Julie Benson
KPA CTP 44905
Administrator
My work with A Sound Beginning began more than a decade ago, when I was brought on to teach group classes and help develop the program’s training curriculum. At the time, I was also serving as Lead Trainer and Behavior Manager at a local animal shelter, which gave me the opportunity to integrate A Sound Beginning’s approach into my work with shelter dogs, adopters, volunteers, and staff.
My path to animal training actually began in the classroom. After earning a degree in Art Education from Northern Illinois University, I spent seven years as a K–12 art teacher before deciding to trade in my crayons for a clicker. I completed the Karen Pryor Academy program in 2013 alongside my rescue Aussie, Scout. Diagnosed as a puppy with generalized anxiety and fear aggression, Scout became one of my greatest teachers, showing me firsthand the importance of patience, empathy, and kindness when working with dogs—especially shelter and rescue dogs whose histories and past experiences may be unknown. That experience helped shape my approach as I shifted my career toward animal behavior, shelter work, and positive reinforcement training.
In addition to leading group dog training classes, I’ve spent the last decade developing curriculum and resources for shelter workers, adopters, and volunteers that focus on canine and feline body language, behavior, and humane handling. I also place a high value on my own continuing education, regularly attending seminars, webinars, and professional conferences to continue learning and growing within the field.
In April 2026, my role with A Sound Beginning expanded when I took over the administrative, social media, and marketing side of the organization. Today, much of my work happens behind the scenes—managing communications, creating educational and promotional content, supporting our classes and events, and helping share the mission and philosophy of A Sound Beginning with a wider community. It has been especially meaningful to return to a program I helped shape years ago and contribute to its continued growth in a new way.
Outside of ASB, I’ve always loved making things and working with my hands (hence the art degree). I combined my love for art and animals into Pawsitively Inspired, where I design and build custom handcrafted pieces—many inspired by the animals we share our lives with. My work incorporates a wide range of materials, along with everything from traditional tools and techniques to modern making technology. I also enjoy cheering on the Cubs and hanging out at my home in the Western Suburbs with my husband Brandon, our dog River, and our small army of funny felines.
Professional Certifications
Karen Pryor Clicker Training Academy Certified Partner
Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer
Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed
Certified Trick Dog Instructor, Do More with Your Dog
AKC S.T.A.R. and CGC, CGCA, CGCU Evaluator
AKC Trick Dog Evaluator