Meet Sarah, Trainer

Growing up surrounded by eight dogs of various breeds and personalities, Sarah developed a deep passion for understanding and connecting with dogs beyond simple playtime. Her upbringing illuminated the nuances of canine behavior, inspiring her to build meaningful relationships with dogs and their owners through effective training. Sarah has been professionally training dogs full time since 2023, with 14 years of experience as a dedicated hobbyist trainer. She trained under Valhalla Dog Training LLC in Philadelphia and pursued veterinary nursing at Harcum College for a year and a half, giving her a strong foundation in canine care and behavior. Sarah’s approach to training is centered on teaching humans how to “speak canine.” Her philosophy is rooted in communication, comprehension, and application, empowering owners to understand their dog’s needs and motivations. By creating a clear, balanced environment, Sarah helps dogs and their owners build confidence and strengthen their bond. Sarah is the proud owner of two beloved dogs: Bug, a Boston Terrier, is her personal inspiration for dog training. After being attacked at six months old, Bug has thrived through consistent training and care, proving the transformative power of dedication and love. Paisley, a pocket Bully mix, has been her steadfast companion for eight years. Dubbed the “queen of the couch,” Paisley holds a special place in Sarah’s heart. Sarah’s favorite skills to teach are rock-solid recall and place commands, which she considers the “emergency brakes” of dog training. These commands ensure safety and control, even in unexpected situations. Sarah is inspired by Missoula’s welcoming community and its diversity—both in people and dogs! She’s passionate about making a positive impact and helping canine companions thrive in this vibrant area. When she’s not training dogs, Sarah enjoys the arts, including painting, drawing, writing, and reading, especially while soaking in the beauty of Montana’s mountains. She’s also pursuing additional certifications, such as AKC Canine Good Citizen, pet CPR, and advanced behavioral training. For Sarah, the best part of being a dog trainer is watching a dog develop into its best self. Her goal is to give every dog—and their owner—the tools they need to lead a fulfilling life together.