Credentials and Experience
Laura Hentges, CPDT-KA
Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant
My dogs have always been my greatest joy! After more than 20 years in corporate marketing, I decided to pursue my career working with dogs to help others feel that same joy. I immersed myself in all things dog working as a dog walker, working in a dog daycare, volunteering walking and training dogs at Seattle Humane and taking classes to learn about dog behavior, training and nutrition.
I earned certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers® (CCPDT®), an independent council that manages accreditation and pursues future development of canine professionals worldwide. I hold the title Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and must earn continuing education credits in dog behavior and training to maintain my certification.
I am an advocate for animal welfare and rescue, particularly for senior dogs. I am a guest blogger and volunteer for Old Dog Haven, and currently volunteer at the Seattle Animal Shelter.
Who Is Cassie?
I didn’t know it at the time, but Cassie was a dog I needed more than she needed me. That made her my first heart dog. I adopted Cassie at a local shelter as an adolescent and we were inseparable until she died at the age of 12. As Cassie grew older, I adjusted my life to accommodate her changing needs so there would be nothing preventing her from keeping her zest for life.
Ultimately, her old body failed her, but her spirit lives on in my heart. She brought me joy every single day and left my world better than she found it. I’ve always loved dogs, but because of Cassie, I developed my love of old dogs. Even though it’s been years since her death, and I’ve had several other wonderful dogs come and go from my life, I knew one day I would start my own business and name it in her honor.