Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Penny Bolton

Dog trainer in Seattle

https://pennybolton.com

Service areas:

Seattle Metro

I am a art and science nerd- born and raised in the wilds of Seattle back when it was a wee bit less crowded. A degree in art, then years working with people in real estate (hint it's not about houses- it's about people) and finally on to animals. Became a "Master Birder" with Seattle Audubon and earned a certificate in Natural Sciences Illustration at the UW. Really got into the "why" of animal behavior. I earned my certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington (2016) then earned my Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Professional designation(2017). Since then, I've dived deep into all kinds of behavior studying Applied Behavior Analysis with Dr. Susan Friedman(2018 and 2021) and participating in Convergence of Human and Animal Training and Technology, Control Unleashed conferences as well as multiple KPA Clicker Expos. I completed FearFree Shelters. Attended Aggression in Dogs Conferences. I volunteer at the Seattle Animal Shelter, starting as a dog walker then as an instructor for dog walkers and as a member of the Dog Behavior Team. The many dogs I have worked with there have taught me so much about stress, fear and reactivity.I continue to study as dog training and science is rapidly changing. It is an exciting time to be involved. My focus has evolved from stopping behaviors after they happen to helping people and their animals (and other family members) set themselves up for success. It is more enjoyable to look for good things your dog is doing and reward those than to have them do something bad and punish it. Plus it works!

Certifications:

KPA-CTP Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Professional, UW-AAB University of Washington Applied Animal Behavior

Dog training services include

Reactive dog training
In home training
Off leash training
Puppy training

More info about Penny Bolton's dog training:

I do one on one sessions with people and their pups. We focus on the client's needs and build behaviors that work for dogs and their people. Each session is personalized with focus on using the environment, food, toys and games as rewards.

Behavioral issue focus:

I have worked with many dogs at the shelter who have behaviors that are challenging for an owner. Arousal issues- on leash, in the home, around other people or animals. Fearful or shy dogs. Potty training. Dogs and children. Issues around food. Bringing a new dog or puppy into the home.

Dog training methods:

I meet with clients and their dogs in person or via Zoom, for remote clients, for an initial 1 1/2 hour assessment session. We discuss your history, needs and expectations. I share current dog training/behavior science as it relates to your situation. I use positive rewards that can include food, play, toys and environmental enrichment to build functional behaviors for you and your dog. During the first session I will show you some simple first steps to work on your issues and will follow up with a plan for addressing the problems you want to work on. This includes videos and written resources. We do a short zoom follow up after a week or two of practice. Then make a plan for more in person or zoom sessions as needed.

Why I became a dog trainer:

Every dog trainer has a gateway dog. That dog you bring home and then realize you just don't know what to do with them. Ranger is an outgoing friendly herd dog mix. With some major phobias around noises and weather. He needs help dealing with scary things. I didn't realize that a lot of his problembehaviors were related to fear. The rescue I got him from told me to use a prong collar to make him walk nicely on leash. It didn't feel right to punish a dog when he didn't have the skills to walk on a leash plus it didn't get him to stop pulling. I started classes with a positive reinforcement training studio that used clickers and food. A light went on over both our heads. This can be fun! I am forever grateful to the folks at Ahimsa to showing us the way. It took me a while to really get it but I was hooked on dog behavior. Ranger brought me to animal behavior and we are having a ball!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

I love to meet people and their dog family members. So many stories! It fuels my spirit to be able to hear people's concerns and be able to help them find solutions that make both them and their pup happy. I use my positive reinforcement skills to help dogs and people. My favorite thing is to see a pic or get a text from a client the day after a session telling me that "it worked!"

My #1 dog training tip:

Ask yourself, and your dog, what are they trying to get? How can you set your dog and yourself up for success? Look for what you want and reward it!

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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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Penny Bolton

Certifications:

Dog training services include

More info about Penny Bolton's dog training:

Behavioral issue focus:

Dog training methods:

Why I became a dog trainer:

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

My #1 dog training tip:

See The Best Dog Trainers In Seattle

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Seattle

See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Seattle

David Adams

About Sniffspot

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