Our Trainer
Nichole
Myers-YoungquisT, cpdt-ka
owner & CEO
"My career in dog training began in grade school when my dad & I trained our Brittany Spaniel, Dame Tristana of Lemoore, to hunt. Even back then we used positive training methods without realizing it.
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"Dog training wasn’t my first career choice. I used my Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Southern Oregon University in the broadcast media industry working in Portland, Oregon at radio stations KGON, KNRK, & KFXX & the CBS TV affiliate, KOIN-TV. My experience sharpened my customer service, public speaking, marketing, & media research skills.
"During this time I met Piper Maru, an English Pointer with a heart of gold & energy for days (read more about her on our About page). In attending many obedience classes & participating in agility with her I realized how much I enjoyed dog training & the way it built a strong bond with Piper. I obtained my first dog training certification from Animal Behavior College graduating with honors & went on to get a second one, the Certified Pet Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA).
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"I love to share my passion for dogs & training with everyone. It is through this passion for training & helping others with their dog’s behavior challenges that I developed the idea for a dog social club, where dogs & their people can thrive in a safe, mutually beneficial environment.
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" I live with my husband & our three dogs, Bayou, Buffy, & Mandy on property that they've dubbed 'The Ruff Retreat.'
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"Welcome to Zoomies Dog Social Club & Training!"
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My commitment to safety and positivity for you & your furry family member is proven by my experience.
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2022-present Oregon Humane Society, Salem, Oregon - Dog Trainer
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2022 Attended the Shelter Playgroup Alliance Cohort & Workshop at Pasadena Humane Society, Pasadena, California
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2021 Fear Free Shelter course Graduate
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2014-2022 Willamette Humane Society, Salem, Oregon - Behavior & Training Instructor, Public Training Instructor, Animal Welfare Specialist, Adoptions Specialist, volunteer dog walker, & Adoptions Ambassador
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2021 Awarded Employee of the Quarter for Excellence in Safe Actions at Willamette Humane Society, Salem, Oregon
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Member of Pet Professional Guild & Association of Professional Dog Trainers
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American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
(541) 497-1220