Haven dog trainers have a wild side

Haven Humane Society announces the addition of their newest dog trainer, Krista Korenko.

Korenko comes to Haven with degrees in animal husbandry, equine studies and exotic animal training and management, where she learned clicker training. She has used this method to train celebrity animals for movies and television.

"I have had the privilege of using clicker training while working with many different species ranging from canines to African lions," Korenko said. "Animal training and behavior has been the primary focus of my education and background, as well as being a hobby of mine."

Korenko's most recent experience is clicker training wild animals at Animal Ark Wildlife Sanctuary in Nevada where she clicker trained tigers, bears, and wolves to make examinations easier and to help them work off their energy and stress. While at Animal Ark, Korenko taught the other staff in this positive reward training method.

Korenko is teaming up with trainer "Woody" Woodland who joined Haven's staff this year after donating much of his time as a volunteer trainer.

Woodland's interest in training animals started when he was stationed at RAF Chicksands near Bedford, England.

While there, he started working towards his Horse Master's certificate from the British Horse Society.

"The care and compassion shown by the British towards their animals had a huge impact on my thinking and started me on the path of positive reinforcement. Encouraging the sort of behavior you desire by rewarding the animal instead of forcing it became part of my training philosophy," says Woodland.

Woodland later moved to Florida to work for Theater of the Sea where he clicker trained dolphins and sea lions for performances.

Clicker training helps resolve the common behavior problems such as bolting out the front door, jumping on guests and leash pulling during walks. It is also used to enforce good behaviors such as sit, stay and down.

Haven Humane Society is currently offering clicker training classes on an individual basis and will resume group classes in September. To arrange a private session, call 241-1653.