Natalie Hawkins, CFFT, has been professionally training dogs since founding Friends for Life Holistic Pet Training in July 2000. Over her 25+ years of experience, she has become a strong advocate for Force Free and Positive Methods training, emphasizing that successful relationships between pets and their families hinge on patience, guidance, support, and understanding. Utilizing scientifically proven methods, Natalie assists families in nurturing their bonds with their pets in a compassionate way. As a pet trainer and owner of four dogs—Sookie Fae (MAS), Clara Rose (Border Collie), Doc Brown (Australian Shepherd), and Arrow (Blue Heeler)—she appreciates the unique dynamics that each family shares with their dogs. Natalie firmly rejects the use of pain, force, or fear in training, along with tools such as shock, prong, or choke collars. She is currently a Certified Professional Fear Free Trainer and a Professional Member of the National Institute of Canine Ethics. Committed to her professional development, she has completed numerous online courses in canine training and behavior modification, particularly regarding aggression. Professional Member of APDT, ABBA, PPG, and an AKC CGC Evaluator.

My name is Amy, and I am a certified dog trainer through ABCDT and a proud member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers. My journey into dog training began years ago when I discovered my passion for dogs through everyday interactions with them. This passion propelled me to pursue an education online at Animal Behavior College, where I gained practical experience working with a local dog rescue in Evergreen, CO, and alongside another experienced trainer. After completing my studies, I established Amy’s Mountain Dog Training, serving multiple communities in Colorado, including Evergreen, Kittredge, Conifer, and Morrison. My mission is to help dog owners achieve their training goals while fostering a strong, lasting bond with their pets. I offer puppy and basic obedience classes, as well as private lessons, utilizing force-free training methods, clickers, and treats. I firmly believe that positive reinforcement is essential in effective training. My dog, Bailey, is a testament to this approach; she has learned all the basics and even some fun tricks, and we enjoy agility activities together in the summer. She continues to teach me valuable lessons every day.

In the early ‘90s, Christi discovered the disc dog sport while searching for a way to engage her Australian Shepherd puppy, Wally. Recognizing that active, intelligent herding dogs require both mental and physical stimulation, she found that frisbee was an ideal outlet. Earning several obedience titles with Wally, she also explored agility and herding but ultimately focused on frisbee due to her limited time in grad school. Her dedication to the sport deepened when she fostered Rider, a frisbee champion who quickly became a permanent member of her family. After relocating to Colorado, Christi and Rider achieved remarkable success, securing six consecutive state championships from 1998 to 2003, along with prestigious titles such as the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge National Championship and the UFO European Freestyle Championship. Their passion for the sport led them to international competitions and opportunities to teach disc dog seminars, showcasing the bond forged through their shared love of frisbee.

With a background equally rich in equestrian sport and dog training, Jen has a wealth of experience to draw from in her mission to assist pets and their owners. Having worked with various dog and cat rescues across Chicago and the ASPCA Denver Dumb Friends League, as well as completing courses with the National Animal Cruelty Investigation School, she understands the challenges that most shelter pets face, often arriving with little to no training. Jen is deeply committed to ensuring these animals thrive in their forever homes, leading fulfilling lives. She believes that building trust through consistent behavior is crucial for nurturing the parent/pet bond, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all family members. By emphasizing positive reward training, Jen empowers owners to guide their pets toward making the “right decision” with respect, kindness, and patience. Additionally, she operates a wellness business aimed at promoting happiness and health for both pets and their human companions.