Wag-n-Smile is owned and operated by me, Diana Knittle. After retiring from Federal service with Customs and Border Protection, I moved to Oregon to pursue my passion for working with our canine friends. I was born into a home with dogs and have had at least one dog ever since. I will forever find amazement with their capacity for empathy, intelligence, and love; they ask so little of us humans and give so much.
I currently have two little ones of my own. One of our favorite daily activities is practicing known commands and tricks, as well as learning new ones. I worked with local dog rescue organizations for a decade prior to my relocation to Oregon, fostering, transporting, assisting intakes, and facilitating adoption events. Upon relocation to Eugene, I became a volunteer with Greenhill Humane Society and represented them on the weekly KMTR 1st Avenue Pet of the Week TV broadcast until the pandemic stay-at-home guidance was issued.
I am an Animal Behavior College (ABC) Certified Dog Obedience Trainer. My mentor during my studies hired me upon completion. It was my great privilege to work for her in whatever capacity she needed, promoting understanding, mutual respect, and communications between humans and their canine kids. In addition, to my training certification, I am a member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters.
After the devastating experience of having one of my own furkids die a premature death in an institutional boarding facility, I set a goal to provide an in-home boarding alternative. After getting settled in Eugene, I opened Wag -n- Smile to provide boarding as well as training services. During the 2020 pandemic shutdown, I relocated to Corvallis, OR.
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