Caitlin Lane, BA,CPDT-KA
Caitlin, like many animal trainers, raised and cared for a variety of animals throughout her youth. But it was during her senior year of college that she began volunteering with a non-profit animal rescue organization in Tucson, Arizona. During this time, she realized one of her greatest passions in life: working to save and improve the lives of animals. She chose a path that would combine her love for teaching and her passion for helping dogs by accepting a position as a group training instructor. During that time, Caitlin gained extensive, hands-on experience and spent countless hours researching and studying the science of animal behavior and learning theory. Hard work paid off when in 2007, she earned her professional title from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Not long after, Caitlin also became a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and a certified evaluator for the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen Program. In January 2008, Caitlin established her own training company in southern California, where in two years she helped hundreds of dogs become proud four-legged members of their families. These successes brought Caitlin to Austin, Texas in February 2010, where she could live and work in one of the largest dog-loving cities in the country.
Like many great teachers, Caitlin only continues to learn and grow in her profession. Regularly traveling throughout the country for animal behavior conferences, training seminars and workshops, she has received instruction and guidance from many of the world’s leading animal behavior and training professionals, including Dr. Ian Dunbar, Dr. Sophia Yin, Dr. Patricia McConnell, Karen Pryor and British dog trainer Victoria Stilwell of Animal Planet’s TV series, “It’s Me or the Dog.” Caitlin is also proud to promote future generations of educated dog trainers by mentoring students in an internship program with Animal Behavior College.
Caitlin’s primary goal is to help people create and maintain the most happy and healthy relationship with their dogs as possible, using “brain-based, not pain-based” training methods as their formula for success. She believes every dog deserves a special kind of canine education to become better behaved, lifelong companions in their homes, as well as to safely live and thrive within their community.
Caitlin currently resides in Austin, TX and shares her life with two talented rescue dogs, “Rosie,” a 6 year old Shepherd Mix and “Maggie,” a four year old Border Collie, and her two cats, “Wyatt” and “Josephine.” Caitlin is our head trainer here at Austin Dog Zone.
Laura Neiheisel, Founder of Austin Dog Zone
Laura, like Caitlin, had a passion for animals since childhood, particularly dogs. Laura began to rescue animals early in her life. As a teenager, Laura rescued a shepherd mix named Yogi who had severe food allergies and behavior issues. Yogi inspired Laura to educate herself and grow as a dog owner in all realms of care. The next dog that had a strong impact in her life died of cancer at the prime age of 8 years old. These dogs would forever leave a stamp in Laura’s mind and heart. These dogs helped her learn to become a better dog owner through education and experience.
The premature death of her family pet caused Laura to spend years researching nutrition and wellness in dogs. She strongly believed that many pet owners are not properly educated on the basics of dog ownership and was determined to help educate. This passion never left.
When Laura was in college, she worked for three years as a pet food nutritionist from 2006-2009 . She helped educate hundreds of pet owners on proper nutrition and care. Laura continues to spend countless hours researching the latest medical care, holistic health and nutrition for our beloved canines.
While Laura was living in Texas, she fell in love with the state and wanted to create a place of education for dog owners in Austin, TX that was both fun and informative. Austin Dog Zone was born! Laura currently resides in another state because of her husband’s job, but frequently travels back to Texas. Laura lives with her husband Travis, their rescue mutts, Chip and Zoey, and their two cats, Stewart and Duncan.
