OUR STORY
Mahogany Ridge has built itself upon a philosophy that enables success through trust, respect, and understanding while strengthening the relationship between dog and handler. Mahogany Ridge, is truly dedicated to helping you understand and nurture the bond between you and your pet.
Theresa established Mahogany Ridge in 1982 as a dog training school and retail shop in Lake George, New York. Advertised by word of mouth the business grew as Theresa continued to focus on the needs of dogs and their people. A daycare business was added in 1991 when Mahogany Ridge moved south into Saratoga County, New York. During nearly twenty years Theresa and Mahogany Ridge flourished in the community offering dog training, daycare, retail dog food and supplies along with much support and advice to the many friends of Mahogany Ridge.
In 2010 Theresa and Mahogany Ridge relocated even further south to Culpeper, Virginia. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mahogany Ridge brings a wide range of services to Culpeper County and North Central Virginia. The 16 peaceful acres are dedicated to dogs well-being and fun. Multiple fenced in fields, woods, a creek, shade, pools in summer and ample parking are only a few of the features offered to dogs and their owners. The move south allows for extended outdoor activities with a longer, warmer season as well as the benefits of extended daylight!
Along the way
Theresa’s canine education consists of a multitude of seminars, training camps and self study.
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Theresa received her certification as an agility instructor by Julie Daniels in 1997 and is a follower of the Hatfield/Mah approach to agility.
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She has attended behavioral seminars by Katherine Houpt at Cornell University as well as training seminars with the late Job Michael Evans.
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She is a Certified Volhard Staff Instructor and a professional member (#2725) of the International Association of Canine Professionals.
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She also is an AKC Evaluator (#772290) for the Canine Good Citizen and Community Canine tests.
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Most recently Theresa has received her Competent Communicator certificate with Toastmaster International and her Trick Dog Instructor certificate from Kyra Sundance with Do More With Your Dog. Theresa is forever a student who seeks any information to be gathered.
Many individuals, organizations, and schools have recognized Theresa for sharing her knowledge and experience. She has helped many to become successful with their goals, whether it be fixing behavior problems, obedience, agility, or teaching their dogs special skills like running beside a bike! Never hesitant to face a challenge, Theresa reaches into her “bag of tricks” and comes up with the solution.
Students and trainers alike seek Theresa’s help and guidance. With her knowledge and skill she leads the way, facing each challenge with confidence. She tailors her training to the individual team, so that a strong bond is formed and the dog and handler work as one. In this way success is achieved and goals are met, whether that goal is of a happy family pet or a competitive team.
