Meet Our Trainers
Dedicated professionals guiding you and your dog with empathy, knowledge, and positive reinforcement.
Gail Furst, CPDT-KA, LFDM
Gail brings extensive expertise in dog training, therapy preparation, and canine wellness. Certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) and the Animal Behavior Institute, she also holds certification as a Licensed Family Dog Mediator (LFDM), using Kim Brophey’s LEGS® framework to provide individualized, whole-dog training.
Gail is a mentor for Animal Behavior College and CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, and has advanced training in canine first aid, CPR, and aromatherapy. Her commitment to holistic care, along with her volunteer work at the local humane society, supports her mission to help dogs thrive emotionally and physically.
As an AKC evaluator for all levels of the Canine Good Citizen program—including S.T.A.R. Puppy, CGC, Community Canine, and Urban CGC—Gail supports teams working toward certification and confident public behavior. She trains alongside her spirited CGC-certified Boxer, Will, who continues to inspire her passion for canine learning.
Julie LaBarr, LFDM, ABCDT
Julie brings over 25 years of clinical nursing experience and a heartfelt commitment to deepening the bond between dogs and their humans. As a Licensed Family Dog Mediator (LFDM) and Animal Behavior College Certified Trainer (ABCDT), she incorporates the LEGS® framework to help families understand the unique needs and natural instincts of their dogs.
Julie is an evaluator for the AKC CGC Program, including S.T.A.R. Puppy, CGC, Community Canine, and Urban CGC, and serves as a Tester/Observer for the Alliance of Therapy Dogs, helping teams prepare for therapy dog certification. She specializes in canine first aid, CPR, and pet massage, supporting the emotional and physical well-being of her clients.
Her work centers on building positive social relationships, developing confident canine companions, and empowering well-meaning owners through empathy, education, and respect. Julie trains with her CGC-certified English Mastiff, Georgie, and her spirited French Bulldog, Lil.
