My name is Jessica Sanderson and I am the owner and Head Trainer of "Balanced Behaviour Dog Training". My goal is to educate owners and help dogs reach their full potential.
@thestructuredcanine Pack hike!
About me
I have a Masters degree in Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and have been in the field of behaviour modification for 5 years. Specifically, I have worked with children, youth and adults with various special needs such as autism, down syndrome, and other developmental disabilities. In March 2021 I completed my supervisory hours, passed my board exam and was certified as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA).
Working in the field of behaviour analysis has changed my worldview and opened my mind to the infinite opportunities for changing behaviour in meaningful ways, including dog behaviour! My work and education in the field of ABA has provided me with extensive knowledge and hands-on experience on how to apply behaviour principles to produce effective and long-lasting behaviour change.
In 2018, I started working for a local rescue organization as an Adoption Advisor and quickly realized how many owner's are struggling with a lot of the same issues and often do not find effective or long-term solutions to their problems.
I am extremely passionate, driven, and dedicated to the field of dog training and my ultimate goal is to make positive and meaningful changes in as many owners and dogs lives as possible. I believe that every owner and dog should have the opportunity to experience stress-free walks, safe off-leash adventures and live harmoniously.
Continuing education
I have had the pleasure of working closely with Nicole Mann @ The Structured Canine through a 1-day leash walking seminar (October 2019) and a 5-day Shadow Program (August 2020). I received over 50 hours of hands on experience and education working with dogs, various training tools, social media/marketing, administration, client interactions, how the business operates day-to-day, and how they get long-lasting results.
In April 2022 I attended a 5-day intensive Shadow Program hosted by Stephanie Vichinsky @ Method K9. This program provided me with invaluable insight on how to help dogs with challenging behavioural issues and a new perspective that has allowed me to fine tune my own training approach.
Restoule Provincial Park
I am committed to being a lifelong learner and will always value continuing education opportunities to further grow my skill set and knowledge about dogs and training. One of the best ways to learn new and alternative approaches is by working with and observing other trainers and training as many dogs as possible. I plan on continuing to attend seminars, workshops and shadow programs to grow my skill set and experiences. Dogs keep you on your toes; just when you think you’ve figured them out, they throw a curve ball and you need to adapt or adjust your approach. This is why it is so important to “train the dog in front of you”.
LUNA
Luna is a 5-year-old mexi-mutt who I adopted in 2018. When I first got Luna she was terrified of everything; hardwood floors, opening doors, sneezing, the wind, and she was reactive on leash towards other dogs.
As an owner, I understand how challenging it can be to own a fearful dog and how isolating and defeating it can feel at times… but I also know how gratifying it is to put in the work and see results.
Flash forward to today and Luna is thriving! After providing her with clear and consistent communication, boundaries and structure she has flourished into a much more confident and balanced dog. Luna has taught me the importance of having patience, advocating for your dog and that training never stops.
If you want your dog to behave a certain way you have to be willing to make the changes to get them there; every interaction you have with your dog is a training opportunity! I think it is so important to recognize both the strengths and weaknesses with your dog (and yourself) and always work towards being better.
I am so proud of how far Luna has come and want to help other owners reach their full potential with their dogs.
Luna is not the dog I expected or the dog that I thought I wanted… she is the dog that I needed to learn, push myself and grow. She has taught me so much about myself and dog training.
Luna will be involved in training for socialization (co-existence and interaction), walk bys and distractions as needed.
“Repetition creates the master”
