Hi, I’m the founder and sole operator of Social Sniffers, and dogs have been my world for as long as I can remember.

My journey started with Mindy, a loyal and loving dog I rescued as a child. She taught me patience, trust, and how to build a bond that lasts a lifetime. From there, my passion for animals only grew. I was always the one bringing home strays—cats, bunnies, birds, even an owl once. At 13, I stepped into a grooming shop during winter break and was offered a job. That experience helped shape the way I care for animals and sparked a path I would return to throughout my life.

Over the years, I’ve worked professionally in grooming, managed a pet hotel, bred Golden Retrievers responsibly, and spent countless hours learning from dogs of all breeds and personalities. I also worked in customer care at Veterinary Referral and Critical Care as well as Shady Grove Animal Clinic facilitating clients needs throughout their visit. That time deepened my compassion, strengthened my communication skills, and gave me even more insight into the human-animal bond.

One of the most meaningful parts of my journey was raising my first Golden Retriever puppy, Koby. He was my heart dog, and we shared an incredibly special bond. Koby was the grandson of a Golden named Judge—a dog I fell in love with while traveling to dog shows. He came from a long line of titled champions. With Koby, I earned the AKC Canine Good Citizen title, and our time together deepened my love for dog training, temperament, and structure.

I also earned the AKC STAR Puppy title with Prince, my Standard Poodle. I’ve completed countless puppy foundation and manners classes over the years and had the incredible experience of traveling with a professional handler, attending dog shows, and immersing myself in the world of structure, temperament, and breed standards.

While I love dogs of all ages, I’m especially passionate about puppies—and how their early experiences shape who they become. I have a degree in psychology, and I’ve always been fascinated by development, behavior, and the ways positive exposure can influence brain growth and confidence during critical periods. That curiosity and education have deeply influenced how I approach puppy enrichment today.

I am a Fear Free Certified Professional and CPR trained through the American Red Cross. I specialize in early puppy enrichment and socialization. I created Social Sniffers to support new puppy parents and give puppies the best possible start during their most sensitive developmental weeks. Through calm, guided outings and exposure, I contribute by helping young puppies grow into confident, well-adjusted companions.

Helping dogs feel safe, understood, and confident isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.

Kimberly Rubadeau FFCP

**If you have an older puppy or dog with troubling issues such as reactivity or aggression I am happy to refer you to a Fear Free Certified Behaviorist