Hi, I’m Petra

 

I am the founder and coach/therapist of Core Fit Canine, LLC. I am here to help your dog stay fit, happy and healthy with enriching, positive and fun fitness programs as well as canine massage — all tailored to the individual dog's needs and abilities.

 

I also specialize in truffle hunting and truffle dog training — one of the most fascinating canine activities I have been involved with. My approach combines science-based knowledge, real-world experience, and positive training methods — always with the goal of filling dogs' lives with joy and strengthening the partnership between them and their owners. 

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​My Journey

 

For more than 36 years, I have dedicated my life to caring for animals in need — an experience I have treasured every step of the way. Growing up in Germany, my love for animals and nature shaped my future path. After moving to the US in 1989, I began volunteering at an animal shelter, and soon became a veterinary assistant, which guided me to become a Registered Veterinary Technician and a fulfilling 28-year career as Veterinary Technician Specialist with the North Carolina State University's Cardiology Service, where I cared for dogs and cats with heart disease while also teaching fourth-year veterinary students. I retired in 2025 to dedicate myself fully to helping dogs thrive through canine conditioning, massage therapy, and the incredibly strong owner-dog connection that evolves through truffle dog training/hunting.  

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My passion for canine behavior, strengthening the human-canine bond, and promoting lifelong health and fitness in dogs led me to pursue further certifications. I became a Certified Canine Massage Therapist through Equissage® in 2021 and a Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach® under instructor Bobbie Lyons in 2023. I am trained in canine and feline CPR. 

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I am also a professional truffle hunter. Since 2019, I have focused extensively on truffle dog training — developing reliable truffle hunting skills, problem-solving ability, and true teamwork between dog and handler. I trained my own dogs and guide other teams to success through clear, structured, positive and practical methods (see Truffle Dog Training page and my Truffle Dog Training Guide "The Art of Truffle Hunting" for details).

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Beyond working with dogs, I enjoy a range of creative and outdoor pursuits, including mushroom foraging, pottery, fused glass, gardening, cooking, swimming, hiking, and traveling.   

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​About My Dogs 

 

Shortly after moving to the US, I adopted my first dog, a golden retriever mix. I became interested in dog sports — especially agility, which quickly became a passion. My second dog, Forrest, a collie mix, took me to my first agility Nationals, and we earned four Champion titles together (NADAC, CPE, USDAA, UKI). 

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Later, a spirited and exceptionally intelligent Jack Russell Terrier named Stewie joined our family. He excelled in a wide variety of activities, including agility, earth dog sports, lure coursing, tricks, Rally Obedience, Frisbee, and dock diving. In his senior years, I continue to keep him active and mobile through hiking, swimming, structured fitness work, and truffle hunting. Check out his tricks!

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Rosi, an Old Time Scotch collie, became part of our family in 2019. She is a certified therapy dog, enjoys herding livestock and is crazy about our fitness sessions together. She lights up anytime we go for a truffle hunt. 

 

I look forward to helping you build a special relationship with your dog while keeping them active and healthy through canine conditioning, massage therapy, and the exciting activity of truffle hunting.

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