Ursula loves working with all animals, but especially helping pet owners understand their dog’s body language and the science of how dogs learn!

Originally from Philadelphia, Ursula grew up with cats and chickens (that she trained!). In middle school she convinced her parents to wake up early and volunteer at a shelter, where they adopted their special rescue, Tia. Taking Tia to puppy classes (just like Fetch the Leash!) sparked her interest in training. In high school, Ursula volunteered at a non-profit that trained service dogs for children with disabilities. Eventually, they hired her as a trainer where she enjoyed instructing classes and workshops for adults and children, and working with fosters on behavior concerns. Ursula also interned and volunteered for the PennVet Working Dog Center, where she learned more about training high-drive dogs, scent detection and search & rescue K9s, and the importance of fitness and injury prevention regimens.

Ursula graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in Psychological Science and Political Science, and a minor in Animal Science. In 2022, she became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the CCPDT. Ursula guest lectures at UVM and in the community about animal behavior and training, and recently completed a research project training feral donkeys in cooperative care procedures, one of her passions. Ursula’s favorite fact is that all species, humans alike, learn through the same principles!

Ursula believes we’re all lifelong learners, and enjoys furthering her education through conferences on the newest research and best humane, science-based practices. When not working with dogs, Ursula loves going to trivia, reading, and traveling!