Cara, the owner of Smarty Paws Canine College LLC, has been involved in the animal rescue and veterinary clinic profession for nearly 25 years, working in rescue organizations and large and small vet clinics as a veterinary nurse. She holds a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed), KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy-Canine Training Partner). She has always been drawn to animals, starting at 5 years old when she would convince people to let her sit on horses and wander her neighborhood to find dogs. In 2016, she launched her dog care and training business to share her knowledge and expertise with dogs and their guardians.
Training Philosophy
Cara doesn’t view herself as a “trainer”, but sees her job as a facilitator and coach to both pet and pet parent: To clarify expectations, strengthen their bonds of trust and understanding to create harmony in and outside the home.
Services
Smarty Paws Canine College LLC offers a variety of training programs, both in-person and online, for dogs of all ages and breeds. Their services include:
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In-Person Behavior Training:
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Terror to Terrific TeensTM (T3):
An 8-week program for teenage dogs who are struggling with behavioral issues.
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Perfectly Imperfect Pups:
An 8-week program for dogs who are exhibiting anxiety, barking, lunging, or snapping at strangers or dogs.
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From Shy to Hi:
An 8-week program for dogs who are afraid of everything, including new people, storms, or even their owners.
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Stay and LearnTM:
A 20-day program where dogs stay with a certified trainer from Monday to Friday, receiving daily, consistent training. Owners receive support on weekends to maintain and reinforce training at home.
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DIY Online Training:
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Smart StartTM:
A self-paced mini-course for newly adopted dogs, covering common challenges during the first four weeks of bringing a new dog home.
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Jump Start your Pup SmartTM:
An online program for puppies 8 weeks to 8 months old, addressing common puppy problems.
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Terror to Terrific TeensTM:
An online program for dogs 8 months to 2 years old, helping owners navigate the teenage years and turn their dog’s energy into a positive connection.
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All in-person training programs include:
- 8 private sessions over 8 weeks
- Coach in your Pocket: Access to a personal canine coach between sessions
- Smarty Paws Video Vault: 24/7 access to quick tips and training guidance
- Weekly session updates via voice memo and/or video
- Membership in the Smarty Paws Canine CollegeTM Private Facebook Group
- Membership in the Tails & TrailsTM(T&T) Private Facebook Group (for in-person clients only)
- Farm Stays (for in-person clients only)
All online training programs include:
- Smarty Paws Video Vault: 24/7 access to quick tips and training guidance
- Membership in the Smarty Paws Canine CommunityTM Facebook Group
- Discounted rate on in-person training programs
Certifications
Cara holds a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed), KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy-Canine Training Partner).
Specializations
Smarty Paws Canine College LLC specializes in positive reinforcement dog training, focusing on helping dogs with fear, anxiety, reactivity, and general obedience. They also offer programs for puppies and teenage dogs.
Training Methods
Smarty Paws Canine College LLC uses force-free and positive reinforcement-based training methods to build a relationship of clear communication between dogs and their owners.
Customer Reviews
Melissa C.:
Maggie, our two year old labradoodle, came to us six months ago with extreme fears about men and being out in public. Through working with Cara, she has improved significantly!
Mike I.: Cara at Smarty Paws is absolutely the best ever to help with our dogs. Not only is she patient with the dogs, but she is also patient with the owners. We have learned a lot from her. Our dog is becoming more confident and well behaved through her expert advice and training.
Ieshia L.: I’ve seen what they are capable of. Over the past 5 years of utilizing their services, I couldn’t imagine trusting anyone else. I swear they speak dog! My dog is so much better since Cara helped me socialize him.
