I'm Tamara, a National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) certified nose work instructor and Odor Recognition Test (ORT) judge who believes every dog has something to teach us. For more than eight years, I've taught K9 Nose Work® classes from beginner through advanced levels. I remain committed to continuing my education through seminars, workshops, camps, and other professional learning opportunities so I can provide my students with current, fun and effective training methods. Whether your goal is competition, enrichment, or simply having fun with your dog, I'm passionate about helping teams build confidence, communication, and trust through the incredible sport of K9 Nose Work®.  

 

I grew up in Hanover, Pennsylvania, and earned a degree in Illustration and Graphic Design. Although my graphic design career eventually took me into the printing and communications industry, where I spent many years as an account manager and customer service representative, my love of dogs ultimately led me to discover a passion that would change the course of my life.

 

When my twin daughters left for college in the fall of 2010, I found myself navigating the transition to an empty nest. Looking for a new purpose and a fresh challenge, I welcomed an English Springer Spaniel puppy into my life. Maya was born on 1/11/11, a date that is impossible to forget!  She was an energetic, spirited dog who clearly needed a job to do. Together, we explored manners classes, rally obedience, agility, tracking, and barn hunt before discovering K9 Nose Work®. It didn't take long for us to fall in love with this performance sport and as her enthusiasm for the sport continued to grow, so did mine.

 

We began competing in NACSW K9 Nose Work® trials in 2013. Maya earned her NW1 title in April of 2014, and together we achieved the Elite Champion title on July 19, 2020. Maya taught me invaluable lessons in patience (often repeatedly), observation, and what it truly means to become a better handler. 

 

My Gone Sniffin logo is based on Maya's distinctive profile and serves as a tribute to the dog who introduced me to this incredible sport. She will always be the inspiration behind my journey and my desire to share what I've learned with others.

 

Today, I have the joy of training and competing with my Icelandic Sheepdog, Sienna. On April 14, 2026, at the age of 5, she made breed history by becoming the first Icelandic Sheepdog to earn the NACSW Elite Champion title. Reaching that milestone together is one of my proudest accomplishments and a testament to the trust, teamwork, and partnership we've built throughout our journey. 

 

As my first herding breed, Sienna has challenged me in entirely new ways. She experiences the world with remarkable awareness and sensitivity. Thunder, fireworks, strong winds, construction, garbage trucks, or even someone carrying an armful of groceries can all feel significant to her. Learning to see the world through Sienna's eyes has made me a more thoughtful trainer and instructor. She reminds me every day that every dog is an individual, and successful training begins by meeting each dog where they are

 

One of the things I enjoy most about teaching is building relationships with my students. Successful nose work training is as much about understanding the person holding the leash as it is understanding the dog. My goal is to help each team develop confidence, communication, and trust while allowing dogs to engage their natural hunting instincts in a fun, rewarding activity. K9 Nose Work® should be enjoyable for both dog and handler. Whether your goal is recreation, competition, or simply strengthening the bond with your canine companion, I look forward to helping you on your journey.