Michele has worked as a Professional Dog Trainer for over 20 years.  Prior to being swept up in the Nose Work craze, she worked mostly in behavior modification.  In 2009, Michele was among the first dog trainers in New England to become involved in the National Association of Canine Scent Work’s (NACSW) sport of K9 Nose Work.  She currently works with the NACSW as a Certifying Official, Trial Representative, trial host, and competitor.  It’s no secret the sport has skyrocketed, and Michele’s intense schedule of regular weekly classes, private lessons, specialty clinics, and new online virtual programs show it.  In addition to having the honor of teaching at the National K9NW Camps she owns “The Dog’s PACE” out of Massachusetts, a school specializing in K9 Nose Work.

Personally, Michele has taken 3 of her rescue dogs to the Elite level, and competed in the 2015 and 2017 NACSW nationals with her 12 lb Chihuahua/Terrier mix named Hemi.  Currently she is owned and loved by two dogs: Chaser, a German Shepherd and Cannoli, a Belgian Tervuren.  While Cannoli is just beginning her journey of carefully laying a solid foundation, Chaser is happily enjoying his time training for his NW3 Elite title. 

Although her professional and personal interests have led Michele to train in a variety of dog sports, Michele’s fondness for Nose Work comes from the tremendous benefits it offers to all dogs.  From confidence building, bonding, mental stimulation, and pure enjoyment, this sport offers so much to both dog and handler.