I'm an animal professional who believes in teaching animal and their humans. Unlike some trainers who say they "hate people," I embrace working with pet owners, recognizing that each human-dog team has unique needs and circumstances. As a dog trainer, my role is helping humans and their canine companions live happily together. Every person and dog is unique, and I enjoy tailoring solutions that fit their needs, lifestyles, and goals.

I’ve been fortunate to learn directly from pioneers like Terry Ryan, Risë VanFleet, and Valli Parthasarathy, who instilled in me a science-based, compassionate approach to training. I’ve never used choke chains, shock collars, or dominance-based techniques. Instead, I teach positive, ethical, reinforcement—replacing fear and force with communication, consent, and FUN.

Terminology matters: I use “cue” instead of “command” to emphasize partnership over control. Clear, respectful communication is key to lasting relationships—human and animal alike. My training is built on trust, play, and meeting dogs where they are, not forcing them into rigid expectations.

My journey began with therapy dog training, leading me to work in schools, hospitals, prisons, and beyond with my Therapy Dog, Schatzi. Achieving titles like the CGCs, Trick Dog, and Fit Dog I’ve experienced firsthand how training strengthens the human-animal bond. I created Olfactory Fun, a unique program allowing dog-reactive, puppies, seniors, and retired sport and/or working dogs to engage in olfactory games to benefit them physically and mentally with the goal of extending their lives for as long as possible.

COVID allowed me to deepen my education, becoming an Animal Chaplain, a CAMadvocate, and a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer through the University of Tennessee. My passion is simple: helping animals live as long as possible, in as little pain as possible. That includes fitness, preventative care, and—when the time comes—supporting people through their pets’ end-of-life journey.

Grief is personal and complex. Whether it’s the loss of a pet through death or separation, I offer guidance and community. I founded Assembly of the Wandering Shepherd (AWS) to support people navigating pet loss. Our end-of-life services are always free. We now have four volunteer certified companion animal end-of-life doulas servings our communities.

I encourage people to think about end-of-life decisions early—because preparing for death helps us live more fully. Through classes, private conversations, and grief support, I help people honor and celebrate their beloved animals.

Science and love together can accomplish incredible things. My mission is to bring both into every aspect of animal care, from joyful training to compassionate goodbyes.

Robynn Harris, ODMN, CCFT

President and Animal Chaplain, Assembly of the Wandering Shepherd