About Leigh

Text Box: A lawyer by trade, I have taken the techniques, education, and skills I acquired as an attorney and have applied them to become a successful dog trainer.

Text Box: I have graduated from several intensive training courses on dog training, including the Dogs Of Course 2007 Advanced Instructors' Training Course (ITC) taught by Pia Silvani, CPDT, and Carolyn Barney, CPDT; Dogs Of Course 2006 Instructors' Training Course (ITC) taught by Sue Sternberg, Pia, and Carolyn; the RVAA shelter internship taught by Sue with Jane Kopelman; and, the Peaceable Paws Level 2 Advanced instructors training course, taught by Pat Miller, CPDT. In September, 2006 I attended the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) annual conference where I participated in four days of lectures regarding dog training and behavior related subjects taught by the world’s leaders in those fields. In addition, I have attended various seminars on dog training, aggression, and behavior. I also apprenticed with a New York City dog trainer (David Muriello, Head Trainer at Biscuits & Bath) as well as volunteered with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in New York.

Text Box: In 2005, I reduced my hours of legal practice, which allowed me time to devote to my new favorite field of study, dog training. I began teaching group classes at a reputable national pet products retail chain store, where I further honed my teaching and training skills. I am also privately available for obedience lessons plus consultations on behavioral matters and behavior modification techniques. I have read most of the books recommended by APDT and the Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers (the panel that certifies trainers and awards the title of Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) to qualified trainers). I have also read other training and behavior books not on that list and viewed many hours of video tapes regarding training, behavior, and dog body language. I intend to take the CPDT exam in 2007.

In my spare time I am training my own pound puppy, a spayed female Shepherd mix named “Miss Alabama” (a/k/a "Allie"). She is a hilarious character and a pleasure as a companion.