Thinking PAWSitively

I believe that all cats and their caregivers deserve to exist in an environment where everyone thrives together! In 2023 alone, 3.2 million cats entered shelters across the United States. The best way to help shelter cats is to prevent them from becoming shelter cats in the first place! My methods of  behavior modification are based in education, enrichment and understanding of a cat's natural states and behaviors. 

"Thinking PAWsitively" means thinking about your cat's behavior from your cat's purrspective! I use feline-focused techniques to teach cats and their families new skills and behaviors. My approach focuses on enriched environments, building trust and communication between cats and their families, resulting in a happier and peaceful home environment for everyone. 

Soon after bringing home my first cat as an adult, I quickly realized why she had the name Mischief! Between the separation-anxiety, inappropriate urination and overall teenage kitten chaos, she was my first deep dive into cat behavior! Soon after adopting her, I graduated with my degree in Animal Behavior from the University of New England. I then began working at a local animal shelter in Westbrook, ME. During my role as an adoption counselor I found a deep love for learning to understand each cat on an individual basis and a desire to help adopters with their own feline friends! Eventually I began helping people by doing behavior consultations through the shelter. After 5 years working for that shelter (and a host of behavioral fosters/cats of my own), I realized that I could help families and shelters on a bigger level. I am Fear-Free Shelter Certified and have 5 years of working professionally with cats as well as 15 years overall working in animal welfare.