Who is The Fairy Dogmother?
The Fairy Dogmother is a full-service dog training company offering private training services in Point Loma, Ocean Beach, and the greater San Diego area.
Stephanie graduated with distinction from the Victoria Stilwell Dog Training Academy and is Certified in Dog Training and Behavior.
What’s my deal?
Why do I do this? The answer is simple. I care about dogs, which means I care very much about people with dogs.
My goal as a trainer is to teach you the skills you need so your relationship with your dog is the best it can be.
I use modern dog training and teaching techniques that are scientifically proven to be more effective than the old-school ways of using punishment, corrections, and force. I don’t use equipment that inflicts pain, such as prong, shock, or choke collars. These types of equipment don’t give dogs the information about what it is we want, nor does it keep them from hurting themselves. They serve no purpose in the learning process.
Lasting behavior adjustment is best accomplished with clear communication, understanding, and encouragement. Once learned, behaviors that are reinforced positively and practiced frequently will become lifelong changes. Happy dog, happy owner.
How did it happen?
With over 20 years as a dog handler, walker, and sitter, many people asked me training questions. I had the right answers sometimes but often, I didn’t-which was frustrating. I also found myself in challenging situations with my own dog, as well as dogs in my care. While I didn’t know what to do in that moment, I knew I wanted to get it right. So I went to school but it needed to be the right school. I enrolled at the Victoria Stilwell Dog Training Academy, became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and found the answers I was looking for, which of course led to more questions. Now it’s an ongoing and satisfying quest.
I am constantly learning through classes, webinars, and attending conferences. The study and science of dog behavior has evolved rapidly in the last 20 years, and new discoveries are made every day. It feels it’s almost impossible to keep up, but that’s exciting to me and helps me help dogs in a meaningful and effective way. As a trainer, nothing is more satisfying for me than when frustrated dog owners find themselves able to make changes in their dog’s behavior that work at both ends of the leash. That’s why I do what I do.