Hi, I’m Joanna Buckheit
I developed my passion for dog training during my time as a Wildlife Biologist conducting Spotted Owl Surveys across Northern California.
I experienced firsthand the incredible benefits of having a well-trained dog at my side every day at work. This deepened my appreciation for the bond that comes from literally working with a working dog. That journey inspired me to change careers entirely and dedicate myself to helping others experience the same joy.
As a professional trainer, I love to help people strengthen their relationships with their dogs through training. I believe dogs should enrich our lives, and with the right guidance, everyone can enjoy their furry friendships even more. A dog’s job is to be a good dog, and I’m here to help you achieve that.
Silviculture, Forestry & Fire SUpport
I believe in being well rounded.
As an individual, one should remain curious and pursue constructive development in three aspects: the mind, the body, and the soul.
Wildlife and Fisheries
For 4 years I conducted wildlife and fisheries surveys as a technician and then as a field biologist for the Forest Service, Mendocino Redwood Company, and some natural resource consultant companies.
While Spotted Owls was my specialty, I was able to work with and survey for many other animals including: Goshawk, Osprey, Barred Owl, Peregrine Falcon, Pond Turtle, Yellow-legged Frog, Beaver, Sandhill Crane, Fisher, Long-toed Salamander, and more. I even did my fair share of wildlife photography during my adventures across NorCal.
Working alone in the woods inspired me to pursue my lifelong dream of having a working dog.
That dream became a reality with Gaara, who quickly became my right-hand and faithful companion. He has saved my life many times as my personal protection dog when we were deep in the Redwood Forests.
Together, Gaara and I pursued many things including protection work, scent detection for endangered species surveys, herding, and hunting anything from bullfrogs to pest control in a ranch environment.
