Carrie’s lifelong dedication to animal welfare began with her and her family’s commitment to fostering over 100 stray and semi-feral cats and kittens, each with unique personalities and challenges. This early exposure to animal care led her to her first role in a veterinary hospital, where she progressed from a kennel assistant to a veterinary technician. Throughout high school and college, Carrie balanced her studies with work in various pet-related roles, including doggy daycares and pet stores. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Biology, further cementing her path in animal care.
After college, Carrie’s career evolved from a veterinary technician to launching her own venture, ‘Carrie Pawpins Pet Nanny’. Her business specialized in providing care for pets with behavioral and medical needs, a niche that few others were equipped to handle. Carrie’s career path then pivoted to a sales role in veterinary and pharmaceutical supplies, during which she pursued and earned her Master’s Degree in Companion Animal Behavior Analysis and Counseling (MS-CABAC). This advanced education, coupled with hands-on experience with Animal Humane New Mexico and mentorship under a veterinary behaviorist, deepened her expertise in animal behavior and learning theories.
Carrie is not only passionate about animal behavior but is also a staunch advocate for low-stress handling techniques. Her commitment to continuous learning has led her to become a Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA), achieve Fear Free Elite certification, and become a certified instructor in PetTech Pet First Aid and CPR. Additionally, she holds a Low Stress Handling Silver Certification and is an active member of the Pet Professional Guild.
While comfortable working with both cats and dogs, Carrie’s particular interest lies in educating pet owners about feline behavior and the critical role of proper socialization. Her approach, rooted in force-free and scientifically backed methods, allows her to address various behavioral issues, helping owners strengthen their bond with their pets. Currently, Carrie collaborates with the Jackson Galaxy Project and Greater Good in their Cat Pawsitive Program as a Trainer-Mentor, teaching shelter staff to manage behavioral issues in cats through clicker training.
Carrie also offers a range of services, including private sessions for cat owners dealing with challenges like aggression, fearfulness, and inappropriate behaviors. She conducts kitten kindergarten classes, clicker training sessions for cats, puppy and basic dog obedience classes, and educational seminars covering common behavioral issues in both cats and dogs. Additionally, she provides training in Pet First Aid & CPR, conducts AKC classes, and performs evaluations, sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with a wide range of pet owners.
