Cascadia Dog Training
Meet Our Team
Michelle Sellars
Founder And Head Trainer
I know what you’re going through!
Hey, Michelle here!
I am a wife, a mother of 2, a dog owner and founder of Cascadia Dog Training.
My journey into dog training began when we adopted Sam at 7 months old (now 9). The advice we received and the training we tried left us feeling lost. With a stubborn and intelligent dog like Sam, the usual treat-based methods of "reward the good and ignore the bad" just weren't cutting it.
I started exploring other approaches, and we saw a dramatic change in Sam almost overnight! Soon, neighbors noticed and began asking for help with their dogs. My passion for dog training grew, leading me to take courses and learn hands-on from top trainers across the United States. I brought that knowledge back and started my business (formerly "Pawsitive Change K9 Training").
Today, Cascadia Dog Training has been the top dog training service in North Vancouver for four years running—more than I ever imagined over 8 years ago!
I still love helping people achieve their dreams with their dogs, teaching them how their dogs think and why they behave the way they do, and I’ll continue doing this for many years to come.
Passionate & qualified
Our Peeps
Cassandra T.
SENIOR TRAINER
Hey, I’m Cassandra!
Originally from Ontario, I’ve been out west since 2004 and call North Vancouver home. So if you’re on the North Shore or in and around Vancouver, I’m your trainer!
Growing up with dogs, I’ve experienced the good, the bad, and the reactive. After going through a program with Cascadia in 2020 to address my Cane Corso’s resource guarding and reactivity, I saw a remarkable transformation in my dog. She became happier, and our bond strengthened.
This experience inspired me to pursue a comprehensive training program, and now, as a Certified Cascadia Trainer*, I look forward to helping others build better relationships with their dogs, as I know how disruptive a misbehaving dog can be to our lives.
I work with all breeds and temperaments (with a giant soft spot for all bully breeds), and my experience spans from helping with brand new puppies, to basic obedience and more serious behavioural issues.
Regardless of your dog’s breed or issues, I’m always happy to help! I'm passionate about sharing my knowledge with other dog owners because, like everyone at Cascadia Dog Training, I’ve been there too.
Terra S.
Junior Trainer
Hello! I'm Terra, originally from North Vancouver and now residing in Pitt Meadows with my husband Devon and our beloved ten-year-old staffie mix, Moxie.
In 2017, I began working at a dog daycare, and by 2019, I founded my own dog walking company, focusing on advancing my knowledge in canine handling.
My journey into dog training started with addressing my own dogs' reactivity a while ago, but I was really able to tackle things head-on once I worked with Michelle. The theories and methods resonated deeply with me, and helping people connect with their dogs has become my true calling.
I love helping owners with new puppies, but also tackling tough issues like leash reactivity, on and off leash obedience, and recall. I’ve worked with many breeds and temperaments, but I have a real soft spot for bird dogs (Pointers, Weimaraners, Vizslas, etc.).
After working hard in early 2024, I'm proud to now be a Certified Cascadia Trainer*. I'm thrilled to share my expertise and make a positive difference in the lives of both dogs and their owners!
Angela S.
Admin Coordinator
Hi, I’m Angela! I retired in July 2020 from a management position with a local greenhouse, and then Covid hit, which put a damper on my plans to volunteer with the local Hospice Society. With Michelle being my daughter, and in need of some admin help, I couldn’t wait to jump on board! I joined Cascadia Dog Training in December of 2020 and have loved working with all of you ever since.
At home I enjoy spending time with Zeke, our Australian Shepherd, and Amelia, our cat. I also enjoy golfing and reading when Michelle isn’t working me too hard ;)
* Certified Cascadia Trainers have completed 20+ shadowing hours with CDT, and an additional 20+ hours of hands-on training with client dogs under head and senior trainer supervision.
* Junior Trainers have been CDT Trainer Certified, and have been working independently with clients for less than a year. Working with a Junior Trainer yields a 10% program discount on all programs.
* Senior Trainers have been CDT Trainer Certified, and have been working independently with clients for more than a year.
Let’s Work Together
Whether it’s on or off of the leash, we will work with you to get you the dog you’ve always wanted!