In the Media
Over the years, my work has been recognized in a variety of ways, including professional awards, live radio appearances answering dog training and behavior questions, and a few educational television projects. Together, these experiences reflect a long-standing commitment to helping dogs and their people learn and live together more successfully.
Recognition & Awards
IAABC Recognition
Dog Division Member of the Year Award — 2009
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
In 2009, I received the Dog Division Member of the Year Award from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) in recognition of my service to the organization and the profession.
From 2008 through 2011, I served as Chair of the Dog Division, Co-Chair of the Application Review Panel Committee, and as a member of the Education Committee.
Best of Boston
Best Dog Trainer — 2011
Boston magazine
“After suffering through trainers who merely barked advice (our ears are still ringing), we were overjoyed to discover owner Vera Wilkinson’s quiet expertise. Certified both as a dog-behavior consultant and professional dog trainer—and armed with more than a decade of experience—Wilkinson begins by watching you interact with Fido at home. Only then does she offer suggestions. She takes her time, and you and your dog will end up the better for it.”
I was honored that The Cooperative Dog was named Best Dog Trainer by Boston magazine in 2011.
Television
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman
DJ & Onyx’s Agility Challenge
WGBH / PBS, 2007
On July 3, 2007, I filmed a segment for the children’s television show Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman on WGBH-TV. The challenge was to work with a child and dog unknown to me and help transform them into an agility team ready to compete in a trial — all in one day.
Twelve-year-old DJ and his family dog, Onyx, a Miniature Pinscher, rose to the occasion. After some training — including desensitization and counter-conditioning to the cameras and crew — Onyx proved to be a natural agility dog. Motivated by the cheers of the crowd, he ran the course with a tunnel, chute, jumps, tire, dog walk, and weave poles
When DJ’s dad joined in, the team fared especially well, and the experience became a fun and memorable example of what dogs and people can accomplish together.
Arthur
Ben & Jessie on Arthur, Season 18
WGBH / PBS Kids, filmed 2012, aired 2013
On April 20 and May 5, 2012, I coached twelve-year-old Ben Cohen of Brookline while working with his dog Jessie during filming for a segment of Arthur on WGBH-TV. The episode first aired in fall 2013 as part of the Season 18 opening episode.
The segment is educational and highlights child-and-dog safety, the benefits of training a dog, and positive reinforcement. It also briefly touches on some of the special considerations involved in helping rescue dogs settle into a new family and way of life.
Jessie joined the Cohen family as a puppy, while Lucky — the rescue dog referenced in the story — was already more than two years old when he was found on a highway in Florida and later welcomed into family life.
Radio
NightSide with Dan Rea
WBZ NewsRadio 1030, 2010
In 2010, I appeared three times as an in-studio guest on NightSide with Dan Rea on WBZ NewsRadio 1030, answering live listener questions about dog training and behavior.
These appearances gave callers an opportunity to raise real-life concerns about their dogs and receive practical, humane guidance live on the air.
Learn More
To learn more about my work, please visit the About page or explore services offered through The Cooperative Dog.
