Meet your Coach

My name is Fatima.

AKA The Pawsitive Dog Lady

Owner and Head Trainer of Big Feeling Dogs

I’m a certified dog trainer through the prestigious Karen Pryor Academy (KPA-CTP) founded by one of the pioneers of positive reinforcement training for companion pets. I had the privilege of completing my course with Terry Ryan, another renowned name in the dog training world (seriously, just google her, she’s awesome).

Since then I’ve expanded my knowledge and expertise through multiple certifications. You can find my qualifications and continuing education details below.

Its my mission to help devoted guardians of dogs with big feelings like myself. I’ve been there and I know it can be embarrassing, and frustrating and stressful and there’s days you question whether you’re even cut out for it. Trust me, the fact that you’ve made it this far tells me that you are. There is an amazing life for the two of you just on the other side of this website. Let me help you get there.

Certifications &
Education

Certifications

Karen Pryor Academy Certified

  • Dog Trainer Foundations
  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer
    • KPA-CTP #92316

Aggressive Dog Certified

  • Masterclass Graduate

Fear Free Pets Certified

  • Fear Free Boarding and Daycare Certification Program

Canine Health Canada Certified

  • Canine Health Canada Certified
Continuing Education

Courses

  • Circle Method for Leash pulling and Reactivity – FDSA
  • Introducing Highly Reactive Dogs – Ken Ramirez
  • Movements Games – KPA
  • Understanding Pain in Dogs – Fear Free Pets

Louie

I discovered my passion for working with dogs with big feelings, when my 6 yr old rescue, Louie, started displaying reactivity. Sadly I did use antiquated methods to try to help my dog. It only made the problem worse. It wasn’t until I worked with an educated, certified positive reinforcement trainer virtually, that I actually figured out what was going on with Louie and was able to make a positive difference in not just our walks, but also our relationship. It’s been a journey of discovery for both of us and it continues till this day.

Training should be practical, effective, and yet an enjoyable, fun and engaging experience for both you and your dog

I believe that every dog deserves to be treated with kindness, respect and compassion. Especially the ones struggling with big feelings. Often the guardian’s of these dog’s have big feelings of their own and deserve the same compassion, respect and empathy. I cater to both ends of the leash. When you work with me you will get:

Rewards based Training

I only use scientifically proven, humane, fear-free positive reinforcement methods such as toys, treats and other life reinforcers to teach behaviors, resulting in happy dogs and happy guardians

No pinch, shock, choke, or coercion. EVER!

Seriously. Ever. I put it in here twice because its that important! Ensuring you and your dog look forward to your sessions vs dreading them!

Educated, Certified Guidance

I’m intentionally certified by multiple industry-leading organizations and continue my education so that I can provide you with the latest battle-tested solutions, making sure the advice I share actually delivers results

Global expertise at your fingertips

As a certified member of industry-leading organizations, I have access to the collective expertise of animal behaviorists globally to help support your case. Two minds are better than one and thousands of minds are better than two.

Services

Tailored training for every need.

Dog on Dog
Aggression

Does Rover see red when he sees other dogs?
Let’s turn that red to a cool blue!

Dog on Person Aggression

Stranger danger? Or does he have it in for someone at home?
Let’s make him less trigger happy.

Leash
Reactivity

Are dog walks a minefield of pulling, barking and lunging?
Calm walks are within reach!

Resource
Guarding

Fido not a big sharer?
Let’s convince him sharing is caring.

Intra-household aggression

Having trouble maintaining peace in the house?
Coexistence is possible!

Excessive Barking

Is Lola alerting you to every sound at the window or door?
Give your ears the gift of sweet silence.

Training should be practical, effective, and yet an enjoyable, fun and engaging experience for both you and your dog

I believe that every dog deserves to be treated with kindness, respect and compassion. Especially the ones struggling with big feelings. Often the guardian’s of these dog’s have big feelings of their own and deserve the same compassion, respect and empathy. I cater to both ends of the leash. When you work with me you will get:

Rewards based Training

I only use scientifically proven, humane, fear-free positive reinforcement methods such as toys, treats and other life reinforcers to teach behaviors, resulting in happy dogs and happy guardians

No pinch, shock, choke, or coercion. EVER!

Seriously. Ever. I put it in here twice because its that important! Ensuring you and your dog look forward to your sessions vs dreading them!

Educated, Certified Guidance

I’m intentionally certified by multiple industry-leading organizations and continue my education so that I can provide you with the latest battle-tested solutions, making sure the advice I share actually delivers results

Global expertise at your fingertips

As a certified member of industry-leading organizations, I have access to the collective expertise of animal behaviorists globally to help support your case. Two minds are better than one and thousands of minds are better than two.