Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Billingsley.
Hi Megan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello! My name is Megan Billingsley and I have been working with animals for the past 20+ years. In my animal career, I have been a vet tech, trainer, sled dog caretaker, pet sitter and volunteer at a rescue sanctuary for big cats.
I volunteered during my Masters degree program at USF (2010/11) at Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, FL where I learned Operant Conditioning and enrichment tactics.
I spent the summer of 2013 working in Canada with over 20 sled dogs and supervising their summer training including pack hikes and play groups.
I apprenticed with the lead dog trainer on the Emory Dog Project in 2014 which used fMRI machines to see the brain functions of a fully awake and unrestrained dog; it was here that I learned about desensitization and building bonds with dogs.
In 2015, I spent a year and a half in Austin as a tutor at The Canine Center for Training and Behavior where we worked with dogs using exercise and positive reinforcement to enforce relationships. We practiced the Tellington TTouch method and the John Rogerson theory of showing emotions to reward your dog.
I live in East Atlanta Village with my husband, two daughters and our dog. Sienna, our lovable ‘pibble’, is a CGC certified dog and can speak to us using AAC devices. Our former dog, Nanook, was a ‘therapy dog for other dogs’ and CGC certified.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I actually started this journey during COVID because so many people were getting dogs. I put a sign in my yard advertising dog training and the calls started coming in!
The biggest struggle has been juggling owning my business while also being a mother to my two daughters. The logistics of child care hasn’t been the easiest but I have a great support system and loving family.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in dog training using positive reinforcement and enrichment based education to create a safe and fun learning environment for both dogs and owners.
I use a lot of my background from working with different types of animals in my behavioral modification training.
I am most proud of creating this business from the ground up and keeping it afloat during two pregnancies and maternity leaves. After having my children, I learned that I could teach others about how to integrate a new family member into their dog’s lives using desensitization and classical conditioning methods. My Dog + Baby Prep session has helped numerous new parents understand how to handle their dog during the first few weeks before and after bringing the baby home.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to collaborations! I did a puppy yoga class with the Humane Society and will be helping to coordinate the pet section during the East Atlanta Strut. I like to stay fresh in my community!
A quick email to hello@primedinstincts.com about a collaboration or wanting to work with me in some dog training. You can also head over to my website www.primedinstincts.com and fill out the contact form.
Pricing:
- Puppy Primer Package, for dogs under a year old (4 lessons = $325)
- House Manners Package, for dogs over a year ($350/4 lessons)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.primedinstincts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primedinstincts/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/primedinstinctsllc/
Image Credits
Photos by Chad Borer
