Laurie Schoenfeld

Certified Master Dog Trainer

Animal Behaviorist

Lover of All Animals

Since I was a little girl, I've always been a huge lover of all animals (although I could happily live without spiders). I would always bring home any stray I found; puppies, kittens, bunnies, ducklings...and the story was always the same...they followed me home, what was I supposed to do?

As a young adult, it was no surprise that I worked in a large veterinary practice.  I was the Assistant to the Head Veterinarian and Practice Owner.  We oversaw 6 hospitals seeing patients daily which included office visits, surgery, the emergency department, the occasional farm animal, and we even made house calls. I loved it!

But one day, I was offered a wonderful opportunity to work with humans in medical/surgical sales.  I took the job, and I enjoyed it very much.  Sadly though in 2003, everything changed. My oldest son DJ tragically passed away at the age of 17.  

While I was on leave from my company, I happened to receive an opportunity. Friends would often ask me to care for their pets while they went to work or if they were going away on vacation. They knew it would bring me some joy during a very difficult time.  Soon I started getting calls from total strangers saying "I hear you walk dogs.  Are you available?"  I started to realize that working with animals again was filling a broken place in my heart, and I made a decision to go back to work with animals full time.  I knew without a doubt it was all I wanted to do. 

I went back to school, and I became a Certified Master Dog Trainer and Canine Behaviorist.  In 2006, I founded a small company dedicated to the care, well-being, and training of animals to help prevent surrender, rehoming and abuse.  For me, this is the kind of job where I can't believe I get paid to do this.  I love working with animals...and apparently, I'm very good at it (Check my Wags Page!)

I’m a former volunteer for the Connecticut Humane Society where I participated in their Pet Therapy Program. I was given the honor of bringing therapy animals into nursing homes, mental health facilities, and group homes to visit with severely physically and mentally challenged adults and children.   I have also volunteered with the Peggy Adams Rescue League in West Palm Beach, Florida. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be of service anytime.

Ask me about our amazing dog beaches, dog parks, dog-friendly restaurants, and local rescue organizations! 

My daughter and son-in-law live in Brewer, Maine with my two grandsons. My youngest son is a brave disabled Veteran of the United States Army, and we’re a proud Military pack!

I look forward to working with you and your pack!

With Gratitude,

Laurie

(or Auntie Laurie as most of my clients call me because we become like family!)