Amanda Kontakos began training at a young age, working with horses and competing in Hunter/Equitation. Interested in training, she stopped competing and began to work using natural horsemanship techniques. With continued research in positive reinforcement training, Amanda even taught horses targeting and other tricks using clicker training.
Amanda spent nearly a decade working as a Dog Trainer with us – teaching everything from our puppy and manners classes, to getting clients ready for their first agility trials. Currently, Amanda has stepped back from training, and is a full-time high school Social Studies teacher along with being our Administrator and social media manager. Over the years, she has taught children and adults how to ride and care for horses for several organizations including Pony Club. She has also volunteered at vet clinics, shelters, therapeutic horseback riding programs, as well as the Prospect Park Zoo, where she educated the public on wildlife conservation.
Amanda adopted her Bichon Frise, Lucy (on Instagram) from Sean Casey Animal Rescue in early 2014. Lucy was extraordinarily fearful, but with Amanda’s help she has steadily gained confidence. Originally Doggie Academy clients, Amanda & Lucy began training together in Doggie Academy’s Basic Manners class and now, training is Lucy’s favorite activity. They even earned a qualifying score at their first Rally Obedience trial! Though she is no longer actively training, Amanda enjoys helping dogs and people reach their potentials and goals together using positive reinforcement training techniques.