Where Science Meets Heart: My Story

Jessica has spent her entire life devoted to the care and well-being of animals. Her journey began in high school as a volunteer dog walker at her local humane society — a role that sparked a passion that would become her life’s work. She went on to earn her undergraduate degree in Animal Science, building a diverse and rewarding career in animal care that included working with farm animals, wildlife, and non-human primates.

In 2017, a Rottweiler puppy named Reese changed everything. When Reese began exhibiting behavioral challenges during adolescence, Jessica sought guidance from a local positive reinforcement trainer. That experience opened the door to the world of science-based dog training — and it clicked. The connection-focused, ethical approach to behavior made perfect sense, and from that point on, Jessica never looked back.

She left her position as an Animal Care Supervisor and joined a respected local training academy as a Dog Training Assistant, where she spent several years mentoring under accomplished trainers and refining her craft. Jessica completed her professional education through the CATCH Canine Trainer’s Academy in 2019, earned her CPDT-KA in 2021, and became a certified Family Dog Mediator (FDM) in 2025. She also holds a Fear Free Shelter Certification and a certificate in Animal Shelter Behavior Management.

Jessica’s experience spans pet dogs, shelter animals, and — most recently — service dogs. She previously worked as a service dog training instructor for a veterans’ organization, where she helped train dogs to support individuals living with PTSD and other disabilities. That work deepened her understanding of how behavior, environment, and relationship intersect — a perspective she brings into every private session she leads today.

In addition to her private training business, Jessica teaches puppy and manners classes at Lucky Paws Pet Resort and is a certified AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen evaluator. She has a special passion for helping puppies get off to the best possible start in life, guiding families through socialization, early learning, and relationship-building with clarity and encouragement.

With a focus on preventing behavior problems before they start — and helping families truly enjoy life with their dogs — Jessica founded Flourishing Fido to help more dogs thrive in real-life situations. Whether you're navigating puppyhood, building recall, or addressing challenges with an older dog, her goal is the same: to foster a strong bond between dogs and their people through compassionate, effective training.