The Team:
Sparky Smith is a devoted professional in the field of emotional and psychologic well-being of Dogs. She studies evidence-based articles to remain current on leading science and its implications to dog care. She is well-regarded for quickly recognizing the way your Dog comprehends his/her world through body-language, micro-expressions and vocalization. Sparky has been a long-time people coach, supporting people through difficult times in their lives, and helping them shift their mindset for a happier and more productive outlook. Sparky is your number one resource for helping you with your dog and answering questions about why your pet does what it does.
Sparky is educated through the International School for Canine Psychology (theISCP.com). She has been assessed by the International Association for Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC) and certified as a full member Dog Behaviour Consultant. She is also recognized by the Pet Professional Guild (www.petprofessionalguild.com) as a Force-Free Professional Dog Trainer. She is also the Associate Director for the ISCP-Canada, overseeing practical workshops for students studying at the school. Sparky is a member of the Complementary Medical Association as a Practitioner in Canine Psychology. She earned a certificate from Duke University for Canine Dog Behaviour and Emotion and specializes in Cognitive Assessments. Her experience is also heavily influenced from a 30-year career and studies in Organizational Change, Neuroscience & Systems Thinking. She is also education through the University of San Diego receiving a Masters Level on Systems Thinking through the University of San Diego and the Haines Centre of Strategic Management. Sparky attends many webinars to stay current, including "Social Pain in Dogs" Presented by Dr. Frank McMillan. Sparky is an author of many workshops for dog's and their people, including "Deepening the Bond" (co-authored with her husband) and "Choosing Better Behaviour". 
Sunshine Smith - Specially trained to read and engage with all dogs of all sizes and breeds to help them overcome communication challenges, Sunshine is a special dog. She is Sparky & Martin's assistant and an essential and joyful member of the team.
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Rosemary Holtz, CPDT-KA, is a professionally accredited dog trainer and provides additional expertise to our behaviour services in Toronto and across Canada. Rosemary is our Behaviour Tech supporting complex behaviour cases.
The complementary nature of Rosemary and Sparky has been commented upon by clients who enjoy the fact that here in Muskoka they are serviced by the best of dog professionals in Canada. Rosemary provides clients with hands-on techniques and methods, coaching them to achieve the goals of the behaviour program, while Sparky focuses on the interrelationship, environment and structures needed to make the changes stick for life. 
Hannah Sotropa - We are delighted to announce our newest addition to our team in Toronto, Hannah Sotropa. Hannah will be helping clients in a new position, Dog Behaviour Program Manager. She assists clients as they progress in our programs, ensuring they have everything they need, and answering all questions. Hannah works in a professional capacity with the Toronto Humane Society, and is equally talented in compassionate care of dogs and their humans - a hallmark of our services. You can see her regularly on CityTV showcasing the many pets up for adoption by the Toronto Humane Society.
Martin Smith also works side-by-side with Sparky and has worked for over 15 years with all varieties of dogs and temperament, delivering insights and training. Martin is the co-author of "Deepening the Bond," a highly popular workshop for dogs and their people.
He specializes in building trust with your dog, creating a mind which is open to new ways of thinking. Martin is highly creative, meaning he develops activity strategies tailored to your pet. Martin is also a life-long student of Dog Obedience and Training and studies at the International School for Canine Psychology & Behaviour. |
A retreat like no otherWe have a stunning full dog facility in Muskoka, Ontario, where beauty of the country and love for dogs comes into perfect balance.
If you think a private week-long intensive dog retreat is for you, talk to Sparky. Check out our Gallery 
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