About Us
Hi, my name is Sammy Podolin and I am the owner & trainer at Integrative Canine Coaching. Growing up with five dogs in my home, I quickly developed an enthusiasm for acquiring my own animals, ranging from the smallest mice to the largest horses. Regardless of their size, I instinctually formed a connection with each one, and those experiences ultimately shaped my affinity for all creatures.
In 2012, at the age of 14, I encountered my first mentor—a highly skilled equine bodyworker. Having already spent seven years immersed in the world of horseback riding, meeting her felt like finding the last piece of my puzzle. She introduced me to the magic of bodywork and led me to my first horse, a 12 year old Thoroughbred named Levi. Naturally, from that point on, I centered my entire life around Levi. I became certified in equine bodywork, began learning about holistic nutrition, and continued developing my handling & riding skills. Despite the challenges along the way, my partnership with Levi thrived.
Training enabled me to be creative and form deeper relationships with animals. My skill set evolved from trick training, to obedience, to behavior modification when I rescued my first canine companion, a cattle dog mix named Eden, in 2015. While Eden had an incredible way of being friendly and gentle with all humans, on many occasions, she got into full blown fights with other dogs. She had all the tenacity you could expect from a cattle dog! However, I knew there had to be something I could do to help her peacefully co-exist with other dogs. Through training, Eden taught me a lot about socialization and dog psychology. More specifically, she showed me where I had gone completely and utterly wrong. During the process of rehabbing Eden, I grew fascinated with diet and the part it plays in our dog's behaviors. This inspired me to study canine nutrition and become extremely passionate about paying attention to what we are feeding our pets.
This brings us to the here and now! After two and a half years working for a large dog training franchise, I realized I needed to start my own business if I wanted to practice holistic training. Through my work at Integrative Canine Coaching, I can completely customize training for people and their dogs. I can use my knowledge in behavior, nutrition, and biomechanics to decide how to address each issue that may come up, so that you can have a meaningful and healthy relationship with your dog!
Education
IN PROGRESS: Certification in Canine Massage- Holistic Animal Studies
Learn to Lead Workshop - Cheri Wulff Lucas, 2024
Student of the Dog Workshop - Oregon Tails, 2024
Top Dog Certified Trainer from a National Dog Training Franchise, 2023
Completion of the Canine Behavior and Enrichment course- Animal Behavior Institute (ABI), 2022
Completion of the Animal Minds and Emotions Course- ABI, 2022.
Pet Food Nutrition Certification- Dogs Naturally Pro, 2019
Certification in Equine Bodywork-Art of Equine Massage and Bodywork, 2017