Dot's Dog Training

 

"The deeply-ingrained passion to expand and promote the quality of life of companion animals  led me to a career in dog training and behavior modification" 

-Dorotea Rivera, CPDT

 

How It All Began:

In the Spring of 2005 Dot was introduced to the Manhattan Animal Care & Control (ACC).  There, she participated in a dog training program. Soon she was also fostering and volunteering for A Cause for Paws, a non-profit cat & dog rescue group. Dot networked with established trainers and assisted  them in their group classes. Among them: Holly Santana, Melissa Chan, CPDT, and  Dawn Prentiss, CPDT. Dot also attended lectures, workshops, and participated in classes with her own dogs whenever possible. She became a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and earned her certification in Pet CPR & First Aid.

Dot continued to educate herself by researching dog behavior modification, dog nutrition, and training methods. Later that year she assisted Melissa Chan, CPDT, at the Manhattan Animal Care & Control, conduct formal behavior evaluations to assess propensity to aggress and placement suitability in their shelter dogs. She also assisted Dawn Prentiss, CPDT with group classes  in Brooklyn, NY and carried out her own private sessions with clients.

In 2006 she became certified through the only independent certifying body for professional dog trainers, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT). 

At the end of 2006 Dot founded Dot's Dog Training & Pet Services. Her training philosophy is based on presenting you with the fundamental tools to improve your relationship with your dog. One in which the leash isn't the only thing connecting you to your dog. She stays informed of the different methods used in training and behavior modification because she believes each dog learns differently and has individual needs.

She continues to teach group classes for Dawn Prentiss, CPDT, founder of Semper Fido (located in Brooklyn), including training classes in Spanish-this is NYC's only Spanish language dog training class.

Giving Back:

Dot currently, volunteers her training services to Animal Care & Control's Safety Net Program and has taught clicker training skills  to the kids in their TLC Program. In  addition, she also helped  supervise a monthly outdoor dog walking program in the Manhattan Shelter for a large corporate company.

Through dedicated years of volunteering she's been exposed to dogs of many different sizes, breeds, and temperaments. Dot highly recommends volunteering at your local animal shelter. She loves the relaxation and satisfaction she feels when she's around them.

The Inspiration:

Knowing she can do something to help improve the life quality of  companion animals, educate their caregivers and the general public.  

She shares her heart and home with her two dogs: Gizmo and Chloe, and three cats: Kit, Nemo, and Larry. Plus, the occasional foster or sleepover fur pal!                                                               

Dorotea Rivera, CPDT at Inwood Hill Park with her two dogs, Chloe & Gizmo.

Working with a shelter dog at NYC Animal Care & Control.

Teaching a group class for Semper Fido in Brooklyn.

Conducting a canine body language and defensive handling orientation for volunteers at a shelter.