As a San Diego native, Natalie has been working in the professional field of veterinary medicine since 1980, and received her California RVT certification in 1987.
In the mid to late 1990's, with a strong interest in post injury rehabilitation and the emerging field of physical therapy for animals, Natalie began working with Physical Therapists and Veterinarians in Los Angeles. By 1999 she was one of only three people in Southern California working in this specialized field, and the only veterinary professional.
Between 1999 - 2001 Natalie was encouraged by a physical therapist in the Los Angeles area to continue my education and hands-on experience. She attended the First International Symposium of Animal Physical Therapy, and then went on to complete course work in Canine Physical Rehabilitation at the University of Tennessee/Knoxville. Through these training and education programs, Natalie has acquired various certificates in Canine Rehabilitation, as well as massage and pet nutrition.
In 2002, a strong desire to help homeless animals led her to shift her focus to shelter animals, where she worked behind the scenes in the medical center for five years. Since then, she has been helping local dog rescue organizations, and has become an advocate for homeless pets, especially dogs with physical and/or behavioral challenges. Thankfully, her husband and animal kids at home have the patience needed to help with the homeless pups, so they can reach their adoption potential.
In 2007, through a special rescue dog named Sadie who had a bad knee (torn cruciate ligament), Natalie encountered Alison White and The Total Dog, Swim & Gym, and immediately began volunteering there.
In June of 2009, with Carol Williams RVT, The Total Dog was purchased and it's purpose renewed - the rest is history - in the making.
As co-owner of this innovative center for animal well-being, we are developing relationships and working closely with the veterinarians of San Diego, Orange and Riverside Counties. By responding to pet owner demand, and working with the veterinarians, we are able to provide a complete fitness center for The Total Dog.
Natalie considers herself fortunate to have the passion, training and education to do what she is meant to do – help pets get on their feet again. She is available Tuesday - Saturday for fitness training, injury recovery, massage therapy and behavior counseling.
You are encouraged to visit the facility, meet the team - let us know how we can help you help your dog to live long and pawsper!
Professional Affiliations:
San Diego Veterinary Medical Association
California Veterinary Medical Association
Association of Canine Water Therapy
International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
American Canine Sports Medicine Association
Related Coursework & Certificates:
Basic Science for the Animal Physical Therapist, Orthopaedic Sect. APTA
Introduction to Small Animal Physical Therapy, NES/lab Clark & Gross
Canine Physical Rehabilitation Short Course, UTCVM/lect & lab
Canine Rehabilitation - I , NES/UTCVM
Canine Rehabilitation - II, NES/UTCVM
Massage Technician, Healing Hands Institute
Carol Williams, R.V.T.
A veteran RVT, and co-owner of The Total Dog. Carol recently completed her educational requirements for the University of Tennesee's Canine Rehabilitation Program, and is due to get her certification soon. Carol is currently available part time for canine swim therapy and fitness training.
Alison Spencer, founder of The Total Dog Canine Swim Center, offers services in dog behavior and communication. Her fascination with dogs started when she was a small girl growing up on a farm in upstate New York. Her family bred and raised Labrador Retrievers. She has always had a special connection with animals.
In 1982 Alison moved out to California to be closer to her mom. While in California she earned a Bachelor's of Business Management from National University in San Diego. She also studied dog training at Animal Behavior College in Northridge and received a certificate of completion in "Canine Water Therapy" from La Paw Spa in Sequim Washington. In June of 2006 Alison also attended and received a certificate of completion from Carol Gurney's Heart Talk Program.
Alison has always loved dogs and after college she started her own business, Canine Playtime Experts, a dog walking and training company. She built a loyal cliental base walking, training and socializing her client's furry friends. In 2005 she added Canine Water Therapy and in 2006 Animal Communication. After she finished training in Canine Water Therapy, Alison opened The Total Dog Canine Swim Center.
Alison looks forward to seeing you all at the pool. Please feel free to email her with any questions or concerns.
Jennifer Aho - Canine Behavior Specialist and Trainer. Jennifer has the perfect balance of canine behavior expertise, patience and compassion. She utilizes swimming to help her behaviorally challenged clients to become balanced, and happy. Jen is available Friday mornings at The Total Dog.
Cindy Shields - Certified Canine Massage Therapist
Cindy has been involved with dogs for many years, her background includes her own pets as well as rescue work with local organizations. She has a strong knowledge of canine behavior, which complements her massage work.
Cindy completed an extensive study consisting of more than 700 hour of coursework and hands-on experience involving canine anatomy, physiology, orthopedic pathology, sports injury treatment, the mechanics of body movement, as well as canine nutrition.
Cindy's approach to massage is to observe movement, do a thorough hands-on analysis of the dog to find the areas that are in need of immediate attention. She then uses range-of-motion testing and passive-release techniques before moving into an appropriate massage method.