Meet The Team
at ChattDog Trainer
ChattDog Trainer: R+ Dog and Puppy Training for Chattanooga,TN Pet-Parents
Heidi Casey, PMCT1
Owner, Trainer
Hi I’m Heidi!
I love adventuring, and doing it with my dog Smokey has brought me so much joy! I want you to know the joy that comes from having a dog whom you can trust, who will listen, and who understands you. It takes some skill, some patience, and yes a little bit of science and education to get there, but it can be done!
I have the education- I'm a Pat Miller Certified Trainer (PMCT1) and practice positive reinforcement, force-free training. I understand dogs and the science behind how they think. And I've got some people skills (let's be honest, not all dog people are great people people!) I have been an athletic coach, have a B.S. in Journalism and an A.A. in Sign Language Interpreting - I love communicating clearly with people.
Let's do this journey together!
When you choose to train with ChattDog Trainer I promise:
That we will treat you and your dog as individuals
We will never use force, fear, or pain to train your dog
We are committed to reward-based training and continual education
We will listen to your goals, and not blame you or your dog for the struggles you are having
We will not force you or your dog to do something that makes your feel uncomfortable
We can’t wait to meet you and your furry best friend!
-Heidi
Meet My Best Friend - Smokey
Smokey is part of the ChattDog team. All trail dogs initially have a test run with Smokey before they join us for Trail Adventures. He is both excellent with new dogs and very trail savvy. If he gives his okay, we’ll introduce your dog to the trail teams. In addition to helping us on the trail, he also helps reactive dogs and puppies learn how to interact with a calm dog during training sessions. He earns his kibble!
The Trail Team
Steve Smart
Steve is a former financial advisor now living his dream hiking the trails around Chattanooga with loyal, dedicated, happy dogs! Steve is a skilled outdoorsman, an expert at finding remote trails for the dogs to run, a mountain biker and horseman. Dogs have a blast with Steve!
Caleb Casey
Caleb is an outstanding runner and is perfect for those dogs who want to run fast and far! This former cross country standout graduated from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga and now works as an engineer for the county. Dogs are happily worn out under Caleb’s care!
Caleb Casey
Caleb is an outstanding runner and is perfect for those dogs who want to run fast and far! This former cross country standout graduated from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga and now works as an engineer for the county. Dogs are happily worn out under Caleb’s care!
Our Mission
We are committed to helping Chattanooga area dogs and guardians learn to communicate effectively, respect each other and live in harmony through the use of positive reinforcement training methodologies.
We believe that all dogs have the ability to become the companion you’re looking for, all they need is patience, understanding and compassion. We are here to provide that to both them and you, so you can build the bond that you both deserve while accomplishing your training goals.
How To Choose a Dog Trainer
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior states:
“The techniques that a trainer uses can strongly affect how you interact with your dog for years to come. Therefore it is very important to choose your trainer wisely.”
They recommend the following guidelines:
Choose a Dog Trainer who…
Uses reward-based training
Is a good teacher
Is committed to continual education
Is respectful
Helps you feel comfortable
Offers no guarantees
Is willing to consult with other professionals for problem behaviors
And avoid any dog trainer who advocates methods of physical force
ChattDog Trainer’s
Position on Inclusivity
At ChattDog Trainer we’ll not only respect each dog's unique selves and abilities, but we welcome guardians of every age, race, gender, ability, neurodivergent status and beyond as well. We promise that you will always be treated with kindness and respect and we will always work with you to accomplish your training goals!
Are You Ready
to Start this Awesome Journey?
"It has made our life with Sadie about love and fun rather than frustration."
