The Coventry School for Dogs & Their People was founded in the early 1990s by Ruth Chase, a highly respected dog trainer and early advocate for positive reinforcement training. Ruth believed that the strongest relationships between dogs and their people are built through education, trust, and compassionate communication, not fear or force.

 

At a time when humane, science-based training was still gaining traction, Ruth helped pave the way. She created Coventry as a place where dogs could learn safely and where people could gain a deeper understanding of animal behavior, responsible ownership, and how to truly bond with their dogs. Beyond training, Ruth was deeply involved in promoting dog safety and well-being within the community, including initiatives such as microchipping and advocacy for the ethical treatment of animals.

 

Before her passing in 2012, Ruth entrusted Coventry to Liz and Vinny Catalano, both established and widely respected dog trainers who shared her philosophy and values. Under their leadership, Coventry has continued to grow while staying true to the foundation Ruth built. Liz, Vinny, and the entire Coventry staff remain committed to positive reinforcement training and to educating people on how to better understand, support, and advocate for their dogs.

 

Today, Coventry continues to offer group classes, private lessons, and day camp programs rooted in thoughtful training, behavioral insight, and individualized care. More than 30 years later, Ruth’s vision lives on through a team dedicated to educating people, advocating for dogs, and strengthening the human–dog bond, one relationship at a time.