Cara Wehmhoefer
Watertown,MA
Summary
Dynamic and skilled dog trainer who possesses not only a deep understanding of dog behavior and welfare, but also a discernment for the people who are responsible for their care and well-being. A skilled professional who is known for her patience and empathy with clients and their dogs. Diligent and trustworthy, ready to take on new challenges.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Dog Trainer
Chromatic K9
Boston, MA
2022.06 - Current
- Perform initial assessments of the dog's behavior, health condition, and environment to develop a plan for behavior modification.
- Maintain and manage all client scheduling, billing, and communication aspects of the dog training business.
- Conduct training outings with client dogs, specifically tailored to support clients in their training goals.
- Train and handle dogs with extensive behavior issues in public, ensuring their safety, as well as the safety of the general public.
- Instruct group classes, coaching clients through real-world scenarios and obedience drills.
- Adapt training methods and strategies to accommodate clients with disabilities.
- Advise clients on adoptions and purchases of specific animals.
- Implement safety protocols to prevent injuries to dogs and humans during training sessions as well as in the home.
- Build and maintain long term relationships with clients through regular sessions and ongoing written support via email and text.
Behavioral Modification Program Leader
Ruff Translating
Boston, MA
2020.01 - 2022.06
- Conducted intensive training programs for dogs struggling with behavior problems, including, but not limited to aggression, reactivity, separation anxiety, overarousal, and handling sensitivity.
- Provided clients with detailed summaries and write-ups of training plans as well as observations regarding their health and behavior.
- Maintained and documented training plans for dogs attending the facility's day training program.
- Trained employees on effective training, handling, and animal husbandry techniques.
- Assisted in grooming duties for Behavior Modification Program dogs.
- Advised in the training plans conducted by other staff trainers, offering feedback when appropriate.
- Advised and assisted in task training and exposure exercises for the facility's Service Dog Program.
- Consulted with clients regarding animal surrender and behavioral euthanasia.
Dog Handler/Lead Hiker and Trainer
Boston For The Dogs
Boston, MA
2018.02 - 2020.01
- Conducted pack hikes of up to 6 dogs at a time, ensuring the comfort and safety of each dog.
- Assisted Head Trainer with cases such as aggression, separation anxiety, reactivity
- Conducted private training sessions for clients of Boston for the Dogs to address behavior issues at home.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries related to services provided or general questions about canine behavior.
- Demonstrated use of various types of equipment such as long lines, prong collars, head halters, clickers, treats bags and toys when necessary.
- Maintained and documented training plans for dogs attending the facility's day training program
- Worked in a high-volume kennel environment, conducting training exercises for groups of up to eight dogs at a time.
- Implemented safety protocols to prevent injuries to dogs and humans during training sessions.
- Coordinated continuing education training classes for staff to develop employee performance.
Desk Manager
Camp Canine
Ashland, MA
2015.06 - 2018.02
- Greeted clients upon pickup and drop off
- Scheduled boarding and daycare reservations in person, via phone call and via email
- Trained employees on dog playgroup management strategies
- Worked in a high volume, fast paced kennel environment
- Prepared meals for up to 60 boarding and daycare dog per day
- Cared for solo boarding dogs who were not permitted in playgroup yards for behavioral reasons
- Delegated tasks to all daycare attendants on shift, including but not limited to cleaning, grooming, feeding, written report cards, etc.
Education
Bachelor of Music - Songwriting
Berklee College of Music
Boston, MA2018-05
Skills
- Interpersonal communication
- Analytical skills
- Patience
- Problem solving
- Coaching
- Scheduling management
- Team collaboration
- Public safety awareness
- City and non-city driving
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Dog Trainer
Chromatic K9
2022.06 - Current
Behavioral Modification Program Leader
Ruff Translating
2020.01 - 2022.06
Dog Handler/Lead Hiker and Trainer
Boston For The Dogs
2018.02 - 2020.01
Desk Manager
Camp Canine
2015.06 - 2018.02
Bachelor of Music - Songwriting
Berklee College of Music