Hi, my name is Carina. I’m a dog lover with 37 years of experience being a pet parent to four dogs -- one Irish Setter and three Labrador Retrievers. I am deeply passionate about all animals and their wellbeing. I believe in positive behavior reinforcement – rewards and praise for desired behavior – as it helps build a strong bond with your dog based on trust and respect. Over the years, I have enrolled my dogs in a wide range of training classes from puppy basics to becoming Good Canine Citizens. Dog behavior has always fascinated me – why do dogs do the things they do? It is a forever learning experience, that is for certain! I discovered that one of my Labs (Polo) had a natural gift for being a therapy dog. She had a calm demeanor, patience, confidence and a love for human contact. Polo went through formal training and was certified through Therapy Dogs International. We became a team and volunteered 2.5 years at Cleveland Clinic Indian River Scully-Welsh Cancer Center, offering comfort and smiles to patients and staff. For three years I volunteered at the Humane Society of Vero Beach, Florida, working with shelter dogs as a trainer, socializer and dog walker. I’m certified in Pet CPR and First Aid. I’m the author of a reflection journal I created for dog lovers titled “Dogs Leave Paw Prints Everywhere, Especially Upon Your Heart: Forever Imprinted”. The purpose of the journal is for pet parents, families and children to record the special relationship they share with their dog through guided writing prompts.