Tara Gifford grew up riding and her love of horses helped to lead her into a career in animal behavior. After graduating from Ohio State University with a degree in Animal Science she worked at a vet clinic.

Tara began her zoo career in 1985 by joining the staff at The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. After 9 years of training marine mammals in Chicago, performing shows and mentoring new trainers she began applying the same proven training methods of positive reinforcement while working with other terrestrial exotics. She has successfully taught these powerful training principles to zookeepers, pet and horse owners.

Tara began her consulting career 20+ years ago and has enjoyed working with accredited facilities and wildlife centers on animal behavior programs and staff development. She has a degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University and took the first AZA course: Managing Animal Enrichment and Training Programs. Tara has completed course work at National K-9, Karen Pryor Academy's Puppy Start Right for Instructors and TAGteach Primary Level. She keeps up with the latest in training and enrichment methods by attending (and presenting at) conferences, workshops and course work with leading professionals such as Ken Ramirez, Dr. Susan Friedman, Dr. Robin Foster and Val Hare.

Tara is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed as of April 2019.