Michelle Sevigny, a former Vancouver city police officer, is the founder of DOGTIME^® Canine Recreation Company and DOGSAFE^® Canine First Aid.

In 1992, she graduated from university with a degree in communications and psychology which started her fascination with how both humans and animals learn. Michelle studied operant and classical conditioning; the essential science behind changing behaviour.

Her love for dogs continued into formal canine education where she studied all levels of obedience, tracking, behaviour problems and more. Michelle is a strong believer of on-going education and regularly attends professional conferences, seminars and workshops in the areas of dog training and behaviour. 

In addition to dog training, Michelle also became interested in canine massage after her Chinese Shar-Pei, Dallas, was paralyzed due to a spine condition. She studied canine anatomy, massage techniques, acupressure and flower essences and uses these skills during training sessions to create a relaxing atmosphere -- a must for learning to take place. 

Michelle also became intrigued with canine first aid after attempting to transport her paralyzed dog, Dallas, with no knowledge or skills of how to do so safely. This experience compelled Michelle to develop the DOGSAFE^® canine first aid courses  and safety workshops. Michelle is also the author of DOGSAFE:Everything Your Dog Wants You to Know in an Emergency. Michelle considers your dog's safety a priority when conducting in-your-home training sessions.

Michelle can regularly be found trail running and sharing other adventures with her dog Monty, a Rottweiler adopted from the Vancouver Animal Shelter. Monty, who was named after Monty Python, because of all his goofy antics, reminds her daily of the joy to be had by sharing your life with a dog.

"Your dog is perfect at being themselves"

  Photo of Michelle Sevigny and Monty courtesy of Kate Morris Photography.