MEET GARI

As a child growing up on the outskirts of Manhattan, all I asked of my parents was to give me a small zoo of my own. I brought home every stray animal I could pick up and carry.

As a young adult, I was fortunate enough to work at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City as an assistant to the curators of Mammalogy. 

But the west coast beckoned me and I moved to Washington State where I completed a B.A. in two disciplines; Ethology (Animal Behavior) and Photography from Western Washington University.

Upon graduation, I worked as an Assistant Zookeeper Aide for 15 years at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, primarily with Asian Sun Bears and Sloth Bears. I also photographed several exhibits for display and many international presentations.

Pursuing a simultaneous career as a photographer, I have been published in several national magazines, books and newspapers and continue to photograph today, specializing in pets. See some of my work here.

Becoming a certified dog trainer and canine behavior consultant was a natural progression and I attended the highly acclaimed, licensed and prestigious Northwest School of Canine Studies, obtaining a certificate in Canine Studies (CCS) as a Behavior Consultant.

Since 2007, I have been helping dogs and their companions on both coasts, Washington State and now as a permanent resident in South Florida.  

I have helped hundreds of dogs and their humans to achieve a harmonious balance where once there was none and have many satisfied clients from all walks of life, including well known celebrities, athletes, high profile entrepreneurs and CEO's - as well as retirees, working families, single men and women on a budget.

My education is ongoing through seminars with highly acclaimed internationally known behaviorists in canine science. This field continues to expand with exciting new data in canine behavioral science and I am always eager to learn and apply modern techniques to my training skills. My love and appreciation for dogs grows and their astounding intelligence and abilities to communicate with us never ceases to amaze me.

The methods I believe in and use with excellent results are SAFE, long lasting and do not cause physical or emotional pain or intimidation. I begin by building a strong foundation of mutual understanding and cooperation through teaching and reinforcing desired behaviors, even with the most aggressive dogs. I create a safe environment so dogs can excel at learning in order to achieve maximum success.

My philosophy in teaching dogs and their human companions is simple: create an atmosphere that is conducive to learning, make it fun, reward it well, be patient.

I look forward to helping you and your canine companions. Please contact me today so we can work together to achieve your goals.