Mission Statement

At Ready, Pup, Go!, my mission is to help new puppy parents confidently navigate the joys and challenges of raising a well-adjusted, happy dog. Bringing a puppy into your life is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially when expectations don’t quite match reality. Through early education, hands-on coaching, and a force-free approach, I provide the tools and support you need to set your puppy up for success. By investing in positive, science-backed training, we can build stronger bonds between people and their dogs—one puppy at a time.

Meet Your Puppy Coach!

headhot image of Michelle Thomas, FFCP (Trainer), waring a black long sleeved shirt with an autumn background
Turning Your Puppy Challenges into Triumphs!

Hi, I’m Michelle Thomas, FFCP (Trainer), your dedicated Puppy Coach and the heart behind Ready, Pup, Go! I’ve been raising and training dogs since I was a teenager, turning my passion for puppy development into a career helping families create lasting connections with their canine companions.

Growing up in a military family, I learned how to adapt to new environments—just like puppies do in their early stages! Now, I call Monroe, WA home, where I share my life with three adventure-loving dogs. Together, we enjoy hiking, off-leash adventures, trick training, nose work, obedience, and agility.

I have spent years leading puppy support groups, helping new owners through the ups and downs of puppyhood. I know firsthand how rewarding—but also how challenging—this journey can be. Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or an experienced dog owner looking for guidance, I’m here to make training easier, more effective, and fun!

Why Work With Me?

There are plenty of dog trainers out there—so why choose Ready, Pup, Go!?

🐶 Puppy Specialist – Unlike general dog trainers, I focus exclusively on puppy development, ensuring your puppy gets the right start in life.

🧡 Force & Fear-Free Training – No harsh corrections, no intimidation. I use science-backed, positive reinforcement methods to build trust and confidence in both you and your pup.

💡 Guidance for the Puppy Blues – Raising a puppy can feel overwhelming. I support new puppy owners through the emotional challenges, helping you feel more confident and less stressed.

🎯 Personalized Coaching – Every puppy is different. I tailor my training to your puppy’s unique personality, your goals, and your lifestyle.

A photo of Zydeco, a black and tan Sheprador (GSD x Lab) who is standing on her back hind legs - she's facing to the right and you can see her in full profile. She is wearing a green harness. There is an arm in a blue sleeve from the right holding a treat and with a finger pointed upwards. The background is a lush dense green forest and grassy meadow
My Approach To Training

Training should be an enjoyable experience—not a stressful one! I believe in making learning fun, rewarding, and achievable for both you and your puppy.

Force and fear-free training means:

Reinforcing good behaviors instead of punishing mistakes

Managing and preventing undesired behaviors before they become habits

Setting puppies up for success while allowing them to be dogs in a human world

Using enrichment-based strategies to fulfill your puppy’s natural needs and instincts

Helping puppies feel safe and confident through positive socialization and thoughtful exposure to new experiences

My goal is to provide practical, real-life training solutions that fit your lifestyle. Whether it’s teaching polite manners, preventing common behavior issues, or fostering a strong foundation for future training, I am here to support you every step of the way.

By focusing on trust and clear communication, I help you build a strong, positive relationship with your puppy. The result? A confident pup who loves to learn and a stress-free training journey for you.

As a Diamond Member of the Grisha Stewart Academy, a Pet Professional Guild Member, a Fear Free Certified Professional, and a Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), I stay up to date with the latest in dog behavior research and training techniques.

Whether you’re welcoming your first puppy or are a seasoned dog owner seeking guidance, I am here to help you and your puppy embark on a successful and joyful journey together. 

What My Clients Say...

Credentials & Affiliations

pet dog ambassador PDA Instructor from pet professional guild badge
Pet Training & Behavior Professional, The pet Professional Guild badge Informed by science, guided by empathy, governed by ethics.
pet dog ambassador PDA Assessor from pet professional guild badge
Doggone Safe Membership Badge
logo for Initiative for force-free dog training www.forcefree-dogtraining.org
Living and Learning with Animals Certificate of Completion in Good Standing 2025
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants Member Logo
fear free certified professional from fearfree pets

Service Areas for In Person

Snohomish County, Bothell, Duvall, and Woodinville Washington