Meet Maria Parisi, PMCT-1*
Owner
One Question That Changed Everything
After I opted for early retirement from a fulfilling career in the federal and private sectors, a friend asked a simple question that changed my life: “Have you ever thought about volunteering with animals?” That suggestion led me to Peaceable Paws, where I discovered positive reinforcement training.
What began as exploring volunteer opportunities soon became a passion for understanding modern behavioral science about how animals think, learn, and communicate—and the beginning of a new, deeply rewarding career.
Meet Kacy - My Heart
Kacy was my heart dog and my inspiration. She lived a happy, love-filled life and continues to motivate me today.
Learning more about behavior and enrichment showed me how confidence and connection grow through engagement - puzzle play, scent games, agility, and simple problem-solving.
If I knew then what I know now, I would have offered Kacy even more opportunities to learn, explore, and shine.
Why Positive Reinforcement?
I use positive reinforcement, force-free methods grounded in modern behavioral science. This approach focuses on technical skills, building confidence, and strengthening communication between people and their pets.
These principles guide everything I do - from training and enrichment to daily routines and in-home care.
My Force-Free
Approach
I do not use or support tools or methods that cause discomfort, fear, or pain.
If you rely on equipment or practices I don't use, such as underground electric fences and prong collars or collar or leash corrections, I'm happy to chat about science-based alternatives to enhance trust and improve communication between you and your dog, while also promoting faster and fun learning.
Why Work With Me?
Dog training and pet care are largely unregulated fields; continuing education and professional development matters.
I'm a Pat Miller Certified Trainer-1 (PMCT-1). I graduated from three of Pat's dog training academies, at Peaceable Paws in Fairplay, MD, to achieve this certification (noted below). And, I stay current through hands-on learning, volunteer work, and professional development focused on dog behavior and enrichment.
As an experienced homeowner, I manage in-home care with reliability and respect. I'm committed to the wellbeing of every animal I work with.
And, Positive Training and Pet Care is licensed, insured, and bonded.
Certifications and Professional Development
Certifications
Professional Development
Upcoming Education and Training
Volunteering and Support Roles
* Level 1 Canine Behavior and Training Academy Gradate (2025)
Level 2 Canine Behavior Modification Academy Graduate (2026)
Level 3 Aggression Academy Graduate (2026)
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Movement Puzzles Academy (underway)
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Brain Candy Cognition Workshop (Jun. 2026)
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Mastering Canine Aggression and Conflict in the Home Webinar (Jun. 2026)
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Cooperative Care Workshop (Mar. 2026)
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Modern and Ethical Training Virtual Conference (Mar. 2026)
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Decoding Canine Body Language Class (Mar. 2026)
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Karen Pryor’s ClickerExpo Live Animal & Dog Training Conference (Jan. 2026)
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Rowdy to Refined Class (Peaceable Paws, Sept. 2025)
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The Shape of Things to Come: Shaping Workshop (Oct. 2026)
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Cognition Academy (2027)
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Support group training at Peaceable Paws (2025-2026)
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Multiple Basic Good Manners classes
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Beyond Good Manners classes
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Mild to Wild classes
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Nose Games classes
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Assistant, Canine Behavior and Training Academy (Apr. 2026)
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Dog walker, Frederick County Animal Control (Oct. 2025-Jan 2026)
Testimonials
More testimonials coming soon!
Dog and Cat Sitting
I highly recommend Maria for pet care.
I knew I could trust in her to care for my critters, right from the start.
Her thorough intake approach and attention to detail set my mind at ease that all the steps of my pet care routine would be respected.
But most importantly, her enthusiasm and kindness towards my animals that was evident in their first meeting, which let my heart rest easy that they would also receive love while I was gone.
I highly recommend Maria in not just caring for their basic needs, but to also their hearts.
~ Brittany Petersen
Dog Sit with Enrichment
Maria worked wonders with our beagle Dixie.
After 1 week, our 10-year-old dog was intellectually stimulated, better behaved, and eager to share her new tricks and skills with us.
Maria taught Dixie's owners as much as she taught the dog, and we all appreciated her daily updates and helpful tips and suggestions via an online journal. Her lessons were all the more effective because they were clearly infused with love for her furry client.
Maria proves you can teach an old dog (and their owners) new tricks.
She truly is a dog's best friend!
~ Mark Madison
Cat Checks
Maria was very responsible and caring when she took care of my cats. She even brought them a toy!
I would not hesitate to use her services again.
~ Satisfied Shepherdstown Customer
Thoughtful, Individualized Care
Every pet is different, which is why I bring curiosity, observation, and empathy to every interaction - whether training a new behavior, planning enrichment activities, or caring for pets while their humans are away.
I pay close attention to body language, comfort levels, and routines, helping each pet feel safe, engaged, and understood.
Thanks for visiting, and please let me know if you have any questions.
~ Maria Parisi