Experienced Nanaimo dog trainer at home with her two well-trained dogs, building trust through positive training methods.

Hello, I’m Sherri!

Nanaimo and Vancouver Island dog trainer here to help you

I have a passion for transforming the lives of the owners of fearful rescued or re-homed dogs—dogs that are struggling because of a challenging start to their lives. I also love helping owners of rambunctious rascals learn how to communicate with their furry companions to strengthen the bond between them. My coaching style is supportive, positive and personalized.

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  • Throwback photo of Nanaimo dog trainer in her youth with her first dog

    My First dog, Tauejue

    I got my first dog, Tauejue, when I was in my early twenties. I learned how transformative owning a dog could be for the human mind, body and most importantly heart! But, I also learned how much work it can be to own a dog. It was then that I realized how necessary effective training can be both for you and your dog’s wellbeing. I think if Tauejue were here to see me training dogs, she would be very proud of her Mama!

  • This is Fendi, the first dog trained by a dedicated Nanaimo dog trainer Sherri Wade at Rascals and Rescues. Fendi’s progress reflects the personalized approach to training that every dog receives.

    My First Trainee, Fendi

    Fendi was just 13 months old when he was adopted from an organization that specializes in rescuing dogs from around the world. He had been raised with a pack of dogs but had very little human contact. Fendi had never been in a car, felt grass beneath his paws, or lived in a home. His reactivity in the house made his new owner feel overwhelmed. This situation marked the start of my learning journey to help Fendi and his owner build a fulfilling relationship.

  • This is Iggy, the first rescue dog trained by a dedicated Nanaimo dog trainer from Rascals and Rescues. Iggy's progress reflects the personalized approach to training that every dog receives.

    My First Rescue, Iggy

    On my first day volunteering with the Nanaimo SPCA, I met Iggy, a one-year-old, 90-pound mixed breed. He was strong, energetic, and lacked impulse control. I made it my mission to help him learn basic manners and leash-walking skills so that he was adoptable. Iggy was quick to learn, eager to please, and genuinely wanted to be a good dog. So I adopted him! He has taught me that a reactive dog can be a wonderful companion with patience, guidance, and clear boundaries.

My Mission

To guide guardians of fearful or reactive dogs in building trust-based communication and practical skills that help both ends of the leash feel safe, supported and understood.

My Vision

A world where no dog lives in fear and no guardian feels alone. A world where safety, understanding and connection are the foundation of every human-dog relationship

My Experience

My various careers and volunteering have given me a unique ability in the dog training space to empower dog owners—not just their dogs: My years as a police officer have taught me to identify a problem and to work collaboratively towards a better outcome; as a long time athletics coach, I love working with people to help them realize their potential; and volunteering with the Nanaimo SPCA has resulted in continuously learning how to communicate with dogs under stressful situations.

Silhouette of a dog wearing a red cape and collar, standing in profile, set against a white circular background with a dark red border.

What I Realized Was Missing from Dog Training in Nanaimo

Training that not only served the dog, but also a trainer who had experience coaching people to be the best dog owners they can be! Tapping into my extensive coaching experience, I created Rascals & Rescues to offer a distinctly personalized training service that keeps in mind the owners’ unique learning style as much as the dog’s!

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My Approach to Dog Training

  • Number 1 with a paw print design in the background, representing the first of the three ways that distinguish dog training with Nanaimo company Rascals and Rescues.

    Convenient

    I can travel to you, if you reside in the Nanaimo area

  • Number 2 in dark red with a paw print in light pink in the background, representing the second of the three ways that distinguish dog training with Nanaimo company Rascals and Rescues.

    Humane

    I believe it takes curiosity, patience and a sense of humour to help a dog transform into the dog they want to be.

  • Number 3 on a beige background with paw prints, representing the third of the three ways that distinguish dog training with Nanaimo company Rascals and Rescues.

    Empowering

    I’ll help you, the owner, develop confidence in training your dog too!

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