Debbie Winkler, CABC, CPDT, whose career spans more than 20 years, is well known for her commitment to using operant conditioning, with a strong emphasis on positive reinforcement, to train or change problem behaviors in animals. With an extensive background in training and behavior, Debbie works with many species
As co-founder and training director of Dog Ears and Paws Inc, Debbie trains assistance and therapy animals for adults and children with special needs. She is also the training director of H.E.A.L., a pilot program for at risk youth.
Dog Ears and Paws is one of the first organizations of its kind to use only motivational training for assistance animals, mandate enrichment for their assistance animals, and train owner acquired dogs for assistance work.
Debbie served on the APDT Educational Committee, which helped to create the first national certification for pet dog trainers, has also served on Baltimores Viscious Dog Hearing Board, and is an expert witness regarding animal bite cases in the state of Maryland
Debbie is SATS certified and the current vice president of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and teaches interns in animal behavior and training.