The Heart Behind Dogs Best Coach™
This space was built from lived experience, study, and deep respect for the human–dog bond.
If you’re wondering who’s guiding you here — you’re in the right place.
About Susan & Izzy
When life unraveled and Izzy arrived, nothing went the way I expected. What began as exhaustion and doubt became the deepest education of my life. Our journey from survival to thriving shaped everything I teach today.
Coaching Philosophy
You didn’t get the dog you expected — and that’s not a training problem, it’s a relationship in crisis. My work blends trauma-informed dog guidance with steady support for the human walking beside them, because real healing happens when we address both ends of the leash.
Where My Approach Comes From
My approach didn’t come from one place — it’s been shaped by the trainers, healers, and thinkers I’ve sought out over the years, on both the dog-training side and the human side of this work. Here’s who’s influenced how I show up for you and your dog.
Stories From the Journey
Real moments from real rescue relationships — including my own with Izzy. Some of the hardest, most honest parts of this work, in audio form.
Contact & Connect
Every rescue journey is different. If you’d like to share where you are or explore working together, I’d love to hear from you. Every story matters. Every step forward counts.