Christie graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Natural Science with a Bachelor’s in Zoology and a Concentration in Animal Behavior and Neurobiology in December 1998. After graduating, Christie attended North State Canine Academy in Sanford, North Carolina (February 1999) where she received her Master Trainer’s Certification in Professional Pet Obedience and Behavior Modification. Her first National Certification occurred in 2005, when she passed a standardized exam for professional dog training and most recently, Christie passed a standardized exam specific to clinical behavior consultation and behavior modification. She stays current on science based principals through extensive continuing education (partial list below).

Christie worked with Kern Road Veterinary Clinic in Fowlerville, MI from May of 1997 to March 2008 where she created the behavior programs that led to clinical referrals from other Mid-Michigan Veterinarians. In March 2008, Christie moved to Cookeville, TN to begin working with her then boyfriend (now husband) at Thunderhawk Canine. In the time since, they have provided numerous full patrol K9s to various departments (including Tennessee Highway Patrol). Christie has established relationships with most of the Upper Cumberland Veterinary hospitals, allowing her to assist in an integrated approached to your pet’s behavior issues. She has created the obedience and training programs that have worked for your neighbors for over a decade, and she has coached new trainers in the industry – helping them develop from first time leash holders to Nationally Certified professionals

Christie’s diversified training experience, coupled with a strong veterinary technical assistance background, makes her well suited to address your pet’s every need.