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Please scroll down for credentials and resume.
How I got started...  I was always that kid. You know, the one who brought home stray kittens and fallen baby birds. I was writing research papers on animal welfare topics by the sixth grade and was a vegetarian by 16 (and still am). My family quickly realized that this was not a phase and always supported and nurtured my convictions with patience.
At graduation, I knew I wanted to work with animals, but did not want to be a veterinarian. So I majored in Biology for lack of a better idea. My senior year of undergrad I began walking dogs at the Adirondack Humane Society. I was hooked. I was hired after graduation and became Assistant Manager within a year. That little shelter opened a new world to me and allowed me the chance to learn every aspect of animal sheltering. I was supported, encouraged, and comforted and I was lucky to find my passion at such an early age. I quickly realized I was meant to work with companion animals and I discovered a field called "animal behavior." Craving more knowledge, I soon found and was accepted into a graduate program at Brown University that was perfect for me.
But there was this dog. We formed a close bond and he was always attached to my hip. He had been at the shelter for months and no one wanted him because of his "issues." So he came with me to Rhode Island.
Shadow was five and had been severely abused. He had this look in his eyes that would break your heart; like he had experienced things no animal should have to go through. He didn’t play, he didn’t enjoy human touch, and he constantly paced. He flinched at the slightest noise and cowered at the slightest movement. His spirit had been shattered a long time ago.
I sought help but at the time I was enrolled in a graduate program, had just moved to a new state, was a country girl now in a city, and could not afford the fees. After a year of deliberation and talking to veterinarians and behavior hotlines, I decided it was best to end his suffering. This picture is the only picture of the two of us (he hated to be held) and it was taken the day before I took Shadow for his final ride. My veterinarian and good friend made the process as easy as it could be and I thank him for that. As Shadow took his last breath, the only thing I could say was: “I’m sorry I couldn’t help you.”
If I knew then what I know now...
My experiences were the driving force behind my decision to provide consultation services to the public. I've been there, I know what it's like, and I want to help you. No one should have to make the decision I made, and no pet should have to live the life Shadow lived.
Credentials... (please scroll to bottom to see attached resume)
Education
Professional Experience
Certifications & Professional Memberships
Notable Presentations
Notable Publications & Articles
Notable Interviews & Contributions
Specialties...
 I have a particular affinity toward animal shelters and shelter pets. Volunteering in one changed my life, and there's something so gratifying about seeing an adopted animal happy in their new home. I love working with homeless animals, assisting someone in finding their new best friend, and seeing the relief in a family's face when they realize they don't have to give their pet away. I also love working with shelter professionals. It takes a special person to work - and last - in an animal shelter and I am honored to help them in their professional journey.
I specialize in bully breeds and created Rhode Island's first bully breed training class, which has been dulicated by many trainers across the country. I am also certified in cat and dog behavior consultation.
My family...
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Katenna's Bio |
