Meet your trainer.

Hello!

Hi I’m Sam—hold on one sec, I’ve just got to grab a squeaky toy to get Fred and Mack to look at the camera…

A few years ago, I traded in my lab coat and long 405 commutes for life on the Olympic Peninsula. I left a career as a cancer research associate and moved to Sequim to be with my husband.

My path into training started with rescue work, where I met all kinds of incredible dogs — each one different, each with their own way of moving through the world. It didn’t take long to realize that behavior is just an outward expression of how a dog feels, and that our job isn’t to control it, but to understand it.

Now, through Mellow Hound, I bring that curiosity and attention to detail into every session.

My goal: support both ends of the leash with compassion, clarity, and results.

GET STARTED

Support for both end of the leash.

I believe behavior is information. My work focuses on understanding the emotional and environmental factors driving a dog’s behavior so we can build skills that hold up in real life.

I prioritize nervous system regulation, clear communication, and practical structure. Lasting change doesn’t come from control. It comes from clarity, repetition, and meeting the dog in front of you.

My goal is simple: support both ends of the leash with compassion, structure, and results that feel sustainable.

Who I Work With.

I work best with guardians who want to understand their dog — not just control their behavior.

Many of my clients are navigating reactivity, arousal, or dogs who struggle to stay regulated in daily life. They value clarity, structure, and long-term skill building over quick fixes.

You don’t need a “perfect” dog to work with me. You do need curiosity, consistency, and a willingness to look at the whole picture, including your dog’s needs outside of formal training.

If you’re looking for fast compliance or rigid obedience, we may not be the best fit.

But if you want steadier walks, clearer communication, and a dog who feels more capable in the world — you’re in the right place.

Educaction

Peninsula School for Dog Trainers, 2022 Peninsula School for Dog Trainers – Assessed (PSDT-A)

Continuing Education

  • 2025 CAM Level 1

  • 2024 Master Course - Aggression in Dogs, Michael Shikashio

  • 2023 Behavioral Toy Play, Meagan Karnes

  • 2022 Reactivity Retreat, Meagan Karnes