Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)-Rachel Ralston

In this blog I am spotlighting a young woman by the name of Rachel Ralston, CPDT-KA who is enthusiastic, kind hearted, and making an impact in many peoples lives.

Tell me your name and a little bit about yourself professionally?

My name is Rachel Ralston. In 2021, my dog, Finley, and I earned an Associate of Applied Science in Animal Assisted Therapy from Hocking College.

Can you please tell the readers a little bit about your dog?

Finley is a three year old labradoodle, and my unofficial emotional support animal. He trained with me at Hocking for two years where he learned obedience, service tasks, therapy tasks, and sports like agility. His favorite thing to do is jump and his favorite snack is cucumber slices. Training Finley has helped me learn how to overcome behavioral issues in dogs, like fear and anxiety. He has taught me the importance of patience and persistence.

What is your role?

After graduation, I was asked to stay and teach some of the classes for my program as an adjunct professor. I also became a certified dog trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), allowing me to add the letters, CPDT-KA, after my name. After spending a semester teaching Animal Assisted Therapy classes, I was called to start walking down a different path. I moved back to Tuscarawas county in January and started working at the Southern District Court in Uhrichsville. When I’m not working, I’m usually on a stage or preparing for a competition. I have been performing in musicals since the age of nine and competing in pageants from the age of 14.

I work at Tuscarawas County Court in Uhrichville and I am the traffic clerk. I have also done some dog training on the side. You can keep up with my K9 adventures on my Facebook or Instagram: Rachel Ralston Pet Consulting. I enjoy being able to advise people on best K9 practices, whether it’s obedience training, lifestyle/behavioral evaluations, learning fun tricks, or just troubleshooting different issues.

What is next for you?

I am currently a student at Franklin University, majoring in Exercise Science. I plan on pursuing a Master’s or Doctorate in Occupational Therapy after graduation. I want to be able to help people take control of their lives by providing creative, dynamic solutions to their everyday struggles. By incorporating animals into my practice, I will be able to give individuals a different kind of motivation that only dogs can provide.

What would you recommend to someone who is considering going into a role like yours?

Here is a piece of advice that I would give someone who is wanting to pursue the same ventures as I have: You create your own opportunities. If there's something you are interested in, ask questions, talk to people, network, and then take action. Set goals, make vision boards, listen to podcast, meditate, do whatever it takes to get yourself motivated. Make as many connections as you can and see where they take you. Don't limit yourself to a one lane road. Jump on the highway, and get off at the most exciting exit just to see where you end up.

Please highlight some of the events/projects/services you are involved with?

I currently hold the title of Miss Dreamsville Volunteer and will be competing at the Miss Ohio Volunteer Pageant on September 17th. I am passionate about raising funds for veterans organizations, specifically, ones that train service dogs. As a dog trainer, I know what a difference these dogs can make in the lives of veterans and I love supporting organizations that are doing things the right way.

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How can people reach you with questions or find out more about services you offer?

If you would like to connect with me, you can find me on Facebook or Instagram:

Rachel Ralston Pet Consulting

Miss Dreamsville Volunteer