Tobi-Dawne (TD) Yandt is better known to some, as DogMa, a handle that fits her well. Throughout the years she's been groomer, breeder, handler, trainer, writer, photographer, but her most important role is that of care taker and provider for her own Canine Family.
In all things, it has always been TD's goal to positively impact the lives of animals and their families. Through her writing, educational seminars, classes, and one-on-one training it seems she is meeting that goal.
As a writer and trainer, TD strongly advocates hands-off methods of communication. There is never any reason to hit, pop, choke, roll, push, or pull a dog. The majority of badly behaved dogs aren't to be blamed, rather it's the bad habits, and poor communication skills of their humans.
"If we only take the time to understand canine language, and give them the freedom to communicate with us, we'd instantly see a world of difference in what most guardians perceive as bad behavior. It's important to understand and validate their attempts at communication instead of punishing, and ultimately extinguishing, their language."
TD's first manuscript was purchased by Kennel Club Books Inc. in 2004. A step by step guide to clicker training the family dog - involving the entire family. Contact KCB (adeprisco@kennelclubbooks.com) to find out when it will be available at a book store near you.
Having enjoyed the process of writing her first manuscript, TD has now begun work on her second; a "how and why" guide explaining canine behavior for the average pet owner. Making it Work is based on TD's own training philosophies. TD is currently looking for a publisher or agent willing to take on the project.
TD Yandt is a member in good standing of the DWAA (Dog Writers Association of America) as both a writer and photographer. As a trainer she has been certified through ABTA, and is a former mentor with the Animal Behavior College.
Interested in meeting TD's canine family? Each has their very own "web folio" at dogster.com. Follow the link below (by clicking on the dogster logo) to visit their family overview. From there, you can click on any of the photographs to be taken to each dog's prospective profile. Hope to see you there!
