Mary has spent a lifetime working with dogs and their owners. She began training dogs as a teenager through the 4-H dog program. Working with her family's German shepherd, Misty, Mary fell in love with dog-training competition. Her interest in training led her to compete and title at some of the highest levels in obedience, conformation, agility, and other dog sports.

Mary's personal dogs have been on multiple demo teams, exhibiting their tricks at store openings and events around the Southwest. They have been featured in television ads, newscasts, and videos. Mary's dogs were also photographed for use on product packaging and advertisements. For nearly 30 years, Mary has taught private lessons and all levels of group classes in obedience, rally, conformation, and agility in Phoenix, AZ, Seattle, WA and now in Kansas. She served as a 4H dog leader, and ran a Kids and Dogs summer camp in the Seattle area. Mary has worked with a wide range of canine behavioral challenges including shyness, reactivity, aggression, and separation anxiety.

Mary graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy in 2015 and is a KPA Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP). She is also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge and Skills Assessed (CPDT-KSA). This certification demonstrates that she has mastered humane, science-based dog training practices through experience, knowledge and practical skills. Mary completed bachelor's degrees in Journalism (advertising) and Art (graphic design) from Kansas State University and has enjoyed a long career as a graphic designer in communications and marketing. 

To maintain our certifications, dog trainers are expected to complete yearly continuing education. Mary believes in life-long learning and professional development. Over the years, she has attended more seminars and workshops than she can remember. She has attended Clicker Expo. She has completed the KPA Puppy Start Right Program. She has studied Behavior Adjustment Training through Grisha Stewart's Animal Building Blocks Academy and is a professional member of grishastewart.com. She practices Diane Garrod's Canine Emotional Detox - Stress Relief for dogs. Mary has been an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator since 2001. She is a "Dog More With Your Dog!" Certified Trick Dog Instructor and loves to teach trick dog classes. She's a Cooperative Paws Service Dog Coach, a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, the HEARTland Positive Dog Training Alliance and is a Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). She is also a Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP-trainer).

To support and encourage responsible preservation breeding of the the dog breeds that are part of her family, Mary is a board member of the Hokkaido Association of North America (HANA), a member of the National Shiba Club of America (NSCA) and the Australian Shepherd Club of America (ASCA).