Why Ann?
Ann has been passionate about dogs since before she could walk. For her, it was not a moment or event that sparked this passion, it is just in her make up. She has managed to involve dogs in every part of her live in a wide variety of ways. This breadth and diversity in experience is what makes Ann unique.
Her understanding of dogs combined with the understanding of how dogs fit into the family, allow her to provide practical and realistic guidance and advice. Not only do the dogs love her, but the people do also! To see more about Ann’s specific background, take a peek to the right.
To talk to Ann about your dog or puppy challenges or needs, please reach out to her.
Guide Dogs for the Blind Puppy Raising Leader
For over ten years, Ann supported the families raising guide dog puppies over their 18-month commitment. She has worked with hundreds of families to support the arrival of their new puppy and all of the challenges that come along with them.
Training her own dogs
Ann has had dogs her entire life and trained and showed a number of dogs in obedience. Since then, she has gravitated to other type of training like Rally, Agility, and Nose Work. Although the bond generated from doing these types of dog sports is incredible, she feels for most families the benefits of everyday life skills and enrichment choices is what makes a great companion.
Building a Community
Group classes
For five years, Ann managed the Marin Humane Dog training classes and consultations. She of course taught lots of group classes herself! This work with a wide variety of dogs, dog guardians, and families fine tuned her instruction skills and continued to inspire her desire to help all people in their dog journeys.
Learning from puppies
Ann has had over 20 litters of puppies in her, from rescue litters to service dog litters, and the value of watching these pups during the critical first eight-weeks of their lives. Understanding how puppies and dogs around them communicate, interact, and live has given her invaluable information that aids in making a puppy’s transition from litter to new “human” home go smoothly.
★★★★★
Ann has been our go-to expert for all things puppy (and dog) related – especially in training!
Our 1-year old puppy is well behaved (most of the time) because of Ann! She not only helped us prep for the arrival of our puppy (including setting realistic expectations for us as new puppy owners + items and behaviors we needed to set our puppy up for success) , but also helped us with house training/potty training, walking on a leash without pulling, autosit, sleeping through the night the first several months, and so much more!
Erica Smigeilski
Ruby and Roxie’s Gaurdian