Hi, I'm Ginger.
KPA-CTP · Atlas Certified Service Dog Trainer 20+ years working with dogs 
Who I Am Science-based. Relationship-first. I've worked with many breeds across all ages and temperaments for more than 20 years, and I've been committed to science-based, positive reinforcement training since 2019. Training starts with understanding the relationship you have with your dog and how your nervous system interacts with theirs. I've also raised puppies for organizations such as Canine Companions and Guide Dogs for the Blind, experiences that shaped how I think about reliability, clarity, and true partnership between dogs and humans. This knowledge helps create clarity and confidence on both ends of the leash. When dogs feel understood, they learn faster. When humans feel supported, everything gets easier.
My Approach The Sunflower Method. My training plans follow a clear, thoughtful progression that moves from foundation skills to real-world reliability. I see dogs as whole beings with emotions, instincts, and individual needs, and I train in a way that honors that. My work is shaped by Susan Garrett, Leslie McDevitt, and Kim Brophey’s L.E.G.S. model, along with more than two decades of hands-on experience. Whether your goal is a well-mannered family companion, a Service Dog, or a Therapy Dog, your training plan should fit your dog, your goals, and your life.
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Seed Stage Introduce skills in calm, low-distraction environments where your dog can think clearly and feel supported. This is where new behaviors take root and your dog begins to understand what you’re asking.
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Sprout Stage Build fluency by adding cues, distance, and distractions at a pace that keeps your dog confident and connected. This is where skills strengthen, grow, and become more reliable.
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Sunflower Stage Proof behaviors for real-life reliability with thoughtful setups that help your dog succeed. This stage builds true confidence for both ends of the leash and prepares your dog for everyday challenges.
The greenhouse vs. the storm
THIS 🏡 Start in the greenhouse
Calm, quiet, steady conditions. This is where new skills take root and your dog can learn without pressure.
NOT THIS ⚡🌧️⚡ Skip to the storm
Too much, too soon. The seed never gets a chance to grow.
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New place = new skill. Every time. Your dog may know “sit” in the kitchen, but that doesn’t mean she knows “sit” at the dog park. Same seed, completely different soil.
The Three Ds Change Only One at a Time
📏 Distance We begin far enough away from triggers for your dog to stay calm, connected, and able to think clearly.
⏱️ Duration We build skills through short, successful reps that grow naturally as your dog’s confidence increases.
🐿️ Distraction We add complexity slowly and thoughtfully, only when your dog is ready to handle more.
Go further. Book a Free Consult → Free · 15 minutes · No pressure
