Barbara Schwerdt, B.A., CPDT-KA, CNWI

Barbara Schwerdt, B.A., CPDT-KA, CNWI, has been training dogs professionally since 2000. She is one of the seven Founding Instructors in the National Association of Canine Scent Work [NACSW} Instructors’ program, earning her certification in early 2009. Since that time, she has expanded her role with the NACSW by developing training materials and conducting workshops for students at the NW1, NW2, and NW3 levels throughout the country. In addition to teaching K9 Nose Work classes and conducting workshops, she also serves the organization as a designated Senior Faculty member, Trial Judge, and Certifying Official.

Barbara and her K9 Nose Work partner Landis earned the coveted NW3 Elite title in June 2012 and were proud to take 2nd place in the 2013 National Invitationals!

Some of Barbara’s other accomplishments include the founding of Amanté Dog Training, a division of Safe at Home Pet Care, a business Barbara owns with her husband Gerry. They specialize in in-home care of companion animals and have since added professional dog training services. In addition, by day, Barbara is a corporate trainer, helping people to be more effective and efficient in their daily work lives. Barbara holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Deaf Studies from California State University, Northridge. She is a Certified member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, the National Association of Canine Scent Work, American Society for Training and Development, Different Spokes of Southern California Cycling Club, and Shifting Gears Cycling Club and is a Training Ride Leader for AIDS/LifeCycle.

Barbara enjoys long-distance road bicycling, and participates in the AIDS/LifeCycle bicycle ride, a 545-mile bicycle ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles each June. Over 2,200 cyclists raise millions of dollars each year which assist people afflicted with HIV and AIDS who cannot afford to pay for treatment.

She shares her home with her very supportive husband, Gerry, along with their Labrador Jarrah, and their cat, Parker.