ABOUT
Best practices for your best friend.
Good to the Bone combines science and kindness, manifested in a reward-based training methodology. This approach ensures better communication and mutual respect between you and your canine. It empowers owners to navigate the challenges without using fear and ensures your pooch is eager to train!
Meet the TEAM
Wendy DeSarno | Founder + Trainer
Based in Astoria, Queens, Wendy is an active part of the local dog-owning community. Her passion for positive reinforcement training has driven her clients to achieve their goals for over a decade. Wendy graduated from the Academy for Dog Trainers, where she received a comprehensive theoretical and practical education, led by Jean Donaldson, one of the world-leading experts in dog training and behavior. She earned a Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC), and is also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
Wendy has worked as an instructor with A Fair Shake For Youth, where she taught humane treatment of animals to middle-schoolers, helping to build empathy and self-esteem while reducing bullying. As a former part-time behavior counselor for the ASPCA, she implemented behavior modification programs and counseled adopters on responsible ownership.
Mary Paranicas | Trainer
Mary is a professional dog trainer with certification from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy (CCDT). She is a member of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers and certified in pet first aid by the American Red Cross. Mary avidly pursues continuing education by attending conferences and staying current on dog training literature. She has also volunteered at a number of local dog rescue organizations and been a therapy team with her dog, Tara at New York Therapy Animals. She brings with her a sophisticated understanding of scientific principles and a true love of people and dogs.
She is life-long resident of Manhattan and lives with her human and animal family that includes a Sphynx cat, a Chinese Crested dog, and a 14-year-old turtle.
Learn more about Wendy in this Huffington Post article:
“Wendy was an excellent trainer for my dog and I. She was extremely patient and kind with my dog, and communicated very well with me to let me know the reasoning behind all that we were doing. She was extremely accessible to me and even after our training was done, I went to her several times for help when I encountered stressful situations with my dog. Each time she was extremely reassuring and helpful, and made it clear that she was happy to be available to me. Wendy has gone above and beyond, and has always shown genuine concern for my dog and me. I cannot recommend her more highly!””