Experience, Proven Methods, Stronger Human-Animal Connections
“Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent then the one derived from fear of punishment.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi
Training Philosophy
“I believe the relationship and trust developed between trainer and animal are the key to effective and lasting results. I want every animal I work with to be excited and want to work with me, not fear the repercussions if they don’t. Through experience over many years and with a variety of species, I have found that investing in this relationship makes an animal more likely to choose the behaviours you find important.
My training is based on a simple concept: reward the behaviours you want. A behaviour that is rewarded is more likely to be repeated. To change behaviour, we must remove rewards (consciously or unconsciously bestowed) for unwanted behaviour and focus instead on rewarding good behaviour. Although being kinder in our approach is great, it is not the only reason this is an effective and time-tested training practice.
This simple approach allows the animal to become confident, engaged, and enthusiastic, as they expect the consequences to be pleasurable. In my experience, an engaged animal learns quickly using its own creativity and initiative. Through positive reinforcement, you also strengthen your bond with the animal due to shared positive experiences. All relationships in life are stronger when you take your focus away from the negative and look at the positive. When you align positive feedback with a clear and simple method of communication, the results can be astounding. This simple concept can be life-changing. Couldn’t we all benefit from clear communication combined with continuous praise and encouragement?
I support the positions taken against punishment- and dominance-based training by the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) and endorse the AVSAB approach to puppy socialization. Please see the following link for more information on this organization and its policies. www.avsabonline.org”
Meet the Staff
Cindy Peacock
Founder & Lead Trainer
For over 20 years, Cindy Peacock has devoted her career to strengthening the human-animal bond through compassionate, science-based training. Her philosophy is simple: when we bring animals into our world, we have a responsibility to guide them through training that helps them thrive—not just coexist. Her ultimate goal is to help animals stay in their forever homes and to give their human companions the tools to build a mutually rewarding, lifelong relationship. Cindy’s journey began with fostering animals, giving each one the individualized attention needed to transition into a new home successfully. In 2004, she joined the Calgary Zoo, where she spent six years as a keeper and trainer, working with diverse species. Realizing she could make an even greater impact by working directly with animals and their owners, she founded Cindy Peacock Animal Trainer in 2010. Since then, she has helped countless pet parents develop positive, lasting relationships with their animals.
Credentials & Experience
-Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) -Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) -Former Lead Trainer at Kicking Horse Grizzly Refuge -Apprenticed with Calgary Humane Society, teaching behavior classes and assessing incoming animals -Years of hands-on experience training a wide range of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, goats, horses, and even grizzly bears Beyond training, Cindy is a dedicated volunteer, contributing her expertise to organizations such as the Animal Rescue Foundations of Alberta and Ontario (ARF), the Calgary Humane Society, Halo Husky Haven, MEOW Foundation, Calgary Wildlife Rehabilitation Society, and the Global Animal Lovers Society. With a deep passion for animal welfare and education, Cindy continues to make a positive difference in the lives of pets and their humans every day.
Emma Garson
Apprentice Trainer
Emma Garson joined Cindy in February 2023 to further her expertise in modern, science-based training methods. Under Cindy’s mentorship, she has developed hands-on skills in pet first aid, canine biology and evolution, and ethical training techniques. Even before beginning her apprenticeship, Emma was committed to learning. In 2023, she successfully completed the Professional Pet Dog Trainer Certificate Program through the Good Dog Academy, which equipped her with the knowledge to support pets and their owners on their training journey. Emma is passionate about helping animals gain confidence and trust through positive reinforcement, ensuring that training is effective, ethical, and enjoyable for both pets and humans.
Lesley Brown
Dog Walker
Lesley is originally from Southern Ontario; she moved to Golden 5 years ago and has loved every day! She has two large girls; Bella and Lily, who enjoy exploring the trails with her.  Her spare time is spent volunteering with Little Mittens with both domestic and wildlife. Lesley is certified in pet first aid through Walks’N’Wags and trained in dog handling skills personally by Cindy Peacock.
