Brandy Oliver, M.A.
Advisory Board Member
Brandy Oliver has been an avid dog lover since she was a child. Her love of dogs and all animals has brought her into circumstances that have been a source of inspiration and an ongoing learning experience through-out her life. Currently, Brandy is the owner and creator of the popular dog behavior web site, www.DoggieDoor.com, "The Internet's Doggie Door to Canine Behavior." Brandy chose the site name because she believes that doggie doors can add to the quality of life for most dogs, as well as be an aid in some dog behavior problems. DoggieDoor.com began in 1996 and was one of the first web sites to offer in-depth and individualized dog behavior advise via the Internet. DoggieDoor.com was featured in the well-received book "Dogs on the Web," a survey of 500 of the top canine-related web sites. And its reputable mailing list has had over 10,000 members around the globe. DoggieDoor.com was also featured on Microsoft's web site as a "Small Business Success Story" in 1998. Many of the articles on DoggieDoor.com, have been re-printed and published with permission in over 20 pet-related newsletters and magazines. Brandy has been quoted in Dog Fancy and Dog World articles about various dog behavior related topics. In 2000 Brandy opened a new web site, www.PuppyClass.com, a positive reinforcement puppy class directory. In 2002 Brandy opened a new web site, www.K9U.com, a series of email groups in which dog owners can ask behavior questions of their "instructor" and receive help..
Brandy currently shares her home with her husband, four mix breed dogs (40 - 85 pounds), and a diabetic cat. One of Brandy's dogs is an official "Dog Scout" (www.dogscouts.com) and has taken and passed her Temperament Test (TT), is a Therapy Dog with TDI, Inc. and enjoys visiting the local children's hospital. Three of her dogs have earned their CGC as well as various Agility titles from USDAA and UKC. Her latest furry family member is attending clicker training classes with hopes of becoming a Canine Good Citizen as well, in the near future.
Brandy is a member and guest instructor of Dog Scouts of America, a non-profit organization that promotes humane education and the human/animal bond. They also provide the opportunity for dogs to earn merit badges and do community service work.
Brandy received her Master's Degree in Health Education and Human Performance with an Emphasis in Exercise Physiology from Michigan State University. She finds many similarities in the behavioral aspects of humans and dogs, as well as other animals. Operant conditioning focusing on positive reinforcement is her method of choice when working with dogs and other animals, including humans. Brandy has worked with and re-homed many abandoned/stray dogs and puppies and is a strong proponent for spay/neuter, animal quality-of-life, adopting rescued dogs, and humane education and enforcement.