Tracy Franken has been working with dogs for over 20 years. Growing up with dogs her whole life, her love of dogs began as a small child, but she began working with them at the age of 16, volunteering at the University of Guelph. After a short time, staff at the University noticed her "skill" with handling the dogs especially shy or timid dogs and offered her a paid position. In 1993,Tracy attended St. Lawrence College for Veterinary Technology. She began her technician career at McMaster University in 1996 but in her spare time continued her study of dog behaviour and training through books, lectures and by attending PABA (Professioanl Animal Behaviour Associates )seminars, therapeutic touch seminars and obedience work. She took in her first abused dog shortly after the purchase of her first home in Guelph, and after that began a rescue and rehabilitation of dogs. Caring for 6-8 dogs at a time, her "pack" was always changing and her house was alway full.
After her marriage and the birth of her first child, Tracy and her family moved to the Ottawa Valley and eventually bought a horse farm in Arnprior. Taking in horses, and studing natural horsemanship, Tracy began a journey of learning about "love, language and leadership" in horse training. 3 years later, Tracy began working part time as a manager at a wonderful local Pet Resort. There she not only rediscovered her love and passion for dogs, but found a commonality in the core principles of training techniques of these different species. In her spare time she took a course on dog grooming, and soon after began working full time as a pet activity co-ordinator. That job gave her the opportunity to meet tons of new and facinating dogs and in the process study dog behaviour first hand.
Through discussions with dog owners and with the encouragement of her employers, friends and family members Tracy began helping people in their homes changing unwanted dog behaviours. She has recently continued her dedication to dogs by transforming her existing horse facility to include dedicated suites for dogs, large secure playyard and socialization area.
I am always grateful for the lessons that dogs teach me.
It is truly a blessing to be able to do what you love everyday!
Tracy Franken VT, Professional Pet Groomer
