Deborah Rightmyer CBCC-KA
Hi, I'm Debby RightmyerCBCC-KA, FFCP
My interest in dog behavior started many years ago when I was visiting a friend who had several dogs and had bred their pug. Watching the group dynamic among the dogs was fascinating. I already had an interest in animal behavior and had studied many different species taking an ethological approach.
Shortly after that, hurricane Katrina happened and I found myself wanting to help displaced animals so I started volunteering at an animal shelter.
I have always had a strong interest in wildlife, particularly various canines. I began touring various facilities & attending lectures, classes, and workshops. Working with various types of wild animals strengthened my interest in dog behavior & training.
At the same time I found myself becoming heavily involved with dogs that had behavioral issues preventing them from becoming adopted, or significantly effecting their potential.
I found it very rewarding to help these dogs find their forever home, or at least improve their quality of life with added enrichment, training exercises, forming relationships with them, and teaching others to handle them in a beneficial manner.
So many of the shelter dogs I worked with became my second family and we grew together, learning from each other.
My own personal dog (since passed) was a wonderful companion. When I adopted her she came with a few behavioral issues that were easily modified and managed, this gave me more inspiration to help other dogs and owners that needed a little fine tuning to be their best. I was already involved with shelter dogs with behavioral issues and made a point to educate myself as much as I could with any and everything dog related.
When I am not working with pet dogs, I enjoy working and interacting with other canines and wildlife. I have volunteered and attended professional seminars at numerous wildlife facilities and sanctuaries. Learning about different handling and husbandry practices are always of interest. Enrichment for captive animals is another strong passion for myself, as well as creative training exercises for a variety of species. Some of my best teachers have been of the wild side!
Sometimes being there to rub a belly or catch upside down wolves and foxes is the best part of my day.
