Geralyn Kelly with dog Colt. - DesiLu Photography

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Mandy Haggerson

For the Clemmons Courier

If you or someone you know has a well-behaved dog, chances are they have crossed paths with Geralyn Kelly, owner of Elite Canine. Kelly always thought that when she grew up one day that she would become a police officer. She quickly learned that would not be possible because of height requirements in New Jersey where she lived.

“Being only 5 feet tall, I had a teacher that I will never forget, who was so upset for me because she knew it was my dream to become a police officer,” said Kelly. 

While that was frustrating for Kelly, it would end up leading her to a different professional calling that would serve the community in another capacity. For the past 20-plus years Kelly has been working with dogs and their owners on training and obedience for both sides of the leash. 

The journey began when Kelly started working in a doggie daycare, and then loved it so much she immersed herself in training.

“I learned everything from ethology, the scientific study of animal behavior to learning theory, understanding how dogs learn,” said Kelly. “To be a great dog trainer, you must know everything about them from their origins, background, recent changes in breeds and how their minds work.”

Kelly is very committed to continuing her education by constantly challenging herself at seminars with educators like Ian Dunbar, Sophia Yin, Victoria Stillwell and Suzanne Hetts. “I am dedicated to learning from others, and sharing it with our community,” said Kelly. 

“When I began working out of the Forsyth Humane Society, it was a wonderful way to reach so many adopters that came through those doors that had good intentions of adopting and bringing home a dog,” said Kelly. “I have always wanted to be a resource to families who love their new family member, but not always understand what is needed from the dog’s perspective to make that transition a success. I love to bridge that gap, and create a successful relationship.”

Respected for being a strong advocate for “force-free” training, Kelly believes that it’s imperative not to utilize prong or shock collars to create that relationship with their new furry family member.

“I believe it’s not only possible, but essential to have positive reinforcement when teaching dogs obedience and manners. When your dog fears or feels coerced into doing something, it destroys the bond you’re trying to build,” said Kelly. “My goal is to give the dogs and humans the necessary tools to establish a strong and trusting relationship without those methods.” 

Most days Kelly can be found working with clients individually. “I used to do more group classes, but I have found that one-on-ones with clients has been where I have been needed most. For example, I’ll go to a family’s home that is working with their dog that is constantly pulling and just needs to learn how to walk properly. I’ll take that dog to places where dogs are allowed and work on those manners and skills,” said Kelly. “Easily excitable dogs that have strength and like to pull is a big one for many dog owners. Working with people one-on-one allows me to address any obedience and training issue as it happens. It also provides more flexibility for people with busy work schedules which is why I can also come during the day to let dogs out and spend time with them. It gives people peace of mind that their dog is getting exercise and attention, and also learning good behavior at the same time.

“I love the relationships I have built with my clients (both humans and dogs). I have met a lot of people through the Forsyth Humane Society. I have always offered any of their fosters (and any rescue) to come bring their dog to my class for free while they stay in their home. I believe it’s important to give back, and helping a dog while they are waiting for their forever family is something that I am passionate about.”

Kelly said that there is one location in particular that she utilizes in her training.

“There are many times you’ll also find me at Tucker’s Tap Yard. It has so much space, and I’m able to work with the dogs in such a wonderful environment, it’s really been great for our community,” said Kelly of the 12,000-square-foot outdoor fenced in yard. 

While the majority of Kelly’s work has been with training other people’s dogs to become well behaved family members, she has also created Elite Canine’s Comfort Dogs. This group of well-trained therapy dogs provide much-anticipated visits to local places including: SECU Family House of Winston-Salem, Brookstown, Creekside Terrace, Brighton Gardens, Hospice, Ronald McDonald House of Winston, and many more. With countless awards bestowed to Elite Canine’s Comfort Dog team, Kelly is most excited that those efforts continue to grow.

“We even have a Canine Cuddle Station which we like to have at events in the area,” said Kelly of ALS: Walk for the Cure, Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk and Make-a-Wish Picnic in the Plaza.

Because Kelly has had such positive feedback for her dog training and programs that benefit the community, she has often been asked to consider the cat side too.

“I’m currently working on a curriculum for socializing kittens. Oftentimes when they are rescued from outside, they can be a little spicy,” said Kelly. “In fact, I have one of my own that was just like that. So, stay tuned for more information on that to come.” 

If you are a rescuer who wants to help your foster dog develop manners and obedience, run, don’t walk to Elite Canine which can be found at https://elitecanine.net/contact-us.