Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Michelle Michalek

East Aurora ,NY

Summary

As a seasoned Dog Trainer and Pet Sitter with Self Employed Services, I leveraged creative problem-solving and positive reinforcement training to enhance client satisfaction and canine well-being, achieving a notable improvement in behavioral issues. My expertise in animal handling and behavior modification, coupled with a commitment to fostering strong human-animal bonds, underscores my holistic approach to animal care.

Experienced with canine behavior modification and training methodologies. Utilizes positive reinforcement and consistent techniques to achieve desired results. Strong understanding of breed-specific behaviors and client communication.

I have been in animal rescue since 2005. I have done my own rescues along with helping Rescue Groups

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience

Work History

Dog Trainer

Self Employed Services
04.2018 - Current
  • Evaluated dogs'' progress during training sessions, adjusting techniques according to unique temperaments and learning styles.
  • Collaborated with fellow trainers to develop new strategies and approaches, resulting in improved client satisfaction rates.
  • Observed dogs in various settings to determine behavioral concerns and problems.
  • Implemented puppy socialization classes that promoted early development of essential social skills and appropriate interaction with other dogs and humans.
  • Watched dogs for triggers, signs of aggression and pack behaviors to formulate possible solutions.
  • Offered guidance on selecting suitable equipment such as leashes, collars, and harnesses that promote proper handling techniques while walking or training dogs.
  • Imparted valuable knowledge on nutrition and exercise routines to clients, contributing to overall canine health improvement.
  • Strengthened relationships between handlers and working dogs by facilitating bonding exercises designed to build trust and mutual understanding.
  • Reduced dog behavioral issues through consistent application of positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Consulted with owners to discuss behavioral concerns and determine final goals.
  • Instructed owners and dogs on basic obedience commands using different techniques to match dogs' drives for reward.
  • Conducted in-home visits to assess potential environmental factors contributing to dog behavioral issues, providing tailored recommendations for improvement.

Pet Sitter

Self Employed Services
01.2010 - Current
  • Prepared food and water following instructions from pet owners.
  • Gave animals proper attention to promote secure environment in owner's absence.
  • Exercised animals regularly with walks and rigorous play activities.
  • Maintained a clean and safe environment for pets, ensuring their comfort and well-being at all times.
  • Cleaned out and scooped litter trays and food and water bowls to provide clean environment for pets.
  • Communicated professionally with pet owners via phone, email, and text.
  • Ensured timely feedings, grooming sessions, and exercise routines for pets in accordance with owner instructions.
  • Conducted regular home visits to check on pets while owners were away, providing peace of mind through routine updates.
  • Gave medication to pets following guidelines from owners.

Horse Caretaker

Self Employed Services
01.1990 - Current
  • Ensured safety of horses by maintaining clean and secure stables at all times.
  • Developed strong bonds with horses through consistent care and attention, fostering trust between caretaker and animal.
  • Provided treatment for minor horse injuries.
  • Administered medications to horses as prescribed by veterinarians, resulting in improved health conditions.
  • Enhanced horse health by providing regular grooming, exercise, and proper nutrition.
  • Monitored horse behavior for signs of stress or illness, promptly addressing any concerns with veterinary professionals.
  • Managed inventory of feed, supplies, and equipment necessary for daily horse care operations.
  • Educated new staff members on proper horse handling techniques and safety protocols to ensure consistency in care across the team.
  • Contributed to overall facility maintenance by repairing fences, clearing debris from pastures, and keeping common areas clean and wellorganized.
  • Operated farm machinery and equipment necessary for the maintenance of pastures, paddocks, and arenas.
  • Prepared horses for specific competitions or tasks.
  • Collaborated with equine nutritionists to create customized feeding plans tailored to each horse''s specific needs and dietary requirements.
  • Trained young horses for basic riding skills, leading to successful integration into riding programs.
  • Mucked out stables, swept yard and stacked feed and bedding to foster clean and comfortable environment for animals.
  • Checked horses for wellness issues to report problems or treat minor ailments and injuries.

Education

Criminal Justice And Science

Erie Community College
Buffalo, NY

No Degree - Dog Training And Behavior

Erie One Boces

Skills

  • Behavior modification
  • Obedience training
  • Creative problem solving
  • Positive reinforcement training
  • Prong collar training
  • Canine nutrition awareness
  • Fear and anxiety management
  • Training program customization
  • Behavioral problem solving
  • Animal behaviors
  • Animal handling
  • Humane Animal Trapping
  • Multi Species care and training

Timeline

Dog Trainer

Self Employed Services
04.2018 - Current

Pet Sitter

Self Employed Services
01.2010 - Current

Horse Caretaker

Self Employed Services
01.1990 - Current

Criminal Justice And Science

Erie Community College

No Degree - Dog Training And Behavior

Erie One Boces
Michelle Michalek