STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. --Whether it’s an "untrainable" dog or one who likes to chew on your favorite pair of pumps, Kristen Weingarten, owner of The Happy Canine, says she has the solution for

.

“I focus on obedience and behavioral issues. I travel to the owner’s home as a convenience,” she said.

“My doggy clients range in age and size. They are dogs who need rules…My (people) clients are owners who care deeply about their dogs, and want to help adjust the relationship they have with their pet,” she added.

Ms. Weingarten developed a knack for training dogs after her dog, Henry, piqued her interest in the science behind dog behaviors.

“I always knew that I wanted to work with animals, but it took me some time to figure out the field I wanted to specialize in,” she said.

She started her career with dogs by volunteering for groomers and with a local animal rescue group, called Louie's Legacy Animal Rescue. She also worked as a receptionist at a veterinarian's office, before finding her calling as a trainer.

The Happy Canine

Address:

52 Lander Ave. Staten Island, NY 10314

Established:

May 2013



Contact:

917-696-7002

“I realized that training is a very important part of an animal’s well being, and a well-behaved dog is far less likely to end up in a shelter when a new baby comes along or another life change,” said Ms. Weingarten.

After training dogs for several years, Ms. Weingarten opened The Happy Canine LLC in Grainiteville.

Products and services

Ms. Weingarten offers private in-home training, and is soon hoping to offer group classes. She teaches dogs a variety of behavior techniques, from basic obedience to tricks and general manners.

“Owners come to me because I train using primarily positive reinforcement methods. I believe in a mutual respect for people and animals, and a human/canine partnership,” she said.

Growth strategy

Through referrals and word of mouth, Ms. Weingarten hopes to grow her business.

“My growth strategy is to focus on my existing client relationships for word-of-mouth marketing in order to continue to grow organically,” she said.

“I also have referring veterinarians and pet stores that have been crucial in my growth strategy,” she added.

Five-year goals

In the future, she would love to have a storefront, and a few more trainers under The Happy Canine umbrella.

If you have a new business on Staten Island, contact Tracey Porpora at Porpora@siadvance.com and put "New Business" in the subject line.

