Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamela Cantor.
Hi Tamela, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Animals have been my entire world since I was 13. That’s when I started pet-sitting after an HOA newsletter made me the neighborhood’s go-to person for anything with fur (feathers or scales). By high school, I had a full-fledged pet-care company and was leaving school at noon once I got my license so that I could run it.
Over the years, I built and sold several pet businesses. At my biggest, I had 12 sitters and walkers working for me. When I decided to move to Portland, I sold that company (it’s still going strong) and, almost without realizing it, found myself right back in the pet world — this time adding dog training.
I fell hard for training and got certified through the Karen Pryor Academy, one of the toughest force-free programs in the country (only about half the class passes). I also graduated at the top of my Tellington TTouch class, which gave me a unique set of skills most trainers don’t have. Today I help people with all kinds of behavior challenges and, more importantly, help them build a real connection with their dogs. I truly love what I do — and the reviews I have seem to agree.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t always been a smooth road. COVID forced me to completely rethink how I worked and get creative with my services. Then I got very sick with Lyme’s disease and had to step away from my career entirely until I was well enough to return. There was a point when I had to face the real possibility that I might be disabled for the rest of my life—and that was terrifying.
But I was determined to get into remission and come back. I’m happy to say I’m doing much better now and can do my work just as effectively, if not more so, than before.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I run a professional pet-care service that combines in-home sitting, cage-free boarding, and force-free dog training. For over 30 years I’ve helped pet parents leave town with complete peace of mind, knowing their animals are receiving individualized attention in a real home environment rather than a traditional kennel.
As a CPDT-KA certified trainer, I also work one-on-one with dogs and their owners on behavior challenges—everything from leash reactivity and anxiety to everyday manners and enrichment. The goal is always the same: create calm, confident dogs and more connected relationships between pets and the people who love them.
Every client and every animal is different, so the work stays varied and rewarding. Whether I’m boarding a pack of dogs, teaching a new skill, or simply giving a nervous pet the quiet space they need, my focus is on delivering reliable, high-quality care that makes life easier for the humans and happier for the animals.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been lucky to have some wonderful people in my corner. My teachers — Debbie Potts, Helix Fairweather, and Carmelita Aufderheide — each played a huge role in shaping the trainer I am today. They pushed me, challenged me, and gave me tools I’m still grateful for.
Collaborating with other pet sitters early on was also invaluable. We learned the ropes together and built a network of mutual referrals that made everyone stronger. Heidi Hoyt has been a great resource.
On the personal side, my husband has been my biggest cheerleader, with my mom and best friend right there beside him. Their steady support has meant everything.
And I can’t forget the veterinarians who’ve watched my results and started recommending me for training. Those referrals have been a real gift and a constant reminder that the work is making a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.barkmeowpdx.com
- Instagram: @barkmeowpdx
