Hi, I’m Ferdous.
pronounciation: fair-dos
they/them & she/hers
My Background
You know how a lot of dog trainer bios start with “I’ve had dogs my whole life”? My path wasn’t so direct.
When our family cat was rehomed due to my mom’s allergies, I was so sad! Cat Fancy magazines from the school library were my only connection to animals for years (I ripped out the posters…don’t tell). My first real experience with animals began when I was a teen, as a stablehand. One of my most peaceful memories is a cold winter day in the barn; sun barely risen, breath rising in clouds from the whickering horses.
Years later, I entered the animal world formally when I became a surgical assistant at a high-volume nonprofit veterinary hospital and shelter, then at a private practice. I gained seven years of experience in handling and treating cats and dogs—along with the occasional pig, goat, and sheep—as patients, and much of my current knowledge is informed by my years of being arm-deep in dogs (literally).
My first dog, Dosha, taught me the wonders and horrors of puppyhood. My second dog, Muma, taught me the patience and kindness needed to deal with dog-to-dog aggression. Learning about her led me to the world of animal behavior. I began work at a local dog care company as a training apprentice, eager to know as much as I could. With the help of my wonderful training team, I completed my apprenticeship, got certified as a CPDT-KA, and began training on my own.
So no, I didn’t grow up with dogs…I found them. Or maybe they found me. Either way, I love helping humans and dogs not just live together, but thrive together.
My Methods
I investigate the root of your dog’s undesirable behaviors: health, breed, environment, and more. If your dog is experiencing hip pain, we’ll start with alleviating his discomfort—not obedience. If your working-breed dog is destructive, then we won’t rely on punishment—we’ll create healthy outlets for her innate needs. I start with asking, “Why?”
I don’t need or use force or fear, and I don’t rely on punishment to change behavior. They’re not necessary, period (and yes, I can cite my sources!). If you’re currently using equipment designed to cause fear, pain, or discomfort, such as electric or prong collars, I’ll help you transition to safer equipment without judgement or shaming.
I prioritize teamwork. You, dear guardian, are the most essential part of the process.That means that your safety, emotional well-being, opinions, and abilities are of paramount importance. See, I’m not here to train your dog for you. I’m here to empower you to empower your dog so that you’re prepared for anything life throws at you,
My training Philosophy
Humans and dogs have a bond that goes back tens of thousands of years. I strive to honor that bond by focusing on what unique dog-human families really need, not what’s “normal.” That means making space for agency, getting curious about the function of behaviors, and seeking to understand animals—human and dog—as whole creatures shaped by genetics, health, the environment, past experiences, unique personalities, and more. To do this responsibly, I’m always learning (from books, courses, fellow animal professionals, and more), and use evidence-based, welfare-focused methods.
Breathing deeply encourages calm and makes room for thoughtful decisions. I want the relationship between dogs and humans to feel like that. Welcome to Deep Breath Canine Behavior Support!