Meet Maria Parisi
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 Level 1 Academy Graduate, 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.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Education and Professional Development
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Cooperative Care Workshop (Mar. 28–29, 2026)
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Modern and Ethical Training Virtual Conference (Mar. 2026)
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Decoding Canine Body Language (Mar. 2026)
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Karen Pryor’s ClickerExpo Live Animal & Dog Training Conference (Jan. 2026)
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Canine Behavior Academy (Peaceable Paws, Nov. 2025)
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Rowdy to Refined (Peaceable Paws, Sept. 2025)
Upcoming Education and Training
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Canine Behavior Modification Academy (May 2026)
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Brain Candy Cognition Workshop (Jun. 2026)
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The Shape of Things to Come: Shaping Workshop (Oct. 2026)
Volunteering and Support Roles
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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)
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