Kerrie Hoar, M.S., CDBC, CPDT-KA, ADT, FFCP (she/her/hers)
After teaching group classes for puppies, basic manners and reactivity, I opened Crimson Hound to fill a need for a rewards-based trainer who works with clients one-to-one in their homes.
I take a holistic approach to dog training. Strengthening the human-dog relationship and teaching life skills is the main focus of training sessions. Obedience is not our main focus. My approach looks at the unique individual sitting in front of us. A one-size-fits-all or quick-fix methodology has no place in dog training. My training plans include realistic goal setting, management protocols and enrichment. We teach new behaviors as needed. Every plan is customized to address client goals and dog needs.
My training philosophy is grounded in rewards-based methods and I do not prescribe to methods or tools that rely upon pain, force, coercion and punishment. I focus on understanding why the dog is doing what he is doing and meeting the needs that are at the root of the issue. My clients come away from sessions with a new understanding and a stronger bond with their dog(s).
Animal rescue and welfare has always been an important part of my life.
As a trainer, I offer free and reduced-cost training for shelters and rescues to help dogs get adopted and stay in those homes. I have fostered and/or adopted all of my pets and volunteered at local shelters and rescues. Additionally, I have coordinated and driven many rescue transports.
I specialize in working with dogs who have experienced trauma and in helping those who exhibit fearful, anxious and aggressive behaviors. Nothing is as rewarding as watching these dogs blossom and gain confidence.
2024 Platinum Award recipient for Best Pet Training by La Crosse CommunityVotes
A Sniffspot Best Dog Trainer of 2023 in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
I grew up in Montana surrounded by a menagerie of animals. This gave me the opportunity to train a variety of species. These included dogs, horses, cows, chickens sheep, bunnies, goats and even a raccoon. After finishing my M.S. in Biology, I relocated to Wisconsin with my husband and began a 20-year career in teaching biology at university. The educator in me continues to remain passionate about continuing to expand my knowledge of dog behavior and training.
Trainer Credentials
Education
- M.S. in Biology, Montana State University
- B.S. in Biology, Montana State University
- B.S. in Animal Science, Montana State University
Certifications and Credentials
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT)
- Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
- L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediator (FDM)
- Aggression in Dog Master Course certificate
- Trauma-informed Pet Professional certificate
- Enrichment Framework for Behavior Modification Master Class
- PPG Canine Training Professional
- Certified Dog Bite Prevention Educator
- Licensed Be A Tree Program Presenter
- HART Participating Trainer
- CARE REDI Certified: Bronze Level
Professional Affiliations
- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
- Fear Free Pets
- Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
- Humane Alliance of Rescue Trainers (HART) – Board of Directors and Participating Trainer
Podcasts & Webinars
- The Language of Dogs (5/18/24 – Your Dog’s Friend)
- Signs Your Dog’s Behavior Needs Attention A Dose of Dog Podcast Episode #71
- Adding a Rescue Dog to Your Family A Dose of Dog Podcast Episode #68
- Helping Your Fearful Dog (4/23/23 – Your Dog’s Friend)
- Family Dog Mediation: Going Beyond Training to Understand your Dog’s Behavior (2/25/23 – Your Dog’s Friend)