Service Dog Training

Caryn came TO the world of Dog Training & Behavior Modification in 2010 FROM the world of Wildlife Conservation & Behavior with a strong background in ethology. She studied free-ranging populations of manatees and dolphins in Belize, manatees in Ghana, dolphins and sea turtles in South Carolina and Florida, and more. Caryn mentored dozens of graduate students at universities around the world. She joined the KPA CTP team in 2011 and now specializes in Private, Personalized Training and Behavior Modification for Dogs & their People. Dr. Caryn works with pet dogs, companion dogs, therapy dogs, and service dogs from puppy-hood to old age. Her focus is on building lifelong bonds between dogs and their people based on good communication and trust. Her training programs include Obedience & Good Manners, Behavior Modification for Ordinary & Serious Problems (including court ordered), Basic Puppy Socialization & Training, Training for Service/Therapy/Emotional Support Dogs, Separation Anxiety Training, and Calming your Reactive Dog Training. Every program is personalized to meet the needs of both dog and owner. Every dog is different and every household is different. Caryn provides personalized training based on the needs of YOUR dog and YOUR household. Whether you have a new puppy, a juvenile delinquent, or an older dog, Caryn can help you reach your goals and have fun doing it! Her virtual service is available in English around the world. Her in-person service area includes a 30 mile radius around her office which is located in Colonial Beach VA, including Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, King George, and Westmoreland Counties. Extended service is available with a travel fee. In addition to her Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) certification, Caryn Self-Sullivan has a PhD in Animal Behavior, and is a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), a Certified Behavior Consultant (IAABC-C), a Certified Operation Socialization Puppy Trainer (OSCT), a K9 to 5 Therapy Dog Trainer/Evaluator, and an AKC CGC Trainer/Evaluator. She is also a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers Professional Member (APDT), the Pet Professional Guild (PPG), a Puppy Raiser for Service Dogs of Virginia, a Doggone Safe Be A Tree Licensed Presenter, a Certified TAGteacher, and a member of the American Veterinary Society for Animal Behavior (AVSAB). Caryn works with pet owners, parents, children, shelter staff and volunteers, veterinary staff, groomers, trainers, coaches, camp counselors, teachers, and business managers - anyone who needs or wants to train specific skills, to modify behaviors, and to build long-term trusting relationships using fun and aversive-free methods.