Tina M. Spring, Host
Tina started training dogs in 1979 as a child. She assisted her parents with classes, puppy rearing, training and even stewarded at many matches and shows. Her love of dogs and love of teaching led her to working with dogs and families. She specializes in fear and aggression as well as in providing safety programs.
In 2005 Tina authored her first book, “90 Days to the Perfect Puppy” which has had rave reviews by other training professionals and customers alike. This book is now being released as part of an online puppy rearing program. Check out her website at www.sithappens.us.
Originally from upstate New York, Tina has lived in Georgia since 1995. She has three dogs of her own – A pug named, Alberto who is mostly deaf, Marco & Jack, the Potcakes (feral island dogs), from Turks & Caicos Islands. She was a human foster parent and is a Mom and a Grandmother to three beautiful grandchildren. She is an avid motorcyclist and motorsports enthusiast. In her spare time she organizes scavenger hunt road rallies for families to get out and enjoy new adventures together.
Julie Fudge Smith, Host Emeritus
A lifelong dog lover, Julie has been training dogs professionally since 2003. She got her start at All About Dogs in Woodbridge, VA. In 2006, Julie moved to Ohio and started A Positive Connection.
She has a huge soft spot for shy dogs or those who have had a less-than-ideal start on life. Julie’s shared her life with dogs with special needs and knows that with love, empathy, and good training, they can have good lives.
A philosopher at heart, Julie also has a line of cards and other items based on her drawings from a pet’s point of view and her perspective that the world should be a little more animal-centric. Contact her at julie@apositiveconnection to learn more.
Now that Julie has retired, she loves writing, travel, reading, hiking, and spending time with her grandkids. You can check out her book (The Beast Keepers, due out August 1, 2023) and dog blog at www.apositiveconnection.com.
Colleen Pelar, Host Emeritus
Colleen Pelar is a professional certified coach (PCC) and former dog trainer who co-hosted the first 100 episodes of Your Family Dog (October 2016-July 2019). With over 25 years of experience in the pet industry, Colleen brought her background in canine behavior and family dynamics to help listeners create stronger bonds with their dogs. She is the author of three books on human-animal relationships and continues to support pet professionals through her coaching practice. During her time as co-host of the show, Colleen was dedicated to helping families build joyful, lasting relationships with their dogs.