Meet Your Certified Dog Trainers
Separation Anxiety
Patti O’Farrell is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), Karen Pryor Academy Training Partner (KPA CTP), a Puppy Start Right Preschool Instructor, a licensed educator with Family Paws Parenting Education, a certified Level 1 TAGTeach (Teaching with Acoustical Guidance), and graduate of Animal Behavior College (ABCDT) Training.
Patti’s professional education and experiences in training people and dogs include:
- Separation Anxiety
- Behavior modification for dog reactivity, people reactivity, generalized fear, and resource guarding
- Proficient in manners/obedience levels and ages
- Agility for fun, and a multitude of tricks
- Apprentice service dog training for Tender Loving Canine Assistant Dogs, Vista, CA, and Wounded Warrior’s Freedom Dogs
Patti is a professional member of the Pet Professional Guild, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, Karen Pryor Academy, Family Paws Parenting Education, Doggone Safe, and Society of Veterinarian Behavior Technicians.
Currently and for the past 9 years, Patti volunteers weekly training volunteers and the more behaviorally challenged dogs at Rancho Coastal Humane Society in, Encinitas, CA. This includes assessing behavior, implementing training plans for specific individual dogs’ needs, and training the volunteers on how to work with the dogs (appropriate for their experience and skill levels), creating more adoptions overall.
Private Lesson & Group Class Instructors
Elizabeth Green is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer accredited by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Training (CCPDT). Additionally, she holds the title of Certified Family Dog Mediator – L.E.G.S.® Applied Ethology. Her journey into dog training began with a quest for resources to help her fearful rescue dog. Through this experience, she discovered the transformative power of positive reinforcement and the significance of behavioral patterns.
Elizabeth is passionate about witnessing dogs build confidence as they navigate their world, fostering a stronger bond between humans and their canine companions. Beyond her expertise in dog training, Elizabeth is a PhD candidate in ecology, bringing a scientific approach to her training methods.
At Building Bonds, Elizabeth plays a vital role, leading classes such as Puppy Preschool, Puppy Kindergarten, and Manners and Life Skills. Her commitment to positive reinforcement and her scientific background make her a valuable asset in helping dogs and their owners thrive in their relationship and training journey.
Michele Almeida is on her journey to becoming a master-level dog trainer, currently holding the position of an apprentice-level trainer. She is actively pursuing certification through the Dognostics Dog Trainer Certificate Program, showcasing her dedication to honing her skills in the field. Michele’s passion for learning is evident as she consistently engages in educational activities focused on dog behavior and training, supplementing her formal certification program.
With a background in Elementary Education and experience as a former elementary classroom educator, Michele finds joy in teaching children, adults, and dogs alike. She extends her expertise to a local education co-op where she teaches children. Michele takes on various roles at Building Bonds, instructing Puppy Preschool, Puppy Kindergarten, and Tricks classes. Additionally, she serves as the administrative assistant for Building Bonds, guiding clients to the right path for fostering strong relationships and addressing behavior issues with their dogs.
As a committed member of the Pet Professional Guild, Michele brings a holistic approach to her training methods. Her multifaceted skills and genuine passion make her an invaluable asset, enriching the experiences of both clients and their furry companions at Building Bonds.