Ann R. Howie…
began training dogs professionally in 2000. She has brought animals and people together professionally through animal-assisted interactions (licensed as a counselor) since 1989. In 2017, Ann changed the focus of her services to canine wellness. Ann is completing her credential as a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) through the University of Tennessee School of Veterinary Medicine and FitPAWS ®. A CCFT is trained in canine assessment, body mechanics, anatomy, functional movement, behavior, nutrition, and injury prevention and care. (She expects to complete her credential in the summer of 2017.) She also has a certificate as a Canine Conditioning Coach. As a result of her experience and training, Ann is skilled with dogs of many breeds and breed types and with people of diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Dogs in Action…
is a registered entity of Human-Animal Solutions, PLLC, which incorporated in 2001 with Ann R. Howie as owner, director, and manager. Dogs in Action will be unique in having the only Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) between Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington. Dogs in Action focuses on compassionate and respectful handling of your dog’s needs. Ann compassionately assesses your dog’s 
condition and designs a plan of action that meets your dog’s specific needs and accommodates his/her physical limitations/condition. Ann is supervised by a veterinarian and will work closely with your veterinarian. Dogs in Action is also unique in its collaborative relationship with complementary healthcare providers (canine massage, Reiki, Healing Touch, veterinary chiropractor, veterinary acupuncturist, etc.).
Here is what Dogs in Action does for your dog:
- Assess functionality and performance
- Develop an individual plan of action
- Formulate fitness training for all ages and abilities
- Provide prehab conditioning before surgery
- Create a conditioning program for canine athletes, working dogs, show dogs, and pet dogs
- Design achievable activities to keep senior dogs active and comfortable
- Prepare a fun and manageable exercise program for weight management
- Provide information about complementary providers (massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, Reiki, Healing Touch, etc.)
- Plans can include both in-clinic sessions and in-home exercises
When I work with a client, I start by asking the owner to talk with his/her veterinarian and obtain veterinary approval for an exercise program. I also ask the owner to complete a history form and review and sign an informed consent statement before I conduct a physical assessment of the dog. I then develop a plan of action in coordination with the owner. My plans are tailored to each dog’s specific needs and abilities. A total health plan addresses five areas: strength, balance, flexibility, cardio, and mental fitness. Due to practical and physical limitations, some canine clients have plans that address fewer than those five areas. I welcome the primary and/or specialty veterinarian’s input. I teach owners how to teach their dogs to perform the exercises, and I provide written instructions. In follow-up visits, I assure that correct form is being followed, and I design additional exercises as needed for continued improvement or changes in direction.
*These photos show Lori Stevens, CCFT, working with my dog, Gusto.