About From the Heart

Barbara De Groodt is the owner of From the Heart Animal Behavior Counseling and Dog Training in Monterey County. The motto of From the Heart is "Respect your pet: train without the pain!”

Barbara has been an animal behavior counselor for over 30 years, learning many years ago it was easier to have an animal do something because it wanted to not because it was afraid not to. Her training practice has made a big difference in how owners interact with their pets. She has been teaching people about respect for their animals and alternate methods of training for the last 30 years.  All programs at From the Heart Dog Training are behavior based rather than the older compulsion based training methods.

Barbara was one of the original founders of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, APDT (under the guidance of Dr. Ian Dunbar); she is also a professional member of IACP and several behavior based organizations. 

In 2005 she was awarded the Devoted Animal Friend of the Year award, given to one person each year from Animal Friends Rescue Project.

She has lectured around the world to veterinary groups, law enforcement agencies, trainers and pet owners. She is a regular speaker at Carrington Career College each semester, addressing the Animal Health department.

In 2011, Barbara was awarded 2010 “Trainer of the Year” ProPlan’s Showdogs of the year awards presented by Dogs in Review, sponsored by Comfort Zone in New York City at the Westminster Dog Show festivities. This award is given to one trainer each year for their work ethic, service to the community, and training philosophy.