Kathie Compton knows dogs!
Dogs have been an important part of her family since the 1930's when her great-grandfather established Sangamo Kennel to raise Cocker Spaniels. Kathie learned obedience training in the 1960's at the Capital Canine Obedience Club in Illinois but learning did not stop there. In the 1980's, she learned about operant conditioning and discovered how fast, effective and fun training can be for the animal and the trainer. Kathie still continues her training and behavior education through seminars, research, self-study, and networking with some of the best trainers, consultants, veterinarians and behaviorists in the business.
In 2001, Kathie opened mARFa Dog Training in Far West Texas. As a trainer and behavior consultant, Kathie is uniquely qualified in evaluating, managing and modifying a wide range of challenging dog behaviors, building and strengthening the human/canine bond, providing advice about choosing a dog, and finding the right training classes for you.
Kathie is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer. Her knowledge was assessed through the national, independent testing program of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). She is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). Both organizations require continuing education for re-certification. She is also an AKC Approved Evaluator for the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen Program.
Kathie volunteers her time for two prominent professional organizations. She is the past Vice President of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and is on the Member Relations Committee of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers. She is a professional member of the Animal Behavior Management Alliance and a member of the Animal Behavior Society.
Closer to home, Kathie is a founding member and President of the Board of Directors for Responsible Ownership of Marfa Pets (ROMP). She is the Volunteer Training and Behavior Director for Grand Companions Humane Society in Fort Davis, TX where she provides behavior assessments, consultation and training.