About
Rick is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer; graduate of the prestigious National K9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio; Professional Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) where he served as Vice President (2 years) and was on the Board of Directors (5+ years) where he oversaw the IACP Service Dog and Ethics Committees. Rick still serves on the Ethics Committee.
Rick’s journey with dog training started when he was 10 years old when his Mom brought home a Standard Poodle named Samantha, who had been retired from the show ring and needed to learn ALL the basics, to even include how to go up and down stairs and how to just be a dog. Throughout the years friends and neighbors remarked at Rick’s innate ability with dogs and referred to him as the local Dog Whisperer.
After a 36-year career as a Special Agent in federal law enforcement, Rick decided to “retire” and pursue his passion and fulfill his dream by entering the world of dog training full-time.
As a dog trainer, Rick is dedicated to positive and effective training solutions that are relationship based and fair for the dog. Rick is equally committed to furthering his education, so that he is able to offer you the best possible training solutions and methods.
Rick is also a Volhard Dog Nutrition Certified Affiliate; SpotOn Virtual Fence Certified Trainer; Dog CPR & First Aid Certified; Volunteers his time and services to several local animal rescues on the Cape; Volunteer for the Dennis Police Department; Friends of Brewster Dog Park non-profit (co-founder and Director); Appointed by the Town of Brewster Select Board to the Dog Park Development Committee where he and the Committee brought a World Class dog park to Brewster.
IACP Hall of Fame Award
The Hall of Fame has been established to recognize and honor those within our membership whose dedication to the organization contributed to create a lasting legacy. It is awarded to a member whose dedication, commitment, and work accomplishments has left a durable influence of value and integrity to the IACP.
Testimonials
Raving fans!
“Rick is doing great things with our Dougal. Highly recommend”.
Tim Whelan
Brewster