Alison Schaefer

Alison Schaefer CPDT-KA, CSCC, ABCDT, is the owner of Progress 4 Paws, located in Largo, FL. She's a professional dog trainer certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and Animal Behavior College (ABC). She's a certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCC) through North Carolina State University. Alison grew up in Buffalo, NY, discovering her love for dogs while working at a dog daycare and boarding facility. She's worked with all different breeds and temperaments. She understands canine body language and how dogs communicate. Alison earned her bachelor's degree in integrative biology at The SUNY College at Buffalo and has worked as a Dog Trainer Mentor for Animal Behavior College. Alison is an AKC Canine Good Citizen & Trick Dog Evaluator, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), and PET CPR & First Aid Certified. Alison lives with her wife, 3 miniature long haired dachshunds Hunter, Hayden, and Hamilton and shepherd mix Charlie. She participates in a variety of dog sports and activities with her dogs. Including Scent Work, Barn Hunt, Rally obedience, agility, canine fitness, tricks, and Fast CAT. Her goal is to bridge the gap of communication between people and their dogs and facilitate a positive and lasting relationship using the most effective reward-based training solutions. She is an advocate for rescue dogs and responsible breeders (https://marketplace.akc.org/). Encouraging clients to write down why they want a dog and do breed/lifestyle research before deciding on one. Alison attends classes and seminars to continue her education on the most up to date modern science-based training methods.