Nea-Owner/Trainer

Training for over 20 years, Nea started her love affair for training as a young child by reading to the family foster dogs, many of whom were recovering from neglect, abuse, and lack of socialization. As a volunteer trainer with assistance and service dog organizations, shelters, and non-profit rescues, she continued to pursue her love of training, eventually transitioning to leading group classes and private training sessions. She has also worked in practically every area there is within the industry, including daycare, boarding, and specialty training facilities.  

During her time working with rescues, she developed a particular interest in dogs with reactivity — which she describes as the most challenging, as well as the most rewarding. She believes that reactive dogs are just as capable, loving, and worthy as any other, and deserve a chance to lead happy, fulfilled lives. She joined Rescued Hearts Northwest as a volunteer in 2015, as well as the Alternative Humane Society in 2019.

As a self-professed “behavior nerd,” Nea is deeply committed to promoting and utilizing only humane, evidence-based training methods, and continues to pursue ongoing education through workshops, conferences, seminars, and online courses. She is a Dunbar Academy Top Dogs Member, a Professional Member of the APDT,  Supporting Member of the IAABC, certified in canine first aid and CPR through the American Red Cross, and is currently studying for her Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) credentials.

In her downtime, Nea is usually working in her garden with her dogs, trying out new recipes, or dabbling in any number of crafty projects. She currently resides with her shelter mutts — a 16 year old boston terrier mix named Duke , a 16 yr old German Shepherd/Husky mix named Kira, and a five year old pitbull/mastiff rescue puppy, Captain Jack Barkness, as well as several rescue fish near Bellingham, Washington.

Memberships & Certificates awarded:

• Professional Member APDT

• Supporting Member IAABC

• Dunbar Academy Top Dogs Member

• Dog First Aid, American Red Cross

• Certificate in Dog Emotion and Cognition from Duke University. 

• Certificate in Animal Behavior and Welfare from University of Edinburgh, Scotland

• Certified AKC CGC Evaluator

Jesse K- Group Handler

bio coming soon!

Aly A- Group Handler

bio coming soon!