The Shore Dogs Unleashed Difference

Our Philosophy

Behavior Is Communication.

Behavior doesn't happen in a vacuum.

Every behavior has a reason, even when that reason isn't immediately obvious. Rather than asking, "How do we stop this behavior?" I first ask, "What is this behavior telling us?"

At Shore Dogs Unleashed, I believe meaningful behavior change begins with understanding. By looking at the whole picture—the dog, the environment, and the people involved—we can identify the factors influencing behavior and develop thoughtful, individualized solutions. Sometimes that solution includes training. Other times it may involve management, enrichment, environmental changes, education, or simply giving a dog the time and support they need to adjust.

Training teaches skills. Understanding solves problems.

That's why every recommendation is guided by the goal of creating a shared language, strengthening trust, and helping dogs and their people thrive together.

Meet Michele

Hi, I'm Michele, founder of Shore Dogs Unleashed.

My passion has always been helping people better understand their dogs. While training can teach new skills, I believe lasting behavior change comes from understanding why behavior happens in the first place. Every dog has their own personality, learning style, experiences, and needs, which is why I approach every dog—and every family—as an individual.

My background combines science-based dog training with extensive experience in animal behavior and animal welfare. I've worked with hundreds of dogs of all ages, breeds, and behavioral challenges, from raising confident puppies to helping dogs struggling with fear, anxiety, reactivity, and other complex behaviors. My years in animal shelter leadership reinforced one lesson above all else: behavior is communication. By understanding what a dog is experiencing, we can create thoughtful, compassionate solutions that strengthen the relationship between dogs and the people who love them.

At Shore Dogs Unleashed, I use positive, force-free methods rooted in behavioral science to help dogs learn with confidence rather than fear. My goal isn't simply to teach obedience—it's to help you create a shared language with your dog so you can navigate everyday life together with greater understanding, trust, and confidence.

Whether you're welcoming a new puppy, building everyday life skills, working through behavior challenges, or preparing your dog for cooperative veterinary and grooming care, I'm here to help you and your dog build the relationship you've always wanted.

Because when we understand our dogs, we don't just change behavior—we change lives.

Education & Credentials

Education

Ph.D., Rutgers University

Professional Certifications

Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer (VSA-CDT)
Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Foundations
Fear Free Shelter Program
Dog Bite Prevention Educator
Advanced Animal Control Officer (NJ)

Advanced Behavior Certifications

Trish McMillan Shelter Dog Behavior Mentorship
Trish McMillan Cat Behavior Mentorship

Professional Experience

Michele has served in leadership roles in animal shelter operations, behavior, adoption, and population management, working with hundreds of dogs ranging from young puppies to complex behavioral cases. Her experience combines companion dog training with years of practical behavior work in animal welfare.

The Story Behind the Logo

Meet Skye

Every logo tells a story, and the story behind Shore Dogs Unleashed begins with a remarkable retired police Bloodhound named Skye.

Bloodhounds are extraordinary dogs. Unlike many working breeds, they track by scent rather than sight, often following trails through places they can't see. To do that successfully, they rely on an exceptional partnership with their handler—one built on trust, communication, and confidence.

Watching Skye work reinforced something I now see in every dog I meet: behavior is rooted in communication, and trust is the foundation of every successful partnership.

That lesson forever changed the way I view dog training. The strongest relationships aren't built through force or control—they're built through understanding. When dogs feel safe, understood, and supported, they're capable of incredible things.

That philosophy became the foundation of Shore Dogs Unleashed: problem solving through understanding. Every dog has a story. Every behavior has meaning. My goal is to help you create a shared language with your dog so you can build a relationship founded on trust, confidence, and lasting understanding.

Skye's legacy lives on not only in the Shore Dogs Unleashed logo, but in the philosophy that guides every dog, every family, and every relationship I'm privileged to be part of.