Deborah received her B.S. in Biology from Saint Mary’s College of California, a M.A. in Integrative Biology from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Ph.D. in Wildlife Science from the University of Washington, Seattle. Her dissertation research focused on kit foxes and the integration of detection dogs and the genetic analysis of scat as a way to enhance information on endangered populations.

Deborah's commitment to conservation dogs began in 1999; she also has 30+ years of experience in field and laboratory research of wild canid species and a life-long dedication as a professional dog trainer. Most recently Deborah has found herself passionately vested in understanding care of retired working dogs and ensuring their well-being in senior years.