Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Rachel Butler

Summary

Experienced animal care and training professional with 5+ years at PetSmart, specializing in dog training, team leadership, and multi-site operations. Currently serving as District Area Dog Trainer for DC/Northern VA, overseeing trainer development, class performance, and customer engagement across multiple locations. Recognized for top regional training sales in 2024 and maintaining 97% customer satisfaction. Certified in human and animal CPR/first aid, with recent phlebotomy certification. Committed to exceptional care, client relationships, and exceeding company expectations.

Overview

12
12
years of professional experience

Work History

District Area Dog Trainer

PetSmart
01.2023 - Current
  • Led dog training operations across multiple PetSmart locations within the Washington, DC/Northern VA district.
  • Coached, mentored, and developed in-store dog trainers to exceed performance standards and support their professional growth.
  • Conducted regular store visits to observe classes, deliver feedback, and ensure curriculum compliance, and safety protocols were followed.
  • Partnered with store and district leadership to drive revenue growth through marketing initiatives, community outreach, and optimized class scheduling.
  • Played a key role in hiring, onboarding, and certifying new dog trainers through hands-on accreditation.
  • Analyzed performance metrics to identify trends, improve class attendance, and boost customer satisfaction.
  • Monitored class schedules, attendance, and trainer productivity across stores.
  • Collaborated with store and district leaders to increase awareness and promote training services.
  • Partnered with local rescue groups to host monthly ‘Meet the Trainer' events during adoption drives, strengthening community outreach, supporting rescue initiatives, and generating new client leads.
  • Top training sales performer in PetSmart stores across the DC district and Eastern region in 2024.

PetsHotel Lead Associate

PetSmart
01.2021 - Current
  • Supervised daily operations of the PetsHotel, including guest check-ins/outs, feedings, playtimes, and cleaning routines.
  • Provided leadership and training to all positions in the PetsHotel.
  • Delivered a high level of guest service to pet parents, handling reservations, and facilitating check-ins/out processes.
  • Responsible for the health and safety of the pets in the PetsHotel.
  • Maintained accurate records for feeding schedules, medications, and special pet care instructions.
  • Partnered with store and PetsHotel managers to optimize staffing, resolve customer issues, and support business growth.
  • Assisted in planning and executing special events and promotions to drive customer engagement and occupancy rates.

Professional Dog Trainer

PetSmart
01.2019 - 01.2023
  • Provided a comprehensive range of training services, including group classes (Puppy, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced), specialty classes (Therapy Training, Brain Games, Trick Training, and Stress Less), educational workshops and seminars (StartSmart and Potty Training), customized one-on-one sessions tailored to individual clients and their pets' needs, and behavioral assessments.
  • Developed and implemented individualized training plans.
  • Assessed and tracked the progress of both dogs and their owners, adjusting training methods as needed.
  • Consistently achieved sales targets by effectively promoting and enrolling clients in a variety of training programs.
  • Ensured compliance with PetSmart's training protocols by proactively scheduling and promoting classes up to three months in advance, optimizing enrollment, and operational efficiency.
  • Satisfactory rate of 97%.
  • Rollover rate of 86%.


Dining Host

Main Event
02.2016 - 12.2016
  • Monitored restaurant activity to determine seating and dining flow.
  • Managed table assignments and maintained accurate, up-to-date wait lists to ensure smooth front-of-house operations.
  • Maintained clear and accurate communication with guests, servers, and management to ensure seamless service.

Waitress/Carhop

Sonic
01.2013 - 01.2015
  • Responsible for serving and delivering food and drinks safely and efficiently.
  • Ensured all restaurant menu items met operational standards.
  • Handled money and payments quickly and efficiently.
  • Provided and assisted with menu navigation, requests, and customizations.

Education

NHCO CPT Certification -

Phlebotomy Training Specialists
Alexandria, VA
01.2023

Basic Life Saving Support CPR and AED Infant/Child/Adult -

American Heart Association
Washington, DC
01.2023

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid -

American Red Cross
01.2021

No Degree -

Georgia Gwinnett College
Lawrenceville, GA

High School Diploma -

Riverwood International Charter High School
Sandy Springs, GA
01.2011

Skills

  • Accuracy and attention to detail
  • Effective communication
  • Positive attitude and willingness to assist others
  • Adaptability in fast-paced, changing environments
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Dependability and reliability
  • Multitasking and time management
  • Organizational skills with ability to prioritize tasks
  • Eagerness to learn and grow professionally

Timeline

District Area Dog Trainer

PetSmart
01.2023 - Current

PetsHotel Lead Associate

PetSmart
01.2021 - Current

Professional Dog Trainer

PetSmart
01.2019 - 01.2023

Dining Host

Main Event
02.2016 - 12.2016

Waitress/Carhop

Sonic
01.2013 - 01.2015

NHCO CPT Certification -

Phlebotomy Training Specialists

Basic Life Saving Support CPR and AED Infant/Child/Adult -

American Heart Association

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid -

American Red Cross

No Degree -

Georgia Gwinnett College

High School Diploma -

Riverwood International Charter High School

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