Michelle Reindal
Owner
CPDT-KA, CFDM

Our Story:

Banjo found me in 2011 and forever changed my life. This is all because of him.

When my guy found me, my only real experience with dogs was growing up with one - a friendly, easy-going Collie/Golden Retriever named Pepper, who adapted very well to life in the ‘burbs with a young family.

Banjo, on the other hand, a Terrier/Chihuahua, grew up on the mean streets of LA and found himself in the sheltering system for two years. He developed an intense fear of being touched by strangers (who can blame him?) and on-leash reactivity toward other dogs - not surprising when he was used to being off leash all the time!

He came to me as a foster dog, and the first few weeks I tried in earnest to get him adopted - but then a funny thing happened. At the same time I was learning about his past trauma and emotional turmoil, I was learning about his fierce love and loyalty, comical sassiness, eagerness to learn, and extreme intelligence.

When we found positive reinforcement training and harnessed his energy and smarts while understanding the ‘why’ behind the behaviors, the most beautiful thing developed: An unbreakable bond, cemented in trust, patience, time, and love - so much love. And Banjo flourished. He transformed from a fearful, shut-down, anxious pup to my carefree, confident, best boy living his best life.

In turn, I learned that it was OK that Banjo did not want strangers’ hands on him. It was OK to advocate for him, understanding that our expectations for our dogs are detrimentally unrealistic.

Somewhere along our journey, I knew that I had to pass along this information to others because it literally transformed my life.

I worked with dogs at the Seattle Animal Shelter, Dog’s Day Out, and just about anywhere someone had a dog and needed help - while still working my day job (video production), but it was never enough.

Banjo died on July 10, 2019, and I vowed to leave and never return to passion-less work. It is in his honor that I am now working with dogs full-time - especially the shy, reactive, nervous ones - they’re my favorite.

I’m forever motivated by what Banjo taught me, and I want to share it with you. My goal is to work with you and your cherished pup to help you both form an unshakable bond that only comes from safety, trust, love, and understanding.

I am currently taking private training and behavior clients virtually and in person.