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Pawsitive Steps |
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"Helping Best Friends Build Unique Relationships!" |
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Dog Training |
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Who We Are |
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Gayle Ballinger Rescuing two 10-day old kittens |
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I remember going to the dog pound with my Dad when I was in second grade to adopt my very first puppy, a yellow Lab, whom I named Sam, and my life has been filled with dogs ever since...Missy, Butter, Yukon, Brandy, Skippy, George, Amber… plus dozens of clients’ and friends’ dogs, not to mention fosters, rescues and shelter animals I have had the honor of working with, knowing and loving. They are all special in their own way and each teach me something new.
I began dog training as a student when Yukon and I came together. That was over 20 years ago. Back in those days, they used some pretty harsh methods. I remember one instructor telling me to smack my dog under his chin for play-mouthing me. It was horrifying! I left in tears! I was so frustrated, confused and hurt, trying to figure out how to control a dog that outweighed me by 20 pounds but that I loved dearly… and was told to abuse? No way. It was a terrible time. Thankfully, a friend had gotten a puppy near the same time and we found a different class together. In the mid 90’s I was offered an apprenticeship with one of Seattle’s largest dog training schools and accepted with great excitement. On my 30th birthday, I taught my very first official class—what a thrill! What I have learned in the decade since that class has been amazing. I believe training can and should be done without pain or fear. I’ve followed my heart—along with doing what makes sense—what dogs and other animals have taught me that works! Our classes are based on positive motivation, using techniques proven to work. I chose the name Pawsitive Steps in 1996 because I want to help people move the relationship they have with their dogs in the right direction. “If you aren’t going in the right direction, you’re either moving backwards or standing still.” As a cancer survivor, I believe you need to keep a positive outlook, believe in your heart and pursue your dreams. I also believe that dogs are God’s gift to us to remind us of His unconditional love. They are truly amazing creatures!
May you always have great health, happiness and the warmth and love of a dog at your side! Blessings, Gayle
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An active boater, Gayle is currently serving as the Vice Commodore for the Yacht Dogs Yacht Club, where she coordinates activities such as FUNdraiser Dog Washes for Pasado’s Safe Haven and the Boat Show Dog Trials. She enjoys volunteering at Pasado’s Safe Haven where she works with the dogs of AARFF and assists in the office. She was recently honored as the Pasado’s Volunteer of the Week. Currently volunteering with Evergreen Golden Retriever Rescue, where she works as the Behavior Coordinator for the group her family has learned the special joys of fostering dogs in their home. Recently, they became “Foster Home Failures” after fostering Boomer, a 2 year old Golden who stole their hearts and they decided to adopt. Boomer, while not used to living indoors, is readily adjusting, learning quickly and is enjoying his new digs. Also active in the Evergreen Golden Retriever Club, Gayle is looking forward to the National Golden Retriever Specialty in September 2007 where Boomer will participate in the Parade of Rescue Goldens. Gayle attended the Bob Bailey Legacy Survey Operant Conditioning Workshop where she learned a lot and really enjoyed training chickens! |
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Pawsitive Steps Dog Training serves the Greater Seattle Area, the Eastside, King and Snohomish Counties. Thank you for visiting www.PawsitiveStepsSeattle.com |
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Chicken Training was so much fun! |