About
Hello!
My name is Luisa and I am the animal lover, trainer and writer behind Ascent Animal Training. I am passionate about force-free, science-based training methods and I strongly believe that training is so much more than just obedience. I believe that training is about building and strengthening bonds, creating communication and improving lives.
After my husband and I adopted our first dog I became involved in animal rescue, which lead to an interest in animal behaviour and training. I completed a two year apprenticeship under Catherine Harbord of Impawsible Possible which ignited a passion for learning more about science-based, force-free dog training. I am currently completing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology degree through Athabasca University and am so excited to continue my education and to learn more about animal behaviour!
My absolute passion is sharing my knowledge through writing. On this blog you’ll find researched, science-backed articles on numerous training topics as well as training tips and advice. If there’s an article you’d like to read or a topic you’d like to see covered, please Contact Me!
Fun Facts
Fun Facts
- Our dogs sleep in our bed and are allowed on the couches. Nothing beats their warm little cuddles.
- My husband and I share our home with three dogs, one red eared slider, one hedgehog and two poison dart frogs.
- My idea of an ideal weekend includes lots of books or an educational seminar to attend. Continuing education is so, so important!
My absolute passion is sharing my knowledge through writing. On this blog you’ll find researched, science-backed articles on numerous training topics. If there’s an article you’d like to see, please contact me (link)!
Publications
Defining and Refining the Cortisol Vacation (Peer Reviewed) – Winter 2020 IAABC Journal
Summer 2020 IAABC Journal – The Welfare of Pet Hedgehogs
Education
In Progress
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
In Progress
IAABC/FDSA Lemonade Conference
2018
Dr. Karen Overall Veterinary Behaviour Seminar
2016
Canine Science Symposium
2016
IAABC Feline Behaviour
Walks & Wags Pet First Aid
2016
Dog Trainer and Behaviour Consultant – Impawsible Possible
Blog
The Perils of Peeing and Pooing
Ahhh house training! Much like potty training for humans, there are many how-to’s and how-not-to’s, along with confusion, frustration, and the hourly temptation to give up.
Loving a Pet That You Can’t Touch
I’m part of several hedgehog groups on Facebook and everyday, without fail, there are heartbreaking posts by people asking why their hedgehog “hates” them. Frequently, these owners feel defeated and that they are bad animal parents because they can’t get their prickly little friend to warm up to them. This post is for them.
The Complete Guide to Choosing a Dog Trainer
When it comes time to choose someone to train your dog or to help them overcome behavioural concerns, how in the world should you choose the very best for your best friend?
Canine Enrichment as a New Parent
Here are some super simple, non-exhausting, non-labour intensive ideas for canine enrichment as you adjust to your new life as a parent.
Caring For Your Dog When You Can’t Care For Yourself
for those who struggle with an illness (mental or physical), it can be a struggle to care for our pets the way they deserve when we are struggling just to care for ourselves.
Stay Stay Stay
Although perhaps one of the more boring tricks to show off, a solid and reliable “stay” is perhaps one of the most useful skills you could teach your dog.
Dear Parent of a Reactive Dog
Dear Parent of a Reactive Dog
Just wanted to send a quick note today to let you know you’re doing okay. I know it didn’t feel that way earlier…