PHILOSOPHY

Training is not about "Obedience". Obedience is simply the by product of effective communication between human and dog.

The classic way that we, as humans, have trained animals in the past was by demanding or coercing obedience. However, Modern R+ science based training is based on effective, two-way communication and setting clear and healthy boundaries. This starts with understanding how to create an optimal learning environment where the learning itself becomes the primary motivator in any training scenario. Choice is imperative in creating cooperative behavior.

Consent is not just for humans!

There is no one-size-fits-all training module
when it comes to behavior modification.

MISSION

Why choose a behavior specialist? Accurate behavior analysis requires nuanced understanding of behavior and how it manifests in each individual. From there you apply theoretical knowledge and techniques to address problems. I include learning theory, behavioral and cognitive science, ethological science, and genetic science as well as dynamic learning exercises in my behavior modification practice. HOW and WHY an individual perceives events and responds to them is as important as WHAT behavior is being expressed.

A good trainer or behaviorist does not just treat the symptom, but goes to the root of the issue. They will work with you in helping you understand how to effectively work in creating the behaviors you DO want while extinguishing the ones you don’t want with a safe, effective, humane, science-based approach.

I teach how to positively motivate a sentient being to doing what you would like them to do by choice! I am dedicated to teaching how using proper positive motivators and giving empowering choices result in far better behavior consistency over corrections based training.

Continuing Education

Crystina has a commitment to constant personal and professional development. It is her belief that every field of knowledge can and IS always being improved upon. Doing something a certain way, simply because it is "the way it's always been done", is silly and counter-productive when there are always new discoveries and science emerging in the field. Therefore, Crystina spends an average of 10+ hours in a typical work week (on top of her 90+ hour full work schedule) on updating herself on emerging science and behavioral research; both through formal continuing education credits and informal education such as professional podcasts, peer-reviewed literature, professional forums, etc.

Why continue to train an individual the way you've always been taught how to train when science has proven there are more effective and humane ways of doing it? An approach that builds on a bond based on trust, reliability and clear, two-way communication, instead of one that can potentially degrade it? You are here because the way you have been trying to communicate with your dog has not been working for you. I invite you to open your mind to exciting new possibilities, armed with knowledge and enthusiasm for learning!

MEET THE TRAINER

Crystina has an extensive education in the behavioral sciences and in-field experience working with exotic, domestive, and wild animals. She graduated on the Dean's list at the top of her Animal Behavior Management and Training program. Crystina has over 15 years of experience working as an animal behavior professional in facilities all around the world with over 150 different species of animals including (not not limited to) large carnivores, cetaceans, primates, equines, rodents, reptiles, birds of prey, domestic cats and dogs, and even wild sharks. She is an active member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA), and is a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator (#101989).

about

TEACHING THROUGH GAME PLAY

"Scientists have recently determined that it takes approximately 400 repetitions to create a new synapse in the brain - unless it is done with play, in which case, it takes between 10 to 20 repetitions!"

-Dr. Karyn Purvis

Did you know that play enhances learning to an astonishing degree? What better way to motivate your dog to engage with you and learn behaviors and skills that will help them succeed in our human world!

LEARN MORE!