Dawn and Rusty Penwell with English Labradors
Charm, Razzle and Magic. Dawn and Rusty own
Best Friends Dog Training in East Englewood.
Working with animals is her true passion, and
she is locally known in Englewood as the dog
whisperer.
“The dogs keep me going, and I will never stop
doing what I do,” she said. “Helping owners
understand them is important to the happiness
of the dog and the family. These dogs want to do
well and please their owners.”
She presently has about 50 dogs in training.
She’s worked with many of the owners for more
than 15 years; some owners have had three or
four dogs that have been trained by Dawn.
Over the years, she has trained more than
1,400 dogs. She also teaches group and individual
classes with owners on their property.
“Sometimes the dogs do best in their own
natural environment.” And she has worked and
trained many service dogs.
Suncoast Humane Society is another local
organization that offers dog obedience classes.
Bess Walmsley teaches a six-week basic obedience
class for people who add new furry
friends to their families.
“Many pet owners who have adopted dogs
through Suncoast Humane Society sign up for
the classes,” she said, “Phil Snyder (CEO of
Suncoast Humane Society) started the
“The most challenging
thing about being a dog
trainer is working with
the owners”