Fitdog is proud to introduce a new addition to our class offerings – Cardio Tricks! It is led by the very talented Szashe Rowland and begins weekly on October 2nd. We recently sat down with Szashe so that you can learn all about her!

Interview with Szashe Rowland

What made you want to become a dog trainer?

Prior to my career as a dog trainer, I was a fashion designer. In 2008, I decided to take a year off to travel and volunteer. I became a volunteer at the Pasadena Humane Society. The next year, I was awarded Volunteer of the Year out of over 400 other volunteers for Behavior Modification in dogs. That night, I made the decision to go back to a school to become a certified dog trainer and received my certification in 2010. I want to save dogs lives.

What do you like the most about working with dogs?

What’s not to like (laughs). I get to make a difference everyday. My main goal is to end euthanasia in healthy dogs, in my lifetime. The number one reason dogs are relinquished to shelters is due to behavioral issues. Also, dogs love unconditionally.

Do you have any dogs of your own?

I have 2 dogs. Riley is an 8 ½ year old Beagle. He adores being in front of the camera and giving love to everyone he meets. Freddie is a 6-year-old Terrier mix. He is extremely attuned to people’s feelings. He loves to snuggle and is beautifully affectionate.

What do you love most about teaching Cardio Tricks in particular?

Dogs need a job to do. They need mental and physical stimulation. Unfortunately, most dogs in urban areas are not performing the job they were bred to do. The cardio portion gets the dog active. The tricks portion shows the fun side of dog training. Everyone loves to show off their dog’s tricks. My clients smile the most when their dog performs an adorable trick.

What is the best advice you can give to dog parents for keeping up with training at home?

Put it into their daily schedule; even if it is 10-20 minutes a day. They are bonding with their dog, and giving them a sense of purpose. Dogs love performing tasks and figuring out puzzles. Plus – a happy dog is a tired and less destructive dog.

What are some simple exercises someone can do at home with their dog?

Take a bow, spin, roll over, go find (basic nose work), weaving through your legs, or jumping over a hurdle.

Sign up for Cardio Tricks!

Ready to sign up for Cardio Tricks class? Create an account online to set up an assessment for your dog. Cardio Tricks is a recreational class where dogs attend without owners. You choose your pick up and drop off locations and we’ll come get your dog from work, home or pet sitter/daycare. Cardio Tricks is open to locations in Santa Monica, West LA, Beverly Hills and Brentwood. Sign up and find out what your dog can do!