After retiring from working nearly 30 years as a photojournalist, Dave found himself at a place in life where he could do something new. While recovering from a foot surgery, he discovered dog training and began working with his own dog as part of his therapy. He enjoyed the experience so much he began a partnership with another dog trainer to share the insights he gained with others. Dave has a passion for helping humans and their dogs have the best relationship possible and understanding things from a dog's perspective. He regularly teaches beginner and intermediate obedience, private classes, advanced classes, tricks classes, new puppy classes, and beginner agility in cooperation with Awesome Dog Academy in Tupelo, MS. Dave's own dogs have earned AKC titles Trick Dog Elite Performer, Therapy Dog Distinguished, and Canine Good Citizen Urban, as well as being registered Reading Education Assistance Dogs.

On a recent trip driving around Scotland, Dave made it part of the trip to find dogs every day believing dogs were the bridge to connect with their people. Encountering more than 20 dogs and their Scottish owners made the trip enriching.

Dave is also working on a book chronicling more than 400 therapy dog visits to schools, hospice, retirement homes, and a children's home.