Meet the Trainer: Kerrie Hoar

Kerrie Hoar, M.S., CDBC, CPDT-KA (she/her/hers)

Kerrie Hoar - dog trainer - Crimson Hound LLC

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.

In addition to training, I am an animal-assisted skills and wellness coach with WRIC Comprehensive Community Services. My role is to assist my clients in reaching their long-term goals through coaching the client and their pet through various techniques and activities.

2024 Platinum Award recipient for Best Pet Training by La Crosse CommunityVotes

A Sniffspot Best Dog Trainer of 2023 & 2024 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.

Having loved and lost so many animals over the years, becoming a certified pet bereavement specialist felt like a perfect fit. Through Paws & Remember, I assist clients as they make end-of-life and after-death decisions for their beloved pets and support them along their journey through grief.