Are You an Aspiring Dog Trainer?

If you have ever dreamed of launching a career with animals, turning your passion into a business, or simply mastering the science of dog behavior, I strongly encourage you to check out the CATCH Canine Trainers Academy program. And if you study through their mentorship track, you might just find me by your side, cheering you on and guiding your journey.

If you’ve been following Ask Dr. Caryn for a while, you know that my core passion is for understanding behavior, deepening the bond between humans and animals, and leaning heavily into science-based, positive reinforcement training methods.

Today, I am absolutely thrilled to share a major new milestone in that journey: I have officially stepped into the role of Mentor Trainer for the CATCH Canine Trainers Academy!

What is the CATCH Canine Mentorship Program?

For those who might not be familiar, CATCH Canine Trainers Academy is a top-tier, state-approved school dedicated to teaching aspiring dog trainers the art and science of professional dog training. Their curriculum is highly respected, comprehensive, and approved by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) for continuing education. What makes CATCH truly unique is its hybrid approach: students dive deep into self-study and theory, but they don't do it alone. They are paired with a professional Mentor Trainer to guide them through the critical hands-on phases of their education. That’s where I come in!

My Role: Shaping the Future of Dog Training

As an Official Mentor Trainer, I will be working one-on-one with students right here in our community as they progress through their certification phases. I’ll be guiding, evaluating, and coaching them through vital practical skills, including:

• Basic Skills Externship: Masterfully teaching fundamental cues and behaviors.

• Instructional Teaching Skills: Learning how to effectively coach human clients (because a huge part of dog training is actually people training!).

• Behavior & Training Services: Diving into complex behavioral problem-solving and class structuring.

"True education isn't just about passing down facts; it's about fostering curiosity, honing practical skills, and building the confidence to make a real-world impact. I cannot wait to help these students turn their passion for dogs into professional excellence."

Why This Matters to Me (and You!)

At Ask Dr. Caryn, we believe that when we know better, we train better. By mentoring upcoming trainers, I get to help ensure that the future of the dog training industry is led by professionals who are skilled, empathetic, and dedicated to humane, effective, science-based methods.

Don't worry—my dedication to answering your burning behavior questions in person, by phone, on WWER 88.1, and here on the blog isn't changing! If anything, working alongside fresh, enthusiastic minds is only going to bring more insights, stories, and training tips to our community.

Stay tuned to the blog for updates and as always, keep training with love and science!

About Caryn Self Sullivan: Dr. Caryn is an animal behaviorist and trainer serving the Greater Fredericksburg & Northern Neck areas of Virginia since 2010. She owns Beach Paws Boutique, A Place for Pets & their People, at 116 Hawthorn Street in Downtown Colonial Beach VA. She holds a B.S. in Marine Science from Coastal Carolina University (1997), and a Ph.D. in Animal Behavior from Texas A&M (2008). Her certifications and memberships include IAABC, KPA CTP, CCPDT, APDT, AKC CGC, PPG, AVSAB, CSAT, FPPE, and OS (Operation Socialization).