Mo Lynch Vashel
CPDT-KA, CSDC, CBA
The Canine Life Coach
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A Bit About Me
From the moment I raised and trained my first guide dog at just 10 years old, I knew my life’s passion was working with dogs. With over two decades of experience in animal training and care, I’ve built a career centered on improving the lives of animals and their human companions through science-based, positive reinforcement techniques.
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As a California State Licensed Guide Dog Instructor, I’ve trained and paired over 70 dogs with visually impaired individuals, achieving multiple award-winning graduations. At Early Alert Canines, I developed a comprehensive training curriculum for Type I diabetic alert dogs, supporting both clients and volunteers as the Director of Behavior and Training.
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My expertise spans diverse environments, from exotic animal care and behavior modification at Keepers of the Wild in Arizona to volunteer dog training and adoption counseling with TVAR Animal Rescue. I also served as Senior Trainer and Curriculum Developer at Wag It Better Dog Boutique, leading over 500 training sessions and helping expand the business.
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What makes me different? I create an inclusive and welcoming environment where clients and their dogs feel valued and empowered. My outgoing personality and deep expertise allow me to connect easily with people and tailor training methods to their unique needs. Empathy, integrity, and inclusivity are at the heart of everything I do.
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Certified in canine behavior and training, I bring innovation, compassion, and proven results to every challenge. Whether working with guide dogs, rescue animals, or exotic species, I’m committed to helping dogs and their humans build stronger, happier relationships—one wagging tail at a time.
Work Experience
2008 - Present
2021 - 2024
2011-2013
1997-2004
The Canine Life Coach - Owner and Founder
As the owner and lead trainer at The Canine Life Coach, I design and implement personalized, in-home dog training programs using positive reinforcement techniques. Certified in canine behavior and training, I have successfully improved the lives of over 1,000 dogs and their families. Recognized as a top trainer by the East Bay Times and featured on NPR Marketplace, I’ve established a reputation as an expert in behavior modification and emotional well-being for dogs. My innovative methods, strong communication skills, and dedication to results help families build lasting, rewarding relationships with their pets.
Senior Instructor and Curriculum Developer - Wag It Better Dog Boutique
As Senior Instructor and Curriculum Developer at Wag It Better Dog Boutique, I led over 500 training sessions, including group classes, private lessons, and customized programs such as Real Life training, Sniffology (intro to nose work), and Positive Reinforcement Off-Leash Classes. I developed and implemented science-based, positive-reward training techniques to address behavioral challenges, aggression, and canine development, while also collaborating with veterinarians to support high-anxiety dogs through cooperative care. My contributions to business development and community outreach helped establish a second local location, furthering our mission to support dogs and their families with effective and compassionate training solutions.
Director of Training – Early Alert Canines, Concord, CA
As Director of Training for Early Alert Canines, I was responsible for the full training lifecycle of diabetic alert dogs, from evaluation and selection to instruction of both canines and their human partners. I developed comprehensive curriculum and trained clients, volunteers, and canines to work as effective teams. My leadership ensured the success of numerous service dog placements, providing life-changing support to individuals managing Type I diabetes.
California State Licensed Guide Dog Instructor – Guide Dogs for the Blind, San Rafael, CA
At Guide Dogs for the Blind, I completed a rigorous three-year apprenticeship and went on to train and place over 70 guide dogs with visually impaired individuals. Thirteen of those teams achieved award-winning graduations. I also mentored and managed instructors-in-training, ensuring high standards across all levels of the guide dog program. This foundational role sharpened my expertise in canine behavior, advanced training techniques, and student mentorship.
CERTIFICATIONS
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) | Certified Fear Free Animal Trainer | Canine Behavior Academy, Marin Humane Society, Trish King (CBA) | Pet First Aid and CPR Certified | Certified Service Dog Coach (CSDC), Cooperative Paws LLC - Veronica Sanchez M Ed. CABC, CPDT-KA | Tellington TTouch Trained | C.L.A.S.S Instructor Certified, American Pet Dog Trainers Association | AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator & Fit Dog Level 1 and Level 2 | Certified Drink With Your Dog Instructor
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PROFESSIONAL COURSES AND SEMINARS
Aggression in Dogs Master Course, Michael Schikashio | Success Under All Conditions with Ken Ramirez at the Karen Pryor Ranch | Pet Harmony Mentorship Program Allie Bender, Emily Strong & Ellen Yoakum | Shelter Behavior and Safety, Sue Sternberg | Nosework for Interior and Exterior Searching, Fenzi Dog Sport Academy, Stacy Barnett | Cross-Over Clicker, Gail Fisher | Master’s Class on Ethological Contributions to Aggression in Dogs, Kim Brophey | Master’s Class on Animal Behavior and Brain Structure, Temple Gradin | Unchased!
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
International Association of Animal Behaviors (IAABC) | Society for Anthrozoology
Mission.
To provide a fun and effective training experience for dogs of all ages, using positive reinforcement and mutual respect. We believe in training without punishment, grounded in proven behavioral science.
By recognizing the unique personalities and learning styles of both dogs and their owners, we create customized, one-on-one training plans.We are proud to champion the cause of a positive, non-violent future for dog training.
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SIT. STAY. LOVE.
Vision.
A world where dogs and their humans coexist in harmony, guided by mutual respect and clear communication. We envision a future where both dogs and humans can live their best lives together.​
Values.
Playful: Embracing a lighthearted approach to the serious nature of dog training. We challenge traditional methods based on dominance theory by adopting an alternative, more positive style.
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Resilient: Life is full of setbacks. We address them and keep moving forward and building stronger bonds between the dog and human.
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Constant Learner: Firmly committed to a lifetime of learning through continuing education on innovative ways to build trust, respect and love.