Learn to speak the same language as your pets.

A Smarter Approach

Pets have been part of our families for thousands of years, but we know more about their biology and psychology now than we ever have before.

In my training and coaching, I apply emerging discoveries in the areas of animal cognition and behavior to understand the minds, emotions and behaviors of your pets.

Whether you have had your pet for years or are just starting to consider adoption, Smarty Pets can help you gain the skills and knowledge to tackle any situation as a pet caretaker. I’ll help you identify why problem behaviors arise and how to modify unwanted behaviors so you and your pets can live more harmoniously. 

Together, we will build a profile of your animals’ strengths and challenges, working as a team to ensure that every pet has the opportunity to thrive.

Two black and white dogs sitting on autumn leaves, looking up.

My Story

I am the proud pet parent of two dogs and three cats. They are my greatest teachers of animal behavior and cognition, as well as the human-animal bond. It isn’t always easy, but with the challenges of raising a family of rescued dogs and cats have come many opportunities to learn a wide range of techniques for working with animals. 

I first became interested in animal cognition while working with domesticated animals as an organic farmer. In that work, I learned that the principals of animal husbandry apply to enriching the lives and environment of any animal that is under human care. When we understand what drives our pets from a biological perspective, we can do a better job of imitating nature to create a rich and rewarding life for our pets.

Modern life presents new challenges to pet parents, as well as new opportunities to learn and grow together. My greatest hope is that as we continue to co-evolve with our pet companions, we may do so with grace and ease. After all, there’s great evidence to suggest that animals, in fact, are what make us human.

Person wearing glasses sitting with a dog in a yellow sweater on a wooden deck, with trees and blue sky in the background.

Smarty Pets Trainer / Coach Lindsey Wilson, pictured with her dog Zora

Customized training to meet your individual needs

Mental Skills

Memory, self-control, puzzle/problem solving and communication

Physical Skills

Sensory engagement, navigating physical space, body language, strength and fitness

Relational Skills

Cooperation, trust building, self-esteem and promoting positive emotions

Let's Talk.

To schedule a free consultation phone or video call, send an email to smartypetsnc@gmail.com.