Onyx has what we call “happy tail”—she wags so hard that sometimes the tip of her tail even starts to bleed. She’s the definition of joyful enthusiasm. And then there’s the Trailblazer—my go-to vehicle, a family favorite that’s been in our driveway for years. Put them together, and you get Happy Tailblazers—a name that embodies joyful movement, learning, and companionship.
My mother found Onyx as a tiny little puppy, and I loved her at first sight—she was meant to be mine. She’s as devoted to me as I am to her, and together, we make the perfect team. She’s my heart dog, my best teammate, and the spirit behind everything I do.
Rory is a 5-year-old mixed breed with a heart as big as his worries. When he first came into my life, he was overwhelmed by the world—fearful of new people and too anxious to enjoy the things most dogs take for granted. But beneath that uncertainty was a sweet, intelligent dog just waiting for a chance to shine.
With time, patience, and the help of an outgoing foster sister, Rory has made incredible progress. While busy environments still aren’t his thing, he’s grown into a playful and affectionate homebody who loves his people. Nose work has become his favorite activity, building his confidence and even helping him trust new people. Seeing him allow his instructor to pet him—something that once would have been unthinkable—was a moment of pure triumph.
Rory may need a little extra understanding, but for the right home, he’ll be the most loyal and loving companion. He’s proof that patience, kindness, and trust can transform a fearful dog into one who’s ready to take on the world—one sniff at a time.
Think Rory could be a good fit for you? He's available for adoption through Once Upon a Tail Rescue.