Meet Abbey lane

How did you get involved with dog training? I came to dog training by way of cats, big cats to be specific. From a young age I always knew I wanted to work with animals. I moved from Los Angeles, CA to the Midwest to go to a college which has a very specific program I was looking for. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Behavior. From there I started working at a zoo. The topic that interested me the most was exhibit enrichment for animals in the “Big Cat” area (lions and tigers and bears, oh my!). The only problem with being a zookeeper was that my extroverted personality did not get to interact with people enough. So, I went back to school to get another degree and change career fields. Some might say I still work with wild animals; I work with college students. In my free time I spend a lot of time training my own dog, going on adventures with her, and working to build more dog friendly opportunities in my community. Once I found TCCA, and met Patricia, I knew I found my new “happy place”. I love coming to the campus, being surrounded by people who have the same passions as I do and getting to spend time with my pup.

Tell us about the dogs with whom you currently share your life. Currently I spend all my time spoiling my Corgi/Mini Aussie mix named Penny Lane. I dream of having a whole herd of dogs running around my (future) farm, but for now Penny’s sassiness is keeping me busy.

 What activities do you do with your dogs? I take many different types of classes with Penny, from Tricks and Agility to Rat Class.  Penny just finished her first full year of Barnhunt as the #1 fastest dog in her class in Minnesota. She has also earned titles in FASTCat and is starting her Rally career.

What’s the best piece of training advice that you’ve ever heard? “A treatment method or an educational method that will work for one child may not work for another child. The one common denominator for all of the young children is that early intervention does work, and it seems to improve the prognosis.“- Temple Grandin

Every living creature is different. There is not one right way to do something. If one method doesn’t work, try another. The important thing is that you keep trying!  And that you keep it kind.

What is your teaching background? I have a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior and a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration. Currently I work as an academic advisor at a local college. I have been teaching at TCCA since 2021 and have earned my CPDT-KA certification (Certified Professional Dog Trainer).   I currently teach Family Dog Manners at TCCA.

What is your favorite thing about teaching dog training classes? I love watching how the relationship between owner and dog changes over the course of a 6-week class. It is amazing how much training helps bond a human with their pet and visa versa. Reflecting with someone about how much change they have seen in their dog is so rewarding.  

What do you do when you are not training dogs? I love exploring the natural beauty of Minnesota. I also appreciate enjoying the different seasons (yes, that includes winter). I love to socialize, so any opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy each other’s company re-energizes me.

What are some special memories you have of your dogs? Penny and I have had a long list of adventures together. From her winning the Corgi Races at Canterbury to appearing on the local news to help build a new park. Every summer she comes camping with me, and if there is any sort of water nearby, she will be the first one in it.  As soon as there is any snow on the ground in the winter, she is rolling in it. I can’t pick just one memory, because every moment with Penny brings a smile to my face.