Creating Calm and Harmonious Homes
Canine Zen
About Stephanie!
Stephanie Barger
Founder/Lead Trainer
CSAT - Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer
CSAT - Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer
Behavior Consultant and Separation Anxiety Trainer
All my life, I wanted to do something that had to do with animals, usually dogs, and seriously considered dog training in my 20s. But, life happened and I went on to pursue other jobs or passions; all of which fed my love of learning, teaching, and helping others. Eventually, I spent several years teaching at the college level as an adjunct instructor, both in the classroom and online. You benefit from many of the skills I acquired throughout my professional life. You and your dog are unique individuals. When working with you, even if the things we are addressing are shared by others, I provide training plans that consider your lifestyle while still providing desired results.
Supporting learning at both ends of the leash
The name “Canine Zen” embodies my approach to life with our dogs. Our dogs are living, breathing, sentient beings and are living their best lives when they are given the opportunity to be our companions and partners. To facilitate that, I show you how to effectively communicate with your dog AND understand what they are trying to communicate to you. I give you the tools to teach your dog how to live harmoniously in your home and participate in the activities with you. To do that, I provide a safe environment for both species where they can learn and thrive together without fear, pain, or judgement.
Constantly learning and improving
I believe it is important to provide the most current training techniques to my clients and their dogs. Over the years, we have learned a lot about dogs and how they learn, and I stay on top of current research and findings. This helps me to evaluate and improve the services I provide to ensure that you are getting the best guidance possible for your situation. By maintaining and adding to my credentials, attending continuing education conferences, seminars, and workshops, and reading the latest books and papers, I apply what I learn to your situation in a way that improves your relationship and life with your dog.
Schedule a call and tell me a little about the help you need.
Certifications and Organizational Affiliations
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Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
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Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA)
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Certificate of Completion-Aggression in Dogs Master Class
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Fear Free Certified Professional (FFP-Trainer)
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Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
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Member of Association of Professional Trainers (APT)
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Member of International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
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Member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
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Alignable Ambassador
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Owner/Operator of Canine Zen LLC