Gen’s experience with dog training began when she was just 12 years old, volunteering at the Brampton Animal Shelter. Once she turned 13, she was hired on as a Kennel Attendant, spending her breaks, lunches and after hours in the kennels of the dogs, she could see needed her the most. Since then, the majority of Gen’s life has been dedicated to learning everything she could about animal behaviour, and improving the lives of all animals around her. Prior to running, and co-owning Pawsitive Plus Dog Training and Consulting Service Ltd., Gen developed, organized, and trained staff and volunteers for the Canine Behaviour Program at the Oakville and Milton Humane Society. Gen strongly believes that working with animals to modify behaviour requires an education and a full understanding of animal behaviour. As a result, she has achieved a zoology degree at the University of Guelph focussing on animal behaviour. Since completing her degree, she has kept current with all new and upcoming training methods by being both an attendee and speaker at behaviour seminars and conferences. Gen has completed several Animal Behaviour and Welfare graduate courses at the University of Guelph and has even spent time working with wolves at Wolf Park Indiana. Her expertise in improving shelter living and environment enrichment for shelter dogs lead her to become a speaker at the CAPPDT conference in 2011. While Gen has achieved many certificates in the area of animal behaviour, she is most proud and excited about her achievement as a Certified Behaviour Adjustment Instructor (CBATI) in November 2013. She is the first in the GTA (and perhaps Ontario) to design a full program specifically developed to rehabilitate dogs with fear and frustration-aggression using Grisha Stewart’s concept of BAT; this is Pawsitive Plus’ “Snappy to Happy” program. ​ Gen currently shares her life with her husband, 2 human baby girls, 2 cats, and her 2 dogs Pepper & Dharma that you may see helping out at her training facility!

Jen has always had a connection with animals, specifically dogs. She loves to explore the outdoors and nature as well. She started working on a farm taking care of horses, and loved it but realized her passion was actually dogs. She has worked in many pet stores, been a counsellor at a horse back riding camps, and even worked at the Oakville and Milton Humane society. Jen comes from a child care background but completed her minor in university in Critical Animal studies which covers the relationships between animals and humans. After graduating from university, Jen went to South Africa for a month to volunteer at an animal sanctuary, where she got to work with lions, tigers and more! She is currently working as an apprentice dog trainer at Pawsitive Plus. Jen has a 14 year old Shih-poo named Daisy, and two horses named Britt and Holly. She came into contact with our Head Trainer Gen, and after a few meetings knew that she wanted to be part of the team. She is now working towards becoming a certified dog trainer. Jen is excited to help owners build on both their knowledge as well as relationships with their four legged friends!

Lauren spends most of her time running our Cadets program! She absolutely loves working with dogs of all ages and above all loves to help pet parents build a strong connection with their dog. When she’s not at work, Lauren loves to spend her time hiking and exploring nature. Her first connections with dogs started by working at a grooming salon run by a family member. She began by bathing and drying the dogs. She loved being able to make the dog more comfortable and happier. Lauren volunteered at Brampton Animal Shelters for years, walking and playing with the animals in her spare time. Lauren has experience working at a pet store, gaining more knowledge about all kinds of animals. She has three Sphinx cats at home, Kevin, Dwayne, and Pikey! Lauren loves to advocate for animal rights. She completed her apprenticeship at Pawsitive Plus and is working towards her CPDT. She loves working at Pawsitive Plus!!

Following 20+ year career in the corporate world, Michele decided to pursue her life long passion of working with animals. Michele’s research led her to the renowned Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behaviour where she earned her certification as a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP). The Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program has allowed Michele to demonstrate a high level of technical knowledge and hands-on skill both training dogs and coaching people. Michele is passionate about teaching people how to deepen their relationship and effectively communicate with their dogs by using positive training methods. She loves watching pet parents and dogs have their “ah-ha” moment when their faces light up as they hit success points and learn how fun training can be. Marley is Michele’s 12 year old Portuguese Water Dog who was her training partner at KPA. Marley is a wonderful example of what your dog can achieve and learn at any age with positive reinforcement training.