Susi Czarnek

Credentials

Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
Evaluator – AKC Canine Good Citizen
Evaluator – AKC Temperament Test
Member – Animal Behavior Society
Member – Association Pet Dog Trainers
Member – United Nosework Tri-Cities
Volunteer – Lone Star Akita Rescue
Volunteer – Mid-Columbia Chapter Leader for Love on a Leash

Education

Certificate – Applied Animal Behavior (University of Washington)
Associate of Applied Science – Project Management with High Honors (Columbia Basin College)

Titles Earned on Dogs

Canine Good Citizen – CGC (3), CGCA (2), CGCU (1)
NoseWork – NN, AN
Pet Therapy – THDN (2), THD, THDA, LOAL Senior Specialist
Rally – RN, RI
Trick Dog – TDN, TDI
Fit Dog

Why She Trains

My life has always included animals. I rescued Bitsy, the summer of my fourth birthday. I have shared my home with dogs ever since. I believe the best training uses positive methods to protect their confidence, build communication and clarity, and create a bond between a dog and their handler that is beautiful to see. I train because I want to help other teams develop that relationship.

As a retired personal trainer with a deep background in healthcare. I prefer to take an individualized approach to training. Each dog/handler team is unique. Having three dogs in the house has only reaffirmed this philosophy. Each has a different “job”. Different reinforcement and “voice” motivates them.

As I watched Adele with my mom, I knew she “chose” Pet Therapy. So, we visit senior centers with Love on a Leash. Apollo showed an aptitude for scent work even as a puppy. He and my husband John compete in Nosework. Ajax came to us as a foster with a traumatic background and trust issues. He taught me the value of building and protecting their confidence and maintaining a connection. He is my work “pawdner”, comes with me to teach, and is a CGC neutral dog for evaluations. Ajax and I are building teamwork in the Rally ring, but what he really loves is pulling “in harness”. In the winter, you will find us skijoring at Mount Spokane. We look forward to seeing you out at 4 Paws DogWorks!