Susan Krieg

After many years working with veterinarians, training facilities, grooming salons, and animal rescue organizations, in 2014 I opened Paws 4 Peace in Louisburg, North Carolina. My training techniques are derived from a holistic and compassionate perspective. I have found the use of positive approach training to be the most effective and creates long lasting results. Understanding the subtle nuances of canine communication is key to my success as a dog trainer. Teaching people how to connect and communicate with their canine family members; assisting Veterans and others with disabilities regain and enjoy their lives with the help of Service Dogs, are incredibly rewarding.Training opportunities for me, have run the gamut from basic manners and obedience to Puppy Basics, Conformation, Agility, Rally-O, Distraction-Proofing, Canine Musical Freestyle, Aggressive Behavior, Emotional Challenges, and finally to Therapy and Service Dog Training and Certification. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Education in Applied Behavioral Analysis in 2000 and 2001, respectively. In addition, I trained and mentored under Dr. Ian Dunbar, DVM, well-known for his positive animal training methodology. I also worked with Dr. Barbara Sherman, DVM of NC State University. I am a member of APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) and a certified Evaluator with the AKC (American Kennel Club) for Canine Good Citizen, and STAR Puppy Evaluation (Socialization, Training, Activity, & Responsible Owner).Career opportunities provided me with an interesting background. I worked my way through college grooming and training dogs. I owned a successful 12-year business in Ohio, taught Special Education, worked as lead trainer/behavioral consultant for several NC animal hospitals and rescue organizations. In 2010, I was honored to be invited by Dos Amigos to teach university-level classes to a group of veterinarians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and animal rescue groups at the University of Chile, Santiago, Chile. Dos Amigos is the only non-profit organization in Chile specializing in the training and placement of Therapy and Service dogs. I have continued my teaching focus by creating public awareness by speaking to groups and holding in-service sessions for veterinarians, schools, corporations, organizations, and law enforcement.Avid animal lovers, my husband Mike and I have shared their home with dogs, cats, parrots, and rabbits. We currently live in central North Carolina with three cats, Service Dogs Gavin (a Leonberger), Lotus (a Border Collie), Bodhi (a Labrador Retriever), Trexie (an Australian Shepherd), and Gabriel (a Cocker Spaniel); however, that number could change at any moment, as we are actively involved in animal fostering and rescue. We enjoy the beach, working with our dogs, hiking, and watching football, especially when The Ohio State Buckeyes are winning!