Hi, I'm Kelly
With over three decades of experience in training pet dogs, focusing on puppy development and animal shelter training programs, I’m now dedicated to specializing in professional trainer development. My passion lies in teaching others, particularly fellow dog trainers. I derive immense satisfaction from sharing my extensive knowledge and expertise with others in the field, which I believe is the most impactful way I can contribute to our beloved industry at this stage of my career.
I am committed to elevating the standards of the industry because dogs deserve the best. I invite you to join me on this mission!
My Story
I am the co-founder and program designer of Open Paw, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive education and training to shelter workers, volunteers, and animal residents. My mission is to ensure that shelter dogs and cats not only find loving homes but also remain in them through effective behavior problem solving and prevention.
Internationally renowned for my expertise, I have contributed to various publications and delivered lectures around the world on topics such as puppy training, shelter dog training, enrichment, and scent work.
As the COO and Training Director of Sirius Puppy & Dog Training, the San Francisco Bay Area’s largest family-run dog training school and the pioneering institution of puppy classes, I continue to innovate in the field. I also serve as the Content and Curriculum Director, as well as a contributor, for the Dunbar Academy—an online educational platform for pet professionals and owners alike.
Splitting my time between Berkeley, CA, and a small farm in the Pacific Northwest, I compete in French Ring sport with my working Belgian Shepherds, Tervuren, and Malinois. I also share my life with a rescue Rottweiler, whom I rehabilitated from aggression issues, along with a delightful mix of terriers and Frenchies.
My primary goal is to expand awareness about dog behavior and guide people toward living in harmony with dogs, while respecting their natural instincts and behaviors.