We understand that living with a pet who exhibits challenging behaviors can be stressful.
We're committed to supporting you and your furry friend on your journey towards a harmonious relationship.
If your dog is
lunging, growling, barking
trembling, hiding, pacing
scared of being alone
destroying things
If your cat is
hissing, growling, swatting
hiding, cowering, scratching things
peeing or pooping outside the litterbox
We will
Learn why they are doing what they are doing
Learn skills (both you and your pet)
Enrich their daily lives to meet their needs
So you can
Feel confident walking them or having guests
Know what to do when the unpredictable happens
Have fun with them
Enjoy your refreshed friendship
My mission is to empower you with the knowledge and skills to understand your animal's needs and navigate any obstacles together.
About the Trainer
Wise Whiskers is a queer-owned business. I am Sam Griffin. My pronouns are they/them/theirs. I live in Broomfield, Colorado with my wife and cat Sushi. Featured in the photo on the right is my late cat Charm who is still my best friend and my best teacher with his complicated physical and behavioral health. (He is also featured on my arm of cat tattoos).
If I'm not teaching people about the animals in their lives, I am likely teaching people about queerness and LGBTQ inclusivity, playing indie video games, puzzling, or embroidering.
Amongst all things animal behavior, I am passionate about educating people on queerness and how all systems of oppression are interlocked. Anti-oppression and animal welfare are connected! (For amazing information on this, follow Ginger and Kassidi and Rachel Forday).
FAQ:
Do you only work with dogs?
Not at all! I also love working with cats, especially those who are fearful or experiencing conflicts with other pets in the home. While my current certifications are specifically for dog behavior consulting and animal training, I am also an experienced and knowledgeable cat behavior consultant.
My pet does ____ behavior, can you help?
Probably! I have experience helping with a wide range of behaviors. I specialize in fear, anxiety, compulsive behaviors (e.g. spinning, light and shadowing chasing, excessive licking or chewing) and aggressive behaviors (eg. growling, lunging, biting). If I don't feel confident in my ability to support you, I will either refer you to another skilled consultant or collaborate with others through the process.
My pet has a bitten someone, will you see them?
Yes! I may recommend working with a Veterinary Behaviorist in conjunction with our sessions to help maximize our efficacy. I often recommend starting with virtual training to reduce everyone's stress.
What are your methods? Do you use e-collars or prong collars?
I utilize an enrichment framework and force free philosophy. My priorities are meeting everyone's needs, supporting learning of body language and species' needs, and helping You can read more I utilize an enrichment framework and force-free methodology. My priorities are meeting everyone's needs, supporting learning about body language and species-specific requirements, and helping you create a positive, cooperative relationship with your pet. I do not use e-collars or prong collars. You can read more about my approach on the about page.
How long will it take to see results?
Every pet and situation is unique, so the timeline for change varies. My goal is to help you get relief quickly while working towards life-long change towards improved quality of life for everyone. We may need to call in other teams to help us, like a veterinary specialist, as we continue to learn more together. While I cannot guarantee specific outcomes, I focus on providing you with effective tools, knowledge, and strategies to support your pet's progress and long-term well-being.
Can you help me if I'm not in Colorado?
Yes! I offer virtual consultations and training sessions, allowing us to work together no matter where you’re located. Remote sessions are highly effective and provide the same level of personalized guidance and support as in-person sessions. Sometimes it is even better than in-person because we are all comfortable in our homes and a stranger in the home (me) isn't stressing your or your pet out.
What other experiences do you have that help you as a behavior consultant?
My background in veterinary medicine gives me a deeper understanding of how health and behavior are interconnected. Many behavior challenges stem from or are influenced by underlying medical conditions, and my experience allows me to recognize when a veterinary assessment is needed. This knowledge helps me create well-rounded plans that consider both your pet’s physical and emotional well-being.
Beyond veterinary medicine, my education in gender studies and philosophy gives me a unique perspective on how all things are interconnected. These disciplines have taught me to approach problems holistically, consider diverse perspectives, and recognize the importance of meeting the needs of both pets and their people. Together, these experiences help me provide compassionate, effective, and inclusive support for families navigating behavior challenges.
Have other questions? Schedule your Free Discovery Call!
Certifications and Education
Learn about my certifications:
CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior Consultant Canine - Knowledge Assessed): Requires at least 300 hours of hands-on canine behavior modification and behavior consulting on fear, phobias, compulsive behaviors, anxiety and/or aggression. As of December 2022 there were 474 CBCC-KAs worldwide. Learn more here.
KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner): Focuses on both knowledge and skills in training dogs and other species. Learn more on the website.
Previously:
Elite Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional Cats and Dogs, Fear Free Certified Professional - Equine: "The Fear Free Veterinary Certification Program teaches veterinary healthcare professionals how to eliminate fear, anxiety, and stress for happier patients, more compliant clients, and safer veterinary healthcare teams." Learn more here. I am no longer paying for to be featured on the website but I am still proud of all I've learned.
Other Continuing Education:
Member of Pet Harmony Mentorship group that offers continuing education, community, and case studies.
Member of Feline Veterinary Medical Association (FVMA - Formally AAFP) to maintain up to date education on best feline practices.
Regularly watch and attend Veterinary Behaviorist (AVSAB) webinars and conferences.
This website uses cookies to use third party web site analytics that employ cookies to collect information concerning use of the website, by continuing on this website you agree to utlize cookies. However, you can disable cookies by changing your browser settings.