Furry Tail Training: For Dogs and Cats is a basic obedience training program that utilizes positive reinforcement techniques. This approach creates a dog whose primary motivation is earning rewards, rather than avoiding punishment. The goal is to teach you to see your dog as an individual and use whatever your dog loves—treats, toys, praise, or play—to reinforce desired behaviors. It’s a fun, effective way to motivate both you and your dog without causing unnecessary stress or frustration. At Furry Tail Training, we believe training should strengthen the bond between you and your pet while respecting their emotional well-being.

 

Certifications: BA

 

Designations: ABCDT

 

Job Title: Owner/Trainer

 

Training Philosophy: Positive Reinforcement

 

Locations Served: Lake Elsinore, CA and surrounding areas

 

Languages: English

 

Hello, my name is Holly. I'm a professional animal trainer with a lifelong passion for animal behavior, beginning my hands-on experience at age 17 and continuing ever since through education, training, and rescue work. I bring extensive experience with both domestic and exotic species, having started in pet care at a local pet store in Los Angeles. I also volunteered as a Husbandry Assistant at the Aquarium of the Pacific and as a Keeper Assistant at the Los Angeles Zoo. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a focus on Learning Theory from San Diego State University. During that time, I gained hands-on experience in various kennel environments—including grooming, daycare, and general care for dogs and cats—and spent a summer as a camp intern at Birch Aquarium, educating children about ocean life. I also volunteered with the San Diego Humane Society’s Pet Therapy program and later worked in the Animal Care Department at SeaWorld San Diego, where I met my husband, Mark. After moving to Wildomar in 2013, I earned my Dog Trainer Certification through Animal Behavior College and completed my externship at Animal Friends of the Valleys, helping shelter dogs become more adoptable using positive reinforcement-based training. I continued my education with additional certifications through ABC, including Pet Sitting and Dog Walking, Feline Management and Training, Cat Training, and The Art of Selling and Teaching Private Lessons. I am certified in Pet First Aid and CPR and am also a certified instructor through PetTech. I’m proud to be a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). I currently offer private training for both dogs and cats, as well as Pet First Aid & CPR classes. At home, I live with our 4-year-old Golden Retriever, Raya, and our 11-year-old cat, Lilo—both of whom continue to teach and inspire me. I previously fostered for Southern California Golden Retriever Rescue and volunteered at Animal Friends of the Valleys. I use science-based, positive reinforcement methods that prioritize the emotional well-being of both pets and their people. Whether you're starting fresh with a new puppy or looking to fine-tune behavior in an adult dog or cat, I’m here to help you build a deeper, lasting connection with your pet.