Sonja Sieling
Omaha,NE
Summary
Compassionate and knowledgeable Lead Dog Trainer with a focus on behavioral modification and effective communication. Committed to enhancing animal welfare standards and optimizing training outcomes through innovative solutions.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Dog Trainer
United Paws Dog Training
Omaha, Nebraska
01.2020 - Current
- Trained dogs using positive reinforcement techniques and customized training plans.
- Evaluated individual needs of dogs to provide tailored training and behavior modification instruction.
- Evaluated behavioral issues and developed tailored solutions for individual clients.
- Trained service dogs to assist individuals with disabilities and specific needs.
- Conducted one-on-one training sessions to address specific behavioral issues.
- Collaborated with pet owners to set realistic training goals and expectations.
- Discussed appropriate canine socialization methods with pet owners and explained proper use of sit, stay and down commands.
- Displayed passion for animal welfare and demonstrated humane techniques with progressive training models.
- Used food and toy rewards, humane training tools, and verbal and leash corrections to teach dogs behaviors.
- Demonstrated various methods of animal control, such as voice commands, hand signals, clickers, to ensure safety during training sessions.
- Developed relationships with clients to build trust and rapport while providing guidance during training sessions.
- Developed long-term relationships with clients and bonded with animals through regular contact.
- Observed dog behaviors in order to identify any problems or challenges that may need addressing during future training.
- Discussed pricing options with potential customers and provided information about available services.
- Responded promptly to customer inquiries via phone or email regarding upcoming lessons or other related topics.
- Provided daily care for pets while their owners were away, ensuring their well-being and comfort.
Animal Care Supervisor
Cottonwood Pet Resort
Omaha, NE
07.2018 - 03.2021
- Supervised animal care staff to ensure proper animal welfare standards.
- Provided oversight of animal care staff to ensure adherence to quality standards and regulations.
- Coordinated daily feeding and grooming schedules for diverse animal species.
- Administered medications prescribed by veterinarians and monitored treatment progress.
- Provided guidance and instruction to staff members on proper handling techniques of animals.
- Ensured compliance with safety regulations and best practices in animal handling.
- Monitored daily operations of animal housing facilities, including maintenance, sanitation and security.
- Developed and enforced animal care policies, procedures and safety protocols.
Animal Care Supervisor
Clearview Pet Care
Omaha, Nebraska
09.2017 - 07.2018
- Supervised animal care staff to ensure proper animal welfare standards.
- Led animal care team in providing daily health checks for companion animals.
- Monitored daily operations of animal housing facilities, including maintenance, sanitation and security.
- Implemented safety protocols to maintain a clean and secure environment for pets and staff.
- Conducted routine inspections of all animal enclosures for cleanliness, safety, health and comfort.
- Coordinated daily feeding and grooming schedules for diverse animal species.
- Provided oversight of animal care staff to ensure adherence to quality standards and regulations.
- Mentored new team members, enhancing their skills in animal care and customer service.
- Supervised and trained staff on service techniques, boosting overall customer satisfaction.
- Provided guidance and instruction to staff members on proper handling techniques of animals.
Animal Shelter
Nebraska Humane Society
Omaha, NE
07.2008 - 09.2017
- Delivered daily care for various animal species in a secure environment.
- Maintained cleanliness of animal habitats and feeding areas to ensure health and safety of residents.
- Monitored animal health and reported concerns to veterinary staff to facilitate prompt care.
- Educated visitors on animal behavior and conservation initiatives to promote awareness and responsible stewardship.
- Implemented enrichment activities to promote animal well-being and engagement regularly.
- Cleaned animal habitats using appropriate cleaning materials. and maintains animal living areas, including cages and tanks, using appropriate cleaning materials.
- Feeds animals according to instructions from veterinarians or animal care supervisors.
- Taught animals sit, stay and other basic commands.
- Enforced local animal control laws and regulations for community safety.
- Rescued injured or abandoned animals from public spaces and shelters.
- Conducted investigations of animal cruelty complaints to ensure compliance.
- Educated the public on responsible pet ownership and local ordinances.
- Managed animal capture and transport using humane techniques and equipment.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls regarding dangerous or stray animals.
- Issued citations for violations of municipal ordinances relating to animal control.
- Responded to animal control related calls and complaints from the public.
- Assisted in the capture of stray animals using humane trapping techniques.
- Attended court hearings regarding alleged violations of animal control laws.
- Investigated reports of animal abuse and issued citations and warnings.
- Maintained detailed reports on captured animals, including species, breed, color, sex and age.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Veterinary Technician
Vatterott College
Omaha, NESkills
- Positive reinforcement training
- Service dog training
- Therapy dog preparation
- Basic obedience commands
- Advanced obedience training
- Canine behavior evaluation
- Behavioral modification
- Behavior modification techniques
- Fear and anxiety management
- House training expertise
- Animal handling
- Animal welfare standards
- Animal welfare laws
- Animal cruelty investigation
- Animal rescue
- Animal captures
- Citations and warnings
- Customer relationship management
- Staff supervision
- Problem solving
- Animal behavior
Timeline
Lead Dog Trainer
United Paws Dog Training
01.2020 - Current
Animal Care Supervisor
Cottonwood Pet Resort
07.2018 - 03.2021
Animal Care Supervisor
Clearview Pet Care
09.2017 - 07.2018
Animal Shelter
Nebraska Humane Society
07.2008 - 09.2017
Some College (No Degree) - Veterinary Technician
Vatterott College