ABOUT ME
Amber - CDTK
Hello! I'm Amber, CDTK, the owner and trainer at A Very Gem K9!
I gained my certificate in dog training knowledge through CATCH Canine Trainers Academy where I learned valuable knowledge about how dogs learn and what really makes them tick. My training decisions are guided by LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) and I use positive reinforcement in order to set dogs up for success. I thrive on helping people understand their dog's emotions, feelings and fears as well as their likes and dislikes. I'm here to help you better understand and communicate more efficiently with your pups. My promise to you is that with a better understanding of how your dog's brain works, their motivations, and their needs the bond that grows between you and your dog will be absolutely astonishing!
I grew up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, which gave me the valuable experience of working with many different species and understanding their husbandry needs. I adopted the dog that changed my life when I was 15 years old. Remi, a six-month-old Rottweiler, was found abandoned on the side of the road. Like many rescue dogs, Remi had a lot of the issues to work through. She was nervous with strangers, barked, lunged, jumped fences, struggled with major food aggression, wrestled with separation anxiety, and more. To say that she was challenging would be an understatement! Despite it all, I loved this dog with all my heart. Through management and behavior modification, Remi lived a long and fulfilling life by my side. I want to give that gift to you and your dog too.
I have been fostering dogs since 2021 and I have helped place more than 80 dogs into appropriate homes. I became so passionate about rescue dogs - I helped cofound a rescue, Be My FurEvers! Through all of these fosters, I found myself drawn to the "problem child", especially the ones who needed a bit more guidance or who were simply misunderstood. Finding how each particular dog is motivated and communicates helped me to realize that inside every dog is a gem waiting to shine! I can't wait to help you find the Diamond within your Ruff!