About us
A Trainer Who's Been in the Trenches
Rescue Me Dog Training was built on one belief: every dog deserves a patient, knowledgeable advocate in their corner.
My story
How Rescue Me Came to Be
The majority of dogs in shelters are there for behavioral issues, many of which are actually quite easy to address (with patience and consistency), and so i decided to learn from the best, get certified, and start helping dogs adjust from being in shelters, and of course, to keep them OUT of shelters in the first place.
That experience sent Dara down a years-long path of study, certification, and hands-on work with rescue organizations (Peggy Adams Animal Rescue in Palm Beach County, Fla, and the ASPCA). She trained with some of the best behaviorists in the country, earned her CPDT-KA and ABC dog training certifications, and became a Fear Free Certified Trainer — not because she needed the credentials, but because she wanted the knowledge, skills, and understanding.
Today, Rescue Me Dog Training serves families across the Asheville area who are navigating the beautiful, sometimes complicated reality of life with a new puppy or rescue dog. I truly passionate working with dogs and their people, and seeing the bonds and love blossom.
Meet Dara
Dara
Trainer & Founder, Rescue Me Dog Training
I've spent over a decade working with dogs of all kinds and backgrounds and the families who love them. My approach is rooted in behavioral science, built on patience, and always tailored to the individual dog in front of me. I believe that understanding why a dog behaves the way they do is the first step to helping them — and that the relationship between a dog and their person is worth every bit of effort it takes to build. Figuring out what motivates your dog, and how best to communicate with them will make your life with your dog one of the best, most enriching experiences.
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Fear Free Certified Trainer
- 10+ years working with dogs and rescue organizations
- Continuing education in applied animal behavior
How we work
The Rescue Me Training Philosophy
I think this quote sums it up; “Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” Orhan Pamuk, Author, “My Name is Red." We must learn to communicate clearly with our dog, exhibit patience at every step, and earn our dog's trust and willingness to follow our cues. Dogs are not belongings or robots who must obey our commands; they are our companions and if we treat them with kindness, compassion and respect, they will be one of the most loving, funny, and enriching aspects of our lives.
Fear-Free First
We never use punishment, intimidation, or force. A dog who is afraid cannot learn. Our first job is always to reduce fear and build a sense of safety.
Science-Backed Methods
Everything we do is grounded in behavioral science — positive reinforcement, classical conditioning, and systematic desensitization. Not trends. Not shortcuts.
The Whole Dog
We look at the full picture: history, environment, health, and daily routine. Behavior doesn't happen in a vacuum, and neither does lasting change.
Owner Education
The best training happens between sessions. We teach you to read your dog, respond effectively, and build the relationship that makes everything else possible.
Every rescue dog carries a story we may never fully know. Our job is to help them write a better next chapter — and to give the families who take them in the tools to make that possible.
— Dara, Founder
Ready to Start?
Book a free 20-minute consultation and let's talk about your dog.
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