top of page

OUR FOUNDERS

The Force Free Trainers of Wisconsin (FFTW) was co-founded in 2013 by Laura Holder and Holly Lewis. As professional dog trainers, Holly and Laura would often consult each other with difficult client cases and discuss what it would be like to collaborate with other like-minded professionals on a more regular basis. Both Holly and Laura saw the great benefit with working with each other, but knew there was great value in teaming up with a larger group of people. After compiling a list of about 20 professionals in 2013, the Force Free Trainers of Wisconsin continues to grow, reaching over 45 members across the state of Wisconsin. 

Laura Holder, BFA, CPDT-KA, CNWI

 

My name is Laura Holder and I have had a passion for dog training and behavior for over a decade. A few years ago, I decided it was time to turn that passion into a part-time career and joined the training staff at BehaviorWorks Dog Training & Behavior Specialists, where I taught a variety of group classes between 2011 to 2014. In 2014, I decided to shift my focus and started my own training business, Connecting with Dogs. Since that time, I have developed a passion for scent work and co-founded the Conservation Dogs Collective in 2016 where I work on conservation-based scent detection with my two dogs, Ernie and Betty White.

 

Sharing my heart and home with a loving husband and beautiful White Shepherds has nurtured my passion for positive and humane training methods. Living through the struggles of having a dog with notable GI problems has also opened my eyes to the importance nutrition plays in the physical and emotional health of an animal. 

 

My personal and professional vow is to work with people and dogs using humane, reward-based learning methods. My work is centered on using positive reinforcement training techniques that empower the learner to be part of the learning process.  

 

Professional Credentials: 

​

You can read my full bio by visiting: https://www.connectingwithdogs.com/about

Holly Lewis, BFA, CPDT-KA

 

My name is Holly Lewis and I am the owner and founder of Cold Nose Canine. I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed with over 10 years of experience. I am well known throughout Southeast Wisconsin for my canine knowledge and positive style. 

 

I enjoy sharing my knowledge and expertise with others, including many rescue groups where I spend my time volunteering to help dogs learn the skills needed to find forever homes.  I believe all of our paths cross for a reason, and each interaction has a purpose.  

 

I am committed to providing the highest quality training, utilizing only force-free techniques and tools to help people build rewarding relationships with their dogs.  Honoring and respecting the dog is of utmost importance. 

 

Professional Credentials: 

bottom of page