Why do I specialize in seniors?
A few years ago Jasper, my senior Rat Terrier, was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) that left him with partial paralysis in both hind legs, and incontinence.
My veterinary team was amazing at getting his pain under-control, and introduced me to physio and laser therapy. Within six weeks Jasper was back on his feet, though very wobbly - this was just the start of our journey!
Living with a senior dog, especially one with mobility issues, highlighted a much needed service that bridges the gap between owners and their veterinary team.
There’s so much to know, and so little time available during a conventional vet appointment, that many of your questions may go unanswered - and you’ll be left wondering, like I was, what steps to take next.
This is why I created Your Senior Dog - to provide you with the guidance and support required, so you can advocate for your dog and provide them with an enjoyable, fulfilling life, that’s free of FEAR, PAIN & ANXIETY.
Do I ONLY work with Senior Dogs?
No - I specialize in separation anxiety and dogs with musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, IVDD, hip dysplasia, spondylosis etc.
These conditions are often attributed to dogs in their senior years, but can actually affect ANY dog - at ANY age.
When Jasper was 8 years old he started to loose interest in playing.
At the time I thought this was normal, he was getting older - so I expected him to slow down a little. A year later he was diagnosed with arthritis in both hips.
Playing was painful, which is why he’d stopped doing it - I just didn’t know that at the time.
Today I’m a Licensed Dynamic Practitioner. I’m trained to analyse all aspects of your dog’s daily life, including their physical health, which can be a major contributing factor to recent changes in behaviour, or challenges such as separation anxiety or reactivity.
I work closely with veterinarians - providing them with the evidence needed, so THEY can make an accurate diagnosis, and start a treatment plan.
No more hidden pain, means a better quality of life.
Jasper is now 13 - his zest for life quickly returned once his pain was managed, as has his desire to dig BIG holes in the garden!
Did you know, I hold TWO certifications specializing in Separation Anxiety?
To fully understand the complexities of this condition it’s important that the person you work with is up to date with the latest research and methodology.
There are currently only two certifications that specialize in canine separation anxiety, CSAT and SA Pro. Your veterinarian will recommend that you work with a trainer who holds at least one of these certifications - I have both!
Academic & Professional Credentials:
BSc Zoology, The University of Nottingham, UK
CPDT-KA, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
CSAT - Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer, Malena DeMartini
Dynamic Dog Practitioner, Gemma Harvey
Fear Free Certified Professional Dog Trainer
National Diploma in Animal Care, Duchy College (2 yr program)
Continued Education:
Canine Arthritis Management, Level 1
Animal Hospice Care Provider, SPIRITS in Transition
Pet Loss Grief Counsellor, Coleen Ellis
Separation Anxiety Pro Trainer, Julie Naismith
Animal Aromatherapy Specialist, Dr Janet Roak
Family Dog Mediation, Kim Brophey
Aggression in Dogs Master Course, Michael Shikashio
Family Paws Parent Education, Licensed Educator 2018-2020
Why’s it important that I list my credentials and continued education? Because the dog training industry isn’t regulated, which means that ANYONE can advertise their services as a “dog trainer” or “animal behaviourist” with no formal training or experience - shocking, I know!
Zoologist. Artist. Mom.
I spent the first 10 years after graduating from University studying wolves, whales and wild horses. I also planted a LOT of trees, worked in wildlife rehab, and spent my first two months in Canada volunteering at the research station in Churchill, MA.
My passion has always been animal behaviour, but it wasn't until I became a dog trainer that I felt like I could finally put my observational skills to the best use.
I'm dyslexic, which means I have phenomenal problem solving skills, I see a lot of the small details that most people miss, and I'm really good at identifying patterns and correlations.
I live with my family on Vancouver Island. I'm Mom to two small children, an old Rat Terrier named Jasper, and a one-eyed Doberman called Rosie.
I keep bees, paint murals on the walls with my kids, and roast my own coffee.
SMART Support is named in honor of my Nana, Heather Smart. An early pioneer in ethical and kind care for all creatures.
S.M.A.R.T. stands for Simple Management And R+ Techniques.
*R+ aka Positive Reinforcement.
With Saffrina’s help I was better able to advocate for Cooper at the vet clinic.
Saffrina gave me the knowledge and the confidence to go back to the vet and make requests I didn't know I was able to. Saffrina got us through one of the hardest times with our dog Cooper and now he is on the path to healing.
Thank you Saffrina for your guidance, friendship and knowledge. Cooper and I are so much better for it. I don't think Cooper would be here or have comfort in his final times without you.
♡ Nicole & Cooper - Campbell River, BC