Brenda K. Rushman, Dip. C.B., C.C.B.T., C.C.B.C.

Myself and my husband Johnny live (currently) with 5 dogs: 3 St. Bernards, 2 mixed breeds… 4 are rescued dogs, and have chosen to stay. I come from a very large family (3 brothers and 2 sisters, tons of nieces and nephews, and an adult son of my own).  I've had animals all my life, as my parents were animal people, too.

All of my dogs are family members, and have been trained in companion obedience without use of aversive technique. I hold degrees in business, but chose to "let my life go to the dogs" when I adopted my first St. Bernard, Cis, from a local backyard breeder, and could find no appropriate dog-related facilities (boarding, grooming, daycare, etc.) in the area. Long-term goals include erection of a facility that would offer all of these services, plus training, using only positive reinforcement techniques in dealing with the dogs and their humans.  Education in dog-related studies include a diploma in Canine Behavior, certification as a canine behavior counselor, advanced certification in behavioral theory, and specializations in both working with aggressive dogs and in training processes.  I specialize in working with aggressive dogs without the use of force or aversive technique.

In the interests of decreasing the numbers of dogs in shelters, I offer breed counseling, adoption counseling, behavior counseling to adopters of rescued dogs (at a discount), breeder referrals when appropriate, and adoption referrals. I've taught (and continue to teach) rescue volunteers to use gentle methodology in their rehabilitation of the rescued dogs. I travel over the tri-state area teaching rescue volunteers assessment and behavior modification technique, to help to improve their relationships with the dogs.

I studied extensively with Brandy Oliver, M.A., acclaimed owner of DoggieDoor.com, and was the Message Boards Manager of Brandy’s website for 2 years, owning many of the topics there. I continue to further my education whenever possible, through reading, video, hands-on, observation, and attending workshops when offered close-to-home. During the course of my research in dog behavior and methodology, it became necessary to make an ethical and moral commitment to the use of positive reinforcement methodology, in order to facilitate the human/animal bond, and, in the process, denounce all use of aversive or coercive technique. Toward this endeavor, my behavior consulting business, PAWSItive Solutions! Canine Behavior Counseling, Ltd., was born... a private-session, results-oriented training and behavior modification business in eastern Ohio. Since my background is so deeply entrenched in working with rescued dogs, my business offers a 25% discount on training rates, for those dogs that are altered prior to commencement of training. I still do rescue work on a local level, offering rescue groups working with St. Bernards free consultations with problem dogs, and operate a private, national mentoring group for rescue people who work with large and giant breeds.

I am a member of the Dog Scouts of America, and serve on the Board of Directors for the Academy of Canine Behavior Theory where I teach courses in canine behavior counseling to future trainers.