Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakinah Brzezinski
Hi Shakinah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Wunder was the name of my service dog who developed reactivity, which led me to transition from the world of horse training to dog training. He passed away just before I launched my own business, so I named it in his honor. In German, “Wunder” means “miracle” and while there is no magic wand in dog training, I love the positive and hopeful message behind it.
At the beginning of my dog training career I was the team lead at Zoom Room Culver City. In that position I found such satisfaction and joy in helping owners understand their dogs, whether they were a brand new puppy owner, going through our agility program, or in need of private training for reactivity!
Now, at Wunderdog Training I am able to help people and dogs one on one with their specific issues and needs, most often meeting clients at their homes. I utilize a variety of techniques as every dog is different and I enjoy employing creative methods to help every dog thrive!
I specialize in behavior modification for shy and reactive dogs, utilizing only Positive Reinforcement methods. I am constantly learning from and following the latest studies from the leading behaviorists and scientists in the field. Currently working towards being certified by the IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants).
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have certainly been plenty of bumps in the road, but I think the largest one was my own disability. I have a chronic illness that results in the intermittent use of a wheelchair. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to be seen as competent in this field when I am not always able bodied. However, what I have found is that the shy dogs often feel more comfortable when I am in a wheelchair (at a lower, less intimidating level) and for other dogs we get to use it as a desensitization opportunity that is incredibly helpful for their overall wellbeing in society.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Wunder Dog Training?
I am a positive reinforcement dog trainer, specializing in behavior modification for reactive and shy dog. I have a particular passion for helping rescue dogs and their families as I know from personal experience how tough that road can be. My main goal is to help build a relationship and effective communication between owner and dog.
What sets me apart is how I support my clients through their program. They always (even after program ends) have access to free virtual support.
I’m most proud of the personal tailoring of each program. Every dog and human team are unique, it’s important that their training plan is too! I create a written training plan for each client, as well as their training goals so they can physically cross off each goal as we accomplish it!
My goal is for my clients to no longer need me! As my reactivity clients progress I offer stepping stones, they often move from private sessions to my Spicy Dog’s Club to living happy lives!
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I started out working with horses in dressage, which is where I learned the power of body language. With a horse you are unable to pick them up the way you would a chihuahua, but there are alot of commonalities in how they read our body language!
Horses and Dogs do not communicate verbally, they communicate through body language. There is an incredible awareness and connection that comes from being able to take a horse from a gallop to walk by changing your own gate, breath, and tone of voice.
There is a similar phenomenon that happens when you take a deep breath and help a dog disengage from a trigger!
Pricing:
- Virtual Consultation – FREE
- Single Training Session – $125
- Intro Package (3 sessions) – $330
- Progress Package (5 sessions) – $525
- Commitment Package (8 sessions) – $792
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wunderdogtraining
