Liz Cleaves

Liz Cleaves is Auntie Dog. Liz dedicated years of hands on work to learn and advance her dog training career. She began with an apprenticeship at Doberman Rescue Unlimited with Training Director, Julia McDonough to learn the art of dog training and behavior rehabilitation. This hands-on experience with dogs of all temperaments and backgrounds was instrumental in giving Liz the background necessary to be an effective trainer and handler.

Liz began teaching classes for puppies and pet obedience and found her reputation as an effective trainer growing immediately. She moved her practice to Derry, NH in 2009 to join her friend and mentor. She returned to Tewksbury in 2011 and reopened the Auntie Dog Training Studio.

Liz believes that the true test of a dog’s working relationship with his owner is in the real world (Street Training as she calls it). This is that same philosophy that drives her teaching. Don’t let the warm title of “Auntie” mislead you. Liz is patient but serious and is very invested in her students’ success. She is an advocate for each dog she trains. She challenges her students to deal with big distractions and to build a deep bond of trust and respect between dog and handler. She urges her students to aim for solid communication on leash and off leash. Liz wants her students and their dogs to have the same experiences she does with her own dogs out in the real world: safe, confident and fun.

In this day of online certifications there are many self-proclaimed dog trainers opening up shop. Liz believes that when choosing a trainer, a prospective student should ask to see the trainer’s dog off leash and working around distractions without treats or training aids. Auntie Dog students, new and experienced, jump at the opportunity to do a demo with their own dogs.

Liz is an AKC Rally Judge and Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, a TDI Certified Evaluator, an Associate Member of Therapy Dogs International (TDI) and Chapter Director for TDI Chapter 306.

Liz enjoys competing in AKC Obedience and Rally with Boston Terrier, RACH, Sunwood’s FortaTude, CD, RM3, TDI and with German Shepherd, Imany vom Naisshof BN, RN, TDI, CGCA  (“DREI”).

Jennifer Ahern, Senior Trainer

Jennifer began working with dogs in the 1970’s, while continuing her love for raising, training and showing horses in Marlborough, MA at Brookside Farm. She has owned and trained nine personal German Shepherds.

Jennifer believes in the importance of dogs being good citizens not only to enhance the dogs’ life, but to enrich the lives of all those around them.

Jennifer moved Tewksbury in 2010. As she settled in, she began looking for a training facility to work with GSD, Bocce. That is when she first came to Auntie Dog.

After her 30+ years as a nurse, Jennifer has retired and now shares her passion of working and training dogs with her students. She actively competes in AKC Rally and Obedience and CDSP competition with her GSDs,  Zena, TKN, RA, CD, TDI and Bronson vom Sitz von der Hose, CGC, RN, TKN.

Jennifer is an AKC CGC Evaluator, Auntie Dog Camp Coach and private instructor.  She is also an Associate Member of Therapy Dogs International and an active member of TDI Chapter 306.

Jennifer not only teaches, she practices what she teaches. Her patience and knack for explanation make her the perfect instructor for both new handlers and experienced handlers alike. Jennifer resides in Tewksbury with her husband Rob.

Catherine O’Hara, Senior Trainer

Catherine began training at Auntie Dog as a student. She joined our staff in 2018 as an Assistant Trainer. Catherine became a Staff Trainer in 2019 and was promoted to Senior Trainer in 2022. She teaches and oversees our AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program and instructs Therapy Dog Training and Private lessons.

Catherine enjoys hiking, exploring, and playing Frisbee with her Australian Labradoodles and Border Collie. Brook Trail’s Precious Penny, CD, RM, RAE2, BCAT, THD, TKI, CGC, TDIA, RACH Brook Trail’s Pied Piper, CDX, RM6 RAE4, BCAT, THD, CGCA, TKI , TDI and Talisman Oh So Bright, RI, BCAT, CGC, TKN, FITB. She actively competes with Piper and Finn in AKC Rally and Obedience and CDSP Obedience and is preparing them to compete in agility.

Catherine’s quick wit and logical approach to dog training entertains as well as educates new students. Her hands on direction promotes clear communication between dog and handler.

Catherine is originally from Ireland and now lives in Concord with her partner Al and her “crew”. She is an Associate Member of Therapy Dogs International, a TDI Certified Evaluator, an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and S.T.A.R. Puppy Instructor. Penny and Piper volunteer in the Pet Therapy Program at Lincoln Public Schools and the Woburn Public Library.

Pat Scribner, Competition Director

Pat has earned 8 Obedience Trial Champion Titles (OTCH), 2 Rally Advanced Championship Titles (RACH) and 3 Master Hunter titles. She continues to enjoy a fulfilling and successful competition career, competing with her Golden Retrievers in all levels of AKC Obedience and AKC Rally.

Pat puts the fun in heeling and attention for both dogs and handlers. Students enjoy her easy style and witty sense of humor. Her Tuesday night Competition class is a “must attend” for our Novice through Utility exhibitors. Pat also offers private lessons and trial preparation classes.

Pat lives in Plaistow, New Hampshire with her husband Hartley and her 6 Golden Retrievers. Pat is an Associate member of Therapy Dogs International and an active member of TDI Chapter 306.

Deb Cunningham, Rally Instructor

Deb Cunningham instructs all levels of Rally and is a Studio favorite for handlers that are just starting their Rally journey. Her patience, real life show stories and unique presentation keep everyone learning and moving ahead. Deb’s support, genuine interest and encouragement of her fellow competitors is evident the moment you meet her.

Deb started competing with her personal dogs in 2016. She shows dogs in Conformation, Rally, Obedience, Dock Diving, Scent Work and Fast Cat.

Deb was invited and participated in AKC Rally Nationals in 2020 and has returned annually to compete with her Labrador Retrievers. She competed in the North American Dock Diving Nationals in 2023 and 2024.
Deb lives in Burlington, MA with her canine best friends: RACH, Erin Hills Circle of Life, CD, RM7,RAE3, DS.DJX5,HDJ3 “Zazu”, Sunsets Winter Storm, CD, RE,DCAT “Blizzard”, Sunapee’s All That You Can’t Leave Behind, BN, RI, CGCA, TKN “Bono” and Dido Vom Wilenholtz, RN, CCC, TKN.

When not training or instructing, Deb is the Purchasing and Inventory Manager at Electronic Products in Newburyport, MA.

Regina Ruggiero, Staff Trainer

Regina began her dog career as a veterinary technician in 2000. In 2011 she purchased Feathers & Tails Pet Care. She continues to own and operate this premiere pet care business.

Regina joined the Auntie Dog Training Studio in 2023 as an Assistant Trainer. She was promoted to Staff Trainer in 2024. Regina brings a wealth knowledge and experience to her classes. She is at ease handling all breeds, sizes and temperaments. Regina is a lead instructor for Graduate School and shares the teaching platform at Puppy Basics and Obedience Group Class. She is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and S.T.A.R. Puppy Instructor.

Regina embraces training as a way of life. As a pet care provider, she has experienced first-hand how difficult an untrained dog can be for a family. She encourages praise and fun time balanced with training and clear communication.

Regina enjoys camping, hiking and music of all varieties. She lives in Billerica with husband Chris and their two children, Cameron and Tally. The family shares their home with Mastiff X, MJ and Greyhound X, Buddy.

Julia Spence, Staff Trainer

Julia began training at Auntie Dog in with her Golden Doodle, Hailey in 2019. After completing group and private training with Hailey, she began assisting with our Puppy Basics group classes.

Julia teaches Private Prep School, Graduate School, Group Pet Obedience and Puppy Basics sessions. Her sense of humor and fun approach to training exercises help students to relax and have fun with their dogs.

Julia was “bitten” by the competition bug and began training for the ring after stewarding at a Rally Trial in 2021. She and Hailey Taylor Spence CD, RM, RAE, BCAT, THDA, CGC, TKI, FITB actively compete in AKC Rally and Obedience, CDSP, and WCRL. Julia and Hailey are Associate Members of Therapy Dog International. Julia is also training her young Australian Shepherd “Swiftie” Bard’s Reputation,  CGC, to compete in the future. Julia is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and S.T.A.R. Puppy Instructor.

Julia works as an Actuary for Nationwide Insurance Company. She lives with her husband Ben in Chelmsford and is an avid Red Sox and Chiefs fan. If she isn’t training Hailey and Swiftie or crunching numbers, she is probably watching a game!

Helena Rooney, Staff Trainer

Helena began training at Auntie Dog as a volunteer in 2013. She assisted with TDI and CGC tests and as a Courtesy Dog Handler in group classes. She joined our staff in 2014 as a Training Assistant and Camp Coach.

Helena was promoted to Staff Trainer in 2016. She is part of our early morning crew and works with all Day Academy students and their families. Helena’s easy going, logical approach to training and education promote calm transitions and improved communication between dog and owner.

Helena is a Tewksbury resident, mother of three and proud grandmother. Her personal dogs, Sierra, and Karlee are members of the Auntie Dog competition team and are certified therapy dogs with TDI. Helena is an Associate Member of Therapy Dogs International and Vice-Director of TDI Chapter 306. Helena, Sierra and Karlee volunteer several times a week in the Tewksbury area.

Helena is an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, S.T.A.R. Puppy Instructor and a Certified TDI Evaluator.

Paul Lombardo, Assistant Trainer & Camp Coach

Paul, born into a dog loving and training family, is a natural. He has volunteered at Auntie Dog since he was 10 years old. He has helped at countless Therapy Dog Tests and Canine Good Citizen evaluations.

Paul assists with Group Pet Obedience classes, is a Camp Coach and participates in many private lessons and Camp outings.

Paul enjoys video games and four wheeling when not working or going to school. Paul attends Shawsheen Valley Technical High School.

Ava Clark, Training & Kennel Assistant

Ava joined the Auntie Dog staff in 2022 as an office assistant. It became apparent that she was destined to work with animals. Her calm and gentle approach is perfect for shy Campers. She works to build trust and confidence.

Ava works with our Campers to ensure that playtime and socialization are a part of each day. Campers love her working works and recall practice. Camper Alums are very excited to see her at Graduate School. Ava also manages our Camper Wellness Program to ensure that proper feeding and medication schedules are maintained.

Ava attends Middlesex Community College. When not working or going to school, Ava enjoying walking and training her own dogs, Japanese Chin, Jewels and Golden Retriever, Wallin.