Barbara Long’s involvement in dog training began with a problem pet of her own. She started training her dog with the Animal Protection Society of Orange County (APS) Dog Training Program. She found that working with her dog using positive reinforcement techniques made all the difference — such a difference, in fact, that she went on to assist with, then instruct classes for APS.

 

Barbara began working for the Animal Protection Society of Orange County in 1987, and managed their shelter for five years. A founding member of the APS Dog Training Club , she taught classes for APS and coordinated over 20 continuing education seminars for dog trainers. Barbara also coached the APS Dog Drill Team — a group that performs in parades and competitions. She was named the Grand Marshall of the 2008 Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade.

 

In 2004 she was named the APDT Outstanding Trainer of the Year. She has served as APDT President, Vice-President and Elections Chair and the Conference Committee Chair. In recognition of her service to the organization, the APDT Board named her the 2012 Member of the Year.

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Barbara served two terms on the board of directors of the Chatham Animal Rescue and Education (CARE) and volunteered on their Animal Welfare and Humane Education Committees. In 2007 she was honored as a North Carolina Key Volunteer for her volunteer work at the Orange County Animal Shelter.

 

Barbara is a Master Instructor with the Canine Freestyle Federation and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator.  She trains and competes with her Gordon Setter Ambrose in Rally Obedience and Freestyle and she is working with her English Cocker Spaniel puppy, Rhona.

 

Barbara was profiled in the book Careers with Animals by Willow Sirch