About Dawn

I have loved animals for as long as I can remember. While trying to save every creature I could-yes, even the earthworms washed up on the sidewalk after a good rainstorm, securing a robin’s nest full of eggs that broke loose from the ledge she built it on, and saving the baby robins from a snake trying to eat them on my deck-my friends and family quickly nicknamed me Ellie Mae.As an adult with a deep love for my dogs, I urgently needed a dog trainer to help me manage two fighting female rescues and prevent them from harming each other or my family. Thankfully, my veterinarian referred me to a positive reinforcement dog trainer. With the use of a clicker and small pieces of Vienna sausages, the trainer showed me how to handle my situation without yelling, inflicting pain, fear, or force in just one hour. I was hooked and wanted to become that trainer when I “grew up.” She helped me keep my dogs in the home for the rest of their lives. I aim to help all dogs remain in their homes and happily coexist with their humans for life. 

I am a certified dog trainer specializing in positive reinforcement, science-based methods, and fear-free techniques.

In 2013, I graduated from the Peaceable Paws Level 1 Intern Pat Miller Academy. Prior to the course, I was required to read several books and prepare for discussions and tests on the covered concepts. I worked with a shelter dog that had no prior training before arriving at Peaceable Paws. I gained knowledge about positively training dogs, established a solid foundation in behavioral science related to dog training and behavior, and developed a deeper understanding of how dogs think and learn.

In 2021, I enrolled in Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA) to obtain my professional dog training and behavior certification, VSA-CDT. VSA furthered my scientific skills and expanded my knowledge and understanding of canine ethology when working with dogs. It was a college-level course exploring behavior science and the hands-on application of force-free dog training methods.

After graduation, I began working for Camp Happy Dog, a dog daycare, boarding, and training facility, teaching clicker-training basic manners and puppy classes.

I have attended various workshops with my dogs at Cold Nose College in Murphy, NC, including Fabulous Focus. I also obtained a Pet First Aid and CPR certification, which will be renewed in 2025. For the last two years, I have volunteered at the Rescued Program at the Colwell Detention Center in Blairsville, GA.

I’ve received a Certificate of Achievement from L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation Professional Course to become a certified Family Dog Mediator, FDM, to understand the “why” behind dog behavior and not just “how” to change behaviors.

I consistently build on my knowledge and further my education in force-free, reward-based, science-based pet training. Next on my list is completing the Fear-Free Animal Trainer Program, which will enable me to partner with veterinary teams to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress, thereby improving an animal’s emotional well-being during veterinary care and home care.

I am a member of the Pet Professional Guild-compassionate, ethical, and humane pet professionals.

Informed by science, guided by empathy, governed by ethics

Our Mission

Our mission is to teach clients how to communicate with their canine companions so that they can cohabitate peacefully. We also enhance our clients’ and their dogs’ quality of life by educating families on creating an enriching environment that addresses every dog’s physical and behavioral needs. 

Our Vision

Dawn of a New Dog envisions creating an inclusive community that emphasizes the importance of educating dog owners about meeting their dogs’ needs and desires, ultimately improving their lives and the bonds they share with their human companions. The goal is to keep all dogs in their homes, living their best lives alongside their human companions.

Our Values

Integrity

Our commitment to excellence is founded on our steadfast honesty, fairness, and ethics in both words and actions.

Education

We’re excited to embrace transformation in our industry by prioritizing ongoing education in our work.

Passion

Our enthusiasm arises from our sincere affection for dogs, aiming to meet their needs and keep them in their forever home. It drives our commitment to consistently ensure dogs feel at ease, secure, and content.

Community

Our mission is to support and enhance our community by cultivating a sense of belonging and harmony between our clients and their dogs. We help clients understand how to enjoy their time in the community with their dogs safely, ensuring that both clients and their dogs have a positive experience while out. L.E.G.S Certification