How I Give Back

I’ve volunteered at the Humane Society of Broward County since 2000, in numerous capacities including in-house trainer, mentor, public speaker, education, and the boutique. I developed and taught the group training classes and Puppy Pre-school classes for 10 years. I volunteered as Behavior Consultant and trainer for the Adoption Ambassador Program for its implementation and initial 2 years, during which time I developed individual Behavior Modification Plans for each dog and counseled the Adoption Ambassadors.

I’ve given seminars for the staff, volunteers and the public on Bow Wow Basics, Body Language, Force-Free Training and Working with the Fearful Dog.

“Susan generously donates her time to work with the Ambassador dogs while in their temporary homes. She presents workshops designed to empower foster volunteers with tools and information so each dog gets personalized behavior modification. The training and behavior support the Adoption Ambassador Program is able to provide its foster volunteers makes this program a stand out among other foster programs in shelters.”

Rachel Bryan, Adoption Ambassador Program Coordinator, 2013-2015
Humane Society of Broward County

“Susan demonstrates a great deal of kindness and compassion.  Her methods are positive, creative and motivating. The Humane Society is fortunate to have such a committed individual.  She has been instrumental in developing a variety of programs, brochures and curriculums, using her talent and skills. I highly recommend Susan Claire as a dog trainer.  I feel 100% confident with her techniques and results. Susan loves what she does, which makes her the success she is today.”

Caroline Crane, Vice President of Education,
Humane Society of Broward County

 

PUP E Spots Training Program
Assistant Director, 2016-2021

PUP E (Preventing Unwanted Pet Euthanasia) is an initiative of the Miami Veterinary Foundation. I served as Assistant Director of the SPOTS Training Program, teaching Veterinary Science High School Students in the foundations of science-based dog behavior, force-free dog training & humane protocols for kennel care and enrichment. All methods are in line with the Veterinary Behavior Standard of Care. We empower the students with the knowledge and tools to change the veterinary field through their internships in veterinary hospitals and future careers in the veterinary field. As Assistant Director, my responsibilities included staffing the volunteer training team, teaching classes, giving seminars, interfacing with school officials, scheduling and creating protocols, curriculum, and behavior modification plans. I also trained Ava and her handler, Felix Varela High School’s first student/comfort dog team.

For more on the program, see my article in Barks From the Guild.