Meet Coach Melissa “Parker”

Owner and Trainer

FEATURED ON KAREN PRYOR ACADEMY
Unlike the saying “You can’t teach an old dogs new tricks.”, Wrigley (one of Parker’s current dogs), proves that Older Dogs Can Learn New Tricks in this featured blog.

MY STORY
I was your typical dog owner, raising a well-behaved puppy, Riley, who lived a happy 16 years by my side as my best friend. During his life, our family expanded to include other siblings one being Chance, a very reactive rescue. At first, we found him to be difficult to manage and anxious around people and dogs. We tried many training approaches and trainers with little success.

We eventually found positive reinforcement training. I was fascinated with Chance’s display of excitement when seeing the treat pouch. He became fully engaged, willing to participate, and began problem-solving on his own. The result of this training method increased our bond and improved his behavior.

INSPIRATION
I was inspired to learn more and share the method with others. I decided to enroll in the Karen Pryor Academy’s Dog Trainer Professional Course. Through this distinguished certification program, I have learned the proven positive reinforcement training method and am a Certified Training Partner.

EXPERIENCE AND VALUES
As a former NCAA Division 1 athlete and coach, I value my on-the-court team connections and helping make a positive impact in people’s lives. Through Coachable Canines, I am able to combine my two passions of coaching and dogs. I am thrilled to be able to share my knowledge and assist in the growth of the relationship with your dog.


CERTIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION
Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner
Fear Free Certified Professional
Dog Trainer Foundations
Puppy Start Right for Instructors
TAGTeach Foundations
ClickerExpo 2021
ClickerExpo Live 2023
Clicker Expo LIve 2024

University of Illinois Champaign, Urbana
BS - Sport Management
Florida State University
MS - Sport Administration


Karen Pryor Academy - Positive Reinforcement Dog Training