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Lisa (Laney) Patrona, Dip. DTBC, CPDT, CB, Trainers Academy, LLC President

Lisa recognized her affinity for dogs as a very young girl.  After volunteering in a very sad and often hopeless shelter environment, she decided to make it her mission to help keep dogs out of shelters, believing strongly that most were there because they’d never been properly trained.

In October of 2005, Lisa became the owner and President of Trainers Academy, LLC - 6 years after joining Trainers Obedience Centers’ staff.    During her career she has worn many hats, including General Manager, Director of Behavioral Sciences, Class Instructor and Behavioral Counselor.  

Lisa graduated from Cynology College with honors, and holds a Diploma of Dog Training and Behavior Consulting. University level studies included developmental psychology, learning theory, canine social behavior, behavior modification and pharmacology.  Lisa is currently the only graduate of this program in Michigan, and one of only a few dozen worldwide.

James O’Heare, CABC, President of Cynology College said this about Lisa.  “Lisa completed here studies passing with Distinction, the highest level of recognition we offer for exceptionally excellent work. Lisa’s work demonstrates that she is highly knowledgeable in all areas of dog behavior, training and behavior consulting.  The course work she completed was advanced, in-depth, and at the university level, requiring both academic and hands-on demonstration of her knowledge and skills. Lisa has also been an extremely helpful presence in class, participating in discussions and helping less knowledgeable students understand the topics under review. She has been so helpful in fact that we have asked Lisa to remain in class with us after graduation in order to contribute to future discussions for the benefit of our students.”

Lisa also studied both academic and applied theory within Trainers Obedience Centers program of Behavioral Sciences, and holds certifications as a Canine Behavioral Counselor at levels 1, 2 and 3.  Level 3 counseling certification denotes special emphasis on the etiology, assessment and treatment of aggression in canines. 

She earned the title of Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT), through the Association of Pet Dog Trainers in 2002, joining the ranks of less than 500 others to become one of the first in history to earn the certification in the United States and Canada.   

Lisa is a Member of the International Institute for Applied Companion Animal Behavior (IIACAB), an Associate Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.  Lisa also regularly Mentors students and graduates of Animal Behavior College.

She has written curriculum for the schools’ educational programs, and training articles that have been published on national websites such as www.Woofology.com and www.ConnectingNeighbors.com. She was also featured in a front-page article in the Daily Tribune for her work with rescued dogs, and has appeared on Detroit Public Television.  In November 2004, Lisa was nominated by her staff and chosen by Detroit radio station WCSX to be honored as a “Working Class Hero”. 

Lisa resides on Berkley with her husband Tristan, stepdaughter Ella, and their 4 dogs BuBu, Simon, Calvin, and Maddie.

Read what Lisa's students say about her:

"Muffin has been to Puppy Class and Intermediate Class, both have been taught by Lisa, who I might add, is the BEST!  Muffin has learned so much and at present she is the "queen" of the "leave it" command.  This is the one she does best.  Muffin has learned to transfer this command to all areas around the house, which makes life so pleasant at our house.  I can't say enough about Trainers Academy.  Each and everyone of my experiences have been very positive."

Puppy and Intermediate Class Graduates Ann Hager & Muffin

"Lisa is wonderful! I felt very confident in her ability to help Ellie and I communicate better."

Intermediate Class Graduates Rob Denton & Ellie

 "Saturday mornings are a major high point in the week for Arielle and for me. I continue to be amazed at how much we are learning and how much fun it is. Lisa is fantastic! "

Puppy Class Graduates Jan Bragoli & Arielle

"I have owned dogs all of my life, but I have never had such a positive response from my dogs as I have had with this program. Thank you Lisa for giving me the knowledge to teach my dog to become a great companion."

Puppy Class Graduates Lisa Vanston & Rocco

 "I've been to Trainers Academy with all three of my dogs. Lisa is the best instructor I have experienced."

Puppy Class Graduates Lisa Fox & Ruby

"I wish Lisa taught the next level of classes. I considered re-doing the Intermediate class, just to be under her tutelage, but typical of Lisa, she was very unselfish and said that Kona was ready for the Advanced Class. She knows how to train dogs, but she also handles the owners very well. I respect her professionalism."

Intermediate Class Graduates Michael F. Smith & Kona

 "This was my first experience with a puppy class and I had a great time. I would recommend it to anyone who gets a new puppy. Even if you think you know what you are doing there is always something to learn. "

Puppy Graduates Heather Lestczyrsk & Porsche

"Lisa is awesome! She is very knowledgeable and worked with everyone on an individual basis. She was able to address any problems and help people with their puppy's personality. All the other trainers were very helpful. You could tell that they all love dogs and I think the puppies could tell too."

Puppy Graduates Linda Hildbold & Haiku

“Lisa really knows dogs and how they perceive the world around them.  This really helps an owner work with and understand their puppy during the training process.  A positive attitude and consistency are what training is all about, along with taking time everyday to have fun with your pet, and to form a life long bond.”

Puppy Graduates Jan Dahl & Franklin