About

Chris Michalak’s lifelong passion for dogs began in her childhood, when she participated in conformation shows as a Junior Handler for Siberian Huskies. By the age of twelve, she had imported her first Hungarian Vizsla, named ‘Charlie’, from England. Together, they secured both Canadian and American championships in conformation, novice obedience, and field trials. As time passed, Chris became well-known within breed rescue communities for her dedication to rehabilitating ‘hard to home’ dogs, specializing in canine behaviour.

Now the owner of a diverse group of animals, including several previously considered ‘unadoptable’, Chris and her pets have accumulated many titles and certifications, such as Canine Good Neighbour certifications for previously aggressive dogs. Chris and her animals maintain a dynamic and positive relationship, participating in a variety of dog sports including scent detection, tracking, formal obedience, Rally-O, agility, and dock diving.

Professionally, working in Municipal Enforcement, Chris often handles Animal Control duties, where she plays a key role in educating the public, managing found pets, and occasionally rescuing animals. She is also an accomplished falconer and holds a license in Wildlife Rehabilitation, focusing on birds of prey. Chris also has involvement as a certifying trainer with a local charity for therapy/service dogs as well. This was sparked by recognizing the profound therapeutic benefits that companion animals can provide. This is particularly evident in her own household, where her own certified canines offer essential physical and psychological support to family members with special needs.

Chris is an active member of the Canadian Kennel Club and serves as a CGN evaluator. Additionally, Chris is also a Certified Service Dog Coach, and Certified Trick Dog Instructor. She is committed to continual professional development, participating in a wide range of courses and workshops. These have included Livestock Evaluation, Wildlife Rehabilitation certification, seminars on managing dangerous dogs, Dog to Dog Aggression, Canine First Aid and CPR (Plus Advanced), Canine Emotional Intelligence, and the care of captive raptors. Additionally, she continuously enhances her skills through various classes and seminars.