Gavin Diller
Summary
Dedicated and results-driven dog trainer with 15 years of professional experience working with private clients and shelter dogs.
Skilled in handling dogs of all breeds, temperaments, and behavioral challenges, with proven ability to educate and effectively communicate with clients, staff, and the public.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Behavior Coordinator
SPCA Westchester
Briarcliff Manor, NY
2024 - Current
- Lead handler for dangerous dogs, including dogs who exhibit aggression or have a bite history, in both shelter and clinic settings.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff and cross-functional departments to assess and address behavioral concerns in shelter animals.
- Conduct behavioral evaluations to develop individualized care strategies and behavior modification plans that improve adoptability outcomes.
- Implement enrichment programs to enhance mental stimulation and well-being of shelter animals.
- Organize and supervise playgroups for shelter dogs, monitoring play dynamics and implementing behavior-based interventions as needed.
- Train staff and volunteers on effective handling techniques for managing animal behavior safely.
- Serve as an expert resource on behavioral issues, offering guidance to staff members faced with challenging situations or complex cases.
- Coordinate with adoption counselors to match animals with suitable families based on behavioral assessments.
Professional Dog Trainer
TheK9Workshop (self Employed)
Tarrytown, NY
2012 - Current
- Member and decoy in protection work for the Eastern States Working Dogs Association. (2018-2021)
- Teach Beginner through advanced obedience both on and off leash.
- Implement puppy socialization classes that promoted early development of essential social skills.
- Evaluate animals to determine temperaments, abilities and aptitude for training.
- Conduct one-on-one training sessions with dog owners to ensure effective communication and understanding.
- Use effective techniques to modify undesirable behavior such as resource guarding, leash reactivity, and human aggression.
Adoption Supervisor
SPCA Westchester
Briarcliff Manor, NY
2023 - 2024
- Created and implemented Standard Operating Procedures for the Adoption Program, including on-site and off-site adoptions.
- Maintained accurate records of adoptions, ensuring data integrity and compliance with local and New York State regulations.
- Collaborated with veterinary and behavior staff to ensure animals received necessary screenings before adoption.
- Managed and facilitated the adoption process from initial inquiry through placement, providing support and education to adopters.
- Developed educational materials for adopters on animal care, behavior, training, and post-adoption support.
- Trained new staff and volunteers on adoption procedures and customer service best practices.
- Coordinated adoption events to promote animal adoptions and engage the community.
- Drove and maintained a 26ft mobile adoption unit throughout Westchester County, Connecticut and New York City.
Kennel Manager
SPCA Westchester
Briarcliff Manor, NY
2020 - 2023
- Managed and assisted in daily feeding and medicating for all shelter dogs, ensuring proper care, and health monitoring.
- Ensured cleanliness of facilities by establishing a rigorous cleaning schedule, improving overall hygiene levels.
- Managed inventory to ensure adequate supplies, effectively reducing costs and waste.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and emergency protocols to ensure team efficiency.
- Oversaw the hiring and onboarding processes for new kennel staff, building a skilled team that maintained high standards of care.
- Evaluated employee performance and conveyed constructive feedback to improve skills.
- Cultivated a positive team environment to boost organization morale and support staff retention.
Assistant Manager
Pet Supplies Plus
Yorktown Heights, NY
2016 - 2017
Education
High School Diploma -
Lakeland High School
Shrub Oak, NYSkills
- Canine Handling
- Canine Decoy Work
- Behavior Assessments
- Behavior Modification
- Obedience Training
- Effective Communication
- Public Engagement
- Conflict Resolution
- Organization
- Dependability
Timeline
Behavior Coordinator
SPCA Westchester
2024 - Current
Professional Dog Trainer
TheK9Workshop (self Employed)
2012 - Current
Adoption Supervisor
SPCA Westchester
2023 - 2024
Kennel Manager
SPCA Westchester
2020 - 2023
Assistant Manager
Pet Supplies Plus
2016 - 2017
High School Diploma -
Lakeland High School