Dog Training & Behaviour Therapy - Flying Dog - Guelph, ON

Meet the Trainer

Tara has been working with animals all her life, starting first with horses. Tara worked as a barn manager and trail guide for most of her high school career. Then, when she brought home her first dog and enrolled her in puppy school Tara knew that this is what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. The rest, as they say, is history!

Tara has a strong educational background; although practical experience is necessary (Tara has been teaching since 2002), the importance of professional education in animal behavior and learning theory is essential. Tara studied both at University, focusing her Psychology degree on psychological learning theory and animal behavior: if you do not understand the mechanisms behind how organisms think you cannot effectively teach and problem solve.

"Thank you Tara, you were a great instructor and very patient." -Alice & Luke

Tara chose her preferred styles of training by researching learning methods. Study after study has proven that positive reinforcement methods are the most effective way to teach both humans and animals. Flying Dog’s training methods are based on psychological study and fact, not on hearsay or trial and error.

After completing her degree Tara went on to study canine training and behavior through Canine Communication Studies, a renowned training school. Since graduating Tara always makes sure she continues to learn and grow. She attends numerous training conferences and workshops across Canada each year. The world of animal training and behavior is not static, you can never know everything about dogs and training so you must always be seeking out new methods and information.

"Tara is fabulous! [She is] really supportive and encouraging. Thank you."-Kara & Scout

Besides teaching classes at her school, Tara also teaches seminars and workshops through various breed clubs, including the Newfoundland Dog Club of Central Ontario.

Tara is a member of the Canadian Kennel Club, the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers and the International Positive Dog Training Association as well as various rescue and breed clubs in Ontario.

"I believe that training should focus on adapting the dog to our culture and teaching them how to live happily with us. Many behaviour problems are often caused by a clash between dog culture and our own. My methods focus heavily on teaching dogs how to live happily with their family, while teaching the family how to better understand their dog."

"[Tara] was very patient with Gracie and I. She made me feel relaxed." -Richard and Gracie

Tara shares her life with her Labrador, Hero and her Newfoundland, Luna. She works with her dogs in Water Rescue, Carting, Obedience, Rally-Obedience and Field work.

Tara has been featured in the following publications: