Our pledge to you:
to be the dog experts for your family! We promise to stay on top on the research and training to be able to pass that onto you and your pup through engaging daycare programs, group training classes, puppy programs, private training, and behavior consults.
LAURA SCHORRAK, Owner
B.S. – University of Wisconsin-Madison
Licensed Family Dog Mediator – Support Services Division
CPACO-Certified Professional Animal Care Operator
CPACM-Certified Professional Animal Care Manager
CPACP-Certified Professional Animal Care Provider
Fear Free Daycare & Boarding Professional
Certified Predation Substitution Instructor
Drink with your Dog Instructor
My professional journey with dogs, encompassing training, behavior, and daycare, began in 2004, but my passion for behavior and sciences has been a lifelong pursuit. During my time at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, where I majored in Bacteriology, I eagerly filled my electives with various behavior and animal science courses. This enthusiasm allowed me to graduate in 2001 with a double major in Zoology, with a special emphasis on animal behavior.
After years of working in various research laboratories, my journey with dogs began in 2004 when I adopted my first adult dog, Kelly, a purebred chocolate Labrador, who landed in rescue after developing a seizure condition at just over a year old. Kelly led me on a path of discovery about health and wellness, including exploring alternatives to traditional medications and diets, as well as training and behavior to understand and meet his needs. Despite many veterinarians recommending euthanasia due to the difficulty in controlling his seizures, I was determined to give this wonderful boy the life he deserved. Through years of fine-tuning his diet, medication, exercise, enrichment, and more, I was blessed with over 10 years with the best teacher I could have asked for. Kelly not only enriched my life but also introduced me to many dog professionals and set me on what would become my calling.
In 2004, while seeking a trainer for guidance with Kelly, I met the founder of The Dog Den. My first class there was transformative, and I quickly became involved, assisting with classes and working in the daycare, soaking up all things dog. Fun fact – I was working with the dogs in the daycare on the very first day we were open for business! Over the next six years, my involvement with The Dog Den grew, eventually leading me to manage the facility. In 2011, when The Dog Den was put up for sale, I seized the opportunity and purchased the business that had captured my heart.
Taking ownership of The Dog Den marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life – one of business ownership. Any small business owner can attest to the challenges this path entails, but for me, the key to overcoming these obstacles has always been my team. They are my focus, a group of individuals who share and support my vision for dog care and education.
The journey didn't stop there; in 2016, we expanded with an eastside location, and in 2017, The Puppy Den came into existence, furthering our commitment to providing comprehensive care and education for dogs and their people.
Inspired by Kelly, I have pursued education to better understand and meet the needs of dogs, applying that knowledge every day. I acknowledge that none of this has been achieved in isolation – my team, the heart and soul of The Dog Den, is the reason for the company's award-winning status. Over the years, we have developed and continue to refine amazing programs that help people and their dogs live fulfilling lives together. These programs evolve as we learn and grow. We take pride in The Dog Den & The Puppy Den's offerings of daycare, enrichment, training, and behavior programs, all stemming from modern research and utilizing positive, evidence-based methods for dogs and their people to understand each other and live fulfilling lives together.
ANG GILDEA, CPACM, CTDI, FDM, Fear Free Certified, Canine Enrichment Technician
FITCHBURG CO-COORDINATOR, FIDO PHOTOGRAPHER (AKA. THAT CRAZY LADY THAT DRESSES UP PUPS FOR FUN HOLIDAY PHOTOS), LEAD SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, GROUP CLASS TRAINING INSTRUCTOR, TRICKS INSTRUCTOR
Certifications: CPACP, CPACM, CGC and Puppy Star Evaluator, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Ang
Joined the Team: 4/2014
Why you chose to work with dogs: I wanted a job that I enjoyed. I didn't want to dread going to work everyday. I love the fact that my job never feels like work and that I get to be a part of this family
Favorite Part of your job: I just love seeing those lightbulb moments, whether in classes or in daycare. When I see that lightbulb go off for a dog, I can't help but smile!
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I'd be a senior lab. Happy go lucky and up for anything, whether that's hiking at my favorite park or just chilling at home.
BREANNA HUSTON
PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: Breanna or Bre
Joined the Team: 10/2017
Why you chose to work with dogs: I want to make a positive difference in the lives of dogs and their people, both in training classes and every day at daycare. Dogs love to learn and I love having the opportunity to aid in that process and see these dogs succeed.
Favorite Part of your job:Watching a dog get excited when they learn something new. The way they bounce and prance about with excitement about doing something right is absolutely adorable!
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: Golden retriever
Other Insights: Everyday comes with its own opportunities, often disguised as challenges, that give us the chance to grow and to learn more about how we can make our corner of the world better. By facing these challenges we are able to grow and by sharing what we've learned, that's how we can make the world a better place. I am so blessed to be working in the corner of the world that happens.
CATT HUSTAD, CPACP, CVT
PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: CPACP, CVT, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Catt
Joined The Team: 6/2011
Why you chose to work with dogs: I fell in love with learning how to speak dog and how to work with all the different types of breeds.
Favorite Part of your job: I love the training that we do. So many options and all Positive Reinforcement. It's always so amazing to see the light bulb moment with any of the dogs and watching the clients work with there dogs bring joy to my heart.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: If I could be any breed it would be an Irish Wolfhound. They are such amazing creatures. Gentle giants and I love watching them run and snuggle with family.
Other Insights: I currently have an almost 12 year old pug named Frankie who helped me fall in love with crazy clown breed. She is my heart dog and will always hold a special place in my soul. She is full of love and sass for such a small package. I also have a Bernese Mountain Dog puppy named Dierks who is full of life and energy and is just a goon.
CHARLIE OPEL
PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: Charlie
Joined The Team: 1/2019
Why you chose to work with dogs: Working with animals has been a passion of mine since I can remember. It's a very rewarding experience to have the opportunity to aid in the growth of any animal. Working with dogs and learning their behavior is an infinite learning experience.
Favorite Part of your job: My favorite part of working with dogs is witnessing the dogs grow from puppy to adult. I have the privilege of being able to build a bond with an animal and watch them grow into well behaved sweethearts. Being a part of that process and giving support to see the dogs succeed is my favorite part.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: Hands down I would be a pitbull. Overly energetic but when you least expect it🌻.
Other Insights: All it takes is being calm, patient, and building a positive bond with a dog. Stay calm and put in the work. It's worth it, I promise.
CHELSEA MENTINK
FITCHBURG CO-COORDINATOR, SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER
Certifications: CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Chelsea
Joined the team: 4/2007
Why you chose to work with dogs: As a child, when asked what I wanted to be when I grow up, my answer was always to play with dogs! Dogs have and always will be my best friends.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: Not entirely sure, but most likely a sporting breed.
DEB CRAWLEY, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, PST-CI, CVT, CPACM, FDM, Fear Free Certified
PRIVATE LESSON COORDINATOR, LEAD SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, LEAD CLASS INSTRUCTOR
Certifications: CBCC-KA, CPACM, CPACP, CPDT-KA, CGC and Puppy Star Evaluator, CVT, Completion of Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Deborah or Deb
Joined the team: 2008
Why you chose to work with dogs: I came to the Dog Den as a client. I had a reactive dog that I needed help with. I had no idea at the time that this experience was going to change my life. Working with dogs turned out to be a dream come true, especially since I have loved animals my whole life.
Favorite Part of your job: My favorite part of working at The Dog Den is basically, everything. From helping clients and dogs create bonds and setting up training plans for them, to just cuddle time while working with the pack. The educational opportunities that are provided are exceptional. This allows for all of me to be a creative thinker to help all the dogs in my, care to live out theirs lives in a carefree manner whether they are here with us or at home with their families.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I am asked quite frequently which breed I would be if I was a dog. Honestly, I love all the breeds and would have a hard time picking just one. However, I can see the clown side of a Weimariner in all of us.
Other Insights: I would just like to thank Laura and all the wonderful clients for giving me the opportunity to work and play with their loved ones.
DIANE HUCK, CPACP, CPACM, Fear Free Certified
EAST CO-COORDINATOR, SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Diane
Joined the team: 12/2015
Why you chose to work with dogs: I started working at the Dog Den after I realized I wanted to learn more about dogs and their behavior. After researching local facilities, The Dog Den really stood out because they incorporate training into the playgroup atmosphere. I have learned SO MUCH about dog behavior and training and how important it is to help dogs learn what we would like them to do versus just telling them what they shouldn’t be doing! I love the fact that every day I am helping a dog become the best version of him/herself!!
Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of working at The Dog Den (there are SO many) would have to be watching the dogs in our care blossom and grow! Nothing is more fulfilling then to see a dog happy and confident while playing and learning!
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: If I could be any dog breed, I would be a Labrador Retriever because I’m obsessed with food and love to eat!!
Other Insights: I just would like to say what an honor and privilege it is to take care of your dog while in our care! They are all so special and unique and a part of our family, THANK YOU!
KATY VIKE, FDM, CPACP
PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: Katy
Joined the team: 4/2019
Why you chose to work with dogs: Helping dogs learn and grow is very meaningful to me. Dogs give humans so much, and I love contributing to their success and happiness.
Favorite part of your job: Building relationships with the pups.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I would love to be a Golden Retriever or Lab. I have always found their joy and enthusiasm very endearing. However, I think it would be more accurate to say I'd be a terrier; small, but scrappy, smart, but stubborn, loving, but independent.
KATHLEEN OZIMEK, FDM, CPACP, Fear Free Certified
LEAD SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER, EVENT AND SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Certifications: Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Kathleen
Joined the team: 9/2019
Why you chose to work with dogs: Dogs are our family. Helping the four legged members have a great day at daycare while the two legged members can go about their day worry free is priceless. I also love helping dogs and their owners learn how to communicate better, and watching their relationship grow!
Favorite part of your job: I love earning the trust of our shy dogs, and helping our newer dogs fit in!
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I’m most likely a golden retriever. I’m super enthusiastic, cuddly, and a little quirky!
LAURYN ROSS, CPDT-KA, CPACP
LEAD SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, CLASS INSTRUCTOR, PRIVATE TRAINING INSTRUCTOR, ENRICHMENT COORDINATOR, ONE-ON-ONE COORDINATOR
Certifications: CPDT-KA, CGC and Star Puppy Evaluator, CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: Lauryn
Joined the team: 9/2012
Why you chose to work with dogs: I started working at The Dog Den as a part time job while doing my undergrad at UW Madison and quickly fell in love with the animal training and behavior world. Once I graduated I stuck around, and have never looked back!
Favorite Part of your Job: My favorite part of this job is how I've been able to make a career doing what I love. I never have the same day twice, and there truly isn't anything better than unlimited puppy kisses every single day! My passion is working with our puppies at The Puppy Den in both classes and daycare, and being a part of helping them grow into truly wonderful dogs.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I would be an Australian Shepherd that didn't read the chapter in the manual about being hyper. More specifically, I would be my dog, Comet: a people-pleaser, up for a good adventure, but a couch potato at heart, and loyal and full of love to those closest to him. I guess we are a pretty good match for one another.
LEIGH ANSON, CPDT-KA, CPACP, FDM
GROUP TRAINING CLASS INSTRUCTOR
Certifications: CPDT-KA, CGC and Star Puppy Evaluator, CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Leigh
Joined the team: 10/2015
Why you chose to work with dogs: When our dog, Avett, went through All Star classes, I absolutely feel in love with dog training. Through that experience I realized how training and communicating with your dog can truly strengthen your bond, and I knew I wanted to share that with others. After working in the training department and part time with daycare, I got hooked and went full time. It's been an amazing experience to grow and learn!
Favorite Part of your job: I absolutely love watching owners work with their dogs in classes and attend our events together. Helping owners with their dogs and growing puppies is probably the most rewarding part of this job for me. The bond between people and dogs can be so beautiful and heartwarming.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: Without a doubt, I'd be a spaniel of some kind (English Cocker, Springer, Boykin, Brittany, etc)! We share a love of learning new things, outdoor adventures, and spending as much time as possible with loved ones.
Other Insights: Thanks to all our amazing dogs and clients! I'm so grateful you share your loved ones with me and fill my days with wiggle bottoms!
MACKENZY GROTH-PRICE, CPACP
DAYCARE STAFF TRAINING COORDINATOR, SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: MacKenzy or MacKen, Mack, Kenzy (I will answer to all of them)
Joined the team: 8/2016
Why you chose to work with dogs: I started working at The Dog Den because I wanted a job that lets me work with my hands and learn more about animal behavior. The fact that I have been given a chance to work with dogs, their owners, and my amazing coworkers everyday is a huge bonus!
Favorite Part of your job: My favorite part of this job is growing with the dogs everyday, especially the dogs and puppies that started daycare at the same time I did. It's inspiring to see how far we've come.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: If I could be any dog breed I would be either a corgi or a basset hound.
NICK DAVID, CPACP, CPACM, FDM, Fear Free Certified
THE PUPPY DEN COORDINATOR, LEAD SENIOR PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: CPACP, Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201, Pet First Aid Certified
Name: Nick
Joined the team: 10/2015
Why you chose to work with dogs: I started at The Dog Den searching for dog experience for when I would apply for Vet School. I fell in love with the job, the dogs and never left!
Favorite part of your job: Getting to work and help puppies who may be shy find the confidence to make friends and feel comfortable within their pack of friends.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I would most likely be a husky, since I tend to be stubborn and loving all at the same time. I also talk, quite a bit once you get to know me!
Other Insights: I love learning and growing with each and every one of your dogs that come here. Thanks so much for the opportunity to work with such amazing people and animals everyday.
SAM STOIBER
PLAYGROUP LEADER, ASSISTANT TRAINER
Certifications: Completion of The Dog Gurus Knowing Dogs 101 & 201
Name: Samuel, Sam, or Sammie
Joined the team: 6/2019
Why you chose to work with dogs: I work with dogs because, ever since I was a little kid, I have loved every single dog I’ve ever met. They’re all such unique and beautiful creatures that I spend time loving and cherishing. I could never find a better friend than a dog!
Favorite part of your job: I love everything, but my favorite moments are when you spend special moments with each and every dog. Nothing warms my heart more than a shy pup opening up to me or when a dog and I create a special little ritual to give each other cuddles.
If you could be any dog breed who/what would you be: I think I would be a Boston Terrier because of my enthusiasm and tenacity for the things I feel passionate about. I also think that people tend to underestimate me because I look cute and cuddly, but I definitely have a wild side!
Other Insights: About 10 years ago, when my mom and I brought my dog (see the little lovebug above) to Puppy Social Hour at the Dog Den, I swore up and down that I wanted to work at a doggy daycare when I grew up. And, by some wacky twist of fate, I ended up here while looking for another job! I couldn’t be happier with the way things have turned out.