Stef
Stef Human, KPA CTP, CPDT-KA, has always been passionate about animals and their welfare. As a child, she would bring home any stray animal she found, only to have her exasperated mother insist she take them to the local SPCA.
Today Stef helps give puppies and young dogs the best possible start in life at Cowichan Canine, thereby reducing the number of dogs at risk of being surrendered by their owners because of behavioural problems.
Stef has long been active in animal rescue and welfare, and has worked in veterinary hospitals and with racehorses; volunteered as a horse handler for therapeutic riding organizations, and worked with rescue organizations and shelters in various countries. She started a much-needed SPCA on a small Caribbean island, organized spay & neuter clinics, and did welfare education for youth at schools and clubs.
Her own challenges as the owner of a rescue dog led Stef to Cowichan Canine and a new career as instructor. A graduate of the Dog Trainer Professional Program of the Karen Pryor Academy and the Puppy Start Right for Instructors, Stef continues her education with Clicker Expo conferences and other education courses. “There is just so much to learn,” she says.
Thanks to all Cowichan Canine staff annually fulfilling the necessary requirements, Cowichan Canine maintains its accreditation under the BC SPCA's AnimalKind accreditation programme.
Stef currently offers Puppy Start Right classes, where puppies are exposed to positive socialisation opportunities, which can help to “inoculate” them against future behavioural issues. She also offers Foundation classes and private lessons for puppy owners.
Stef believes in positive reinforcement methods because they strengthen the bond between dog and handler. “These methods work because they reward the animal for behaviour that we would prefer to see, rather than punish them for unwanted behaviour,” she says.
Stef feels strongly about owners practicing with their dogs and is known for always having tips or solutions for owners to try. She has even been known to help a client make curtains to shield their dog from barking triggers through the window.
Stef shares her home with husband Deon and three rescue dogs – Bindi, Daisy and Tulip - and is a keen gardener and outdoor enthusiast. Stef regularly indulges her colleagues at Cowichan Canine with her exquisite baking.
I don’t know if you remember Poppy but she was the small terrier that I did private training one on one to help her get over her fear of dogs. Well she is 13 months old now and loves meeting new dogs, she can’t get enough of it. She goes to doggie daycare on Saturdays because I have a long work shift and loves going there so she can play with all the other dogs.
Anyways, I thought you would like to hear a good success story!
Susy Lamb with Poppy
BC
Wanting to be new dog owners, we got 16 weeks old puppy, named Pepper.
Shortly after bringing Pepper home, she was attacked by much larger dog and
seriously injured.
After consultation with the vet, we came to understanding that Pepper maybe
traumatized by the horrible experience.
We soon realized this was the case, Pepper was scared of other dogs and continuously barking.
We contacted Lisbeth at Cowichan canine, who came to our home and gave us one on one lessons.
We found Lisbeth to be very knowledgeable , professional and patient with novice dog owners.
Lisbeth invited us to the Cowichan canine facility, where we were introduced to the staff and
other dog owners.
Being so impressed with the dedication of the staff and variety of classes, we enrolled Pepper
immediately.
Whenever we have any concerns or questions, Lisbeth is always quick to respond.
Pepper became much calmer dog after reactive dog classes, so I am enjoying walking with her.
To Lisbeth and the stuff, Thank you for everything.
Natsuko and Gary Chaperon
Duncan, BC
