Cosa fare » Marianna Romano Dog Trainer

Marianna Romano Dog Trainer

Sports Activities with Dogs

Educational walks/hikes
Playful workshops at the beach and in the field
Dog sitting
Mobility
Behavioural rehabilitation
Scent activities in mantrailing and detection games
Basic and advanced training
Basic obedience and tricks

Meet Marianna

Hello, Marianna, could you tell us a bit about yourself?

“Hello Patrizia and Gianni! I’m Marianna Romano, born in Naples in 1985. I moved to Rome in 2008, then to Piombino in 2017 when I got married. I come from a big family with five siblings and a dog, not to mention the other dogs that passed through our home. My mum has always been passionate about dogs, so we’ve always had one around!”

How did you decide to become a dog trainer? What’s your journey been like?

““I relocated to Rome for my job, where I worked as an IT consultant. I left my family and loved ones to chase a career, and I succeeded. I spent those years working, hanging out with friends, pursuing hobbies, and enjoying nature, particularly on weekends when I could escape to the mountains and go climbing.
When the opportunity to have a dog came along, Nana arrived, a mix-breed hunting dog and a stray. I saw her adoption post on Facebook and fell in love. After a day of work and days of pondering whether to adopt her or not – such a tough decision! – I rushed to pick her up. When I saw her, it was love at first sight. My life with her has been truly
wonderful; we began sharing our time immediately and had many beautiful experiences.
I moved to Piombino and found work in IT, but my outlook changed: I entered a very different world that didn’t align with my natural inclination for improvement and growth.
In the meantime, Vesuvia, a long-haired German Shepherd, entered my life and immediately made herself known as a complex dog.“

I turned to Federico Libri, now a collaborator of mine, who suggested I take a course to become a dog educator.
And here I am, full of enthusiasm! During my year of study, I specialized by doing many internships, attending parallel courses, and reading dog training books.
I quickly got involved by attending seminars across Italy, and I later specialized with a Master’s in behavioural rehabilitation.”

Activities and Services for Dogs on Holiday

What are the best activities for dogs on holiday? How important are activity and movement for our furry friends?

“Holidays are vital for everyone, including our dogs who also feel the stress of daily life.So during the holidays, we can finally enjoy quality time with our four-legged friends, provided we respect their needs and preferences.

Thanks to my association ‘ASD Code nel Vento‘, we offer a variety of outdoor activities for dogs on holiday, including:
‘Code a Spasso’ – monthly educational walks in the Piombino area and nearby.
Playful workshops at the beach, where dogs can get used to the water.
Field workshops that dedicate a couple of hours in a holiday week to teaching specific exercises to your dog.”

Can you explain Mantrailing and Detection Games, and the benefits they offer?

“Mantrailing is a technique used to find missing people through scent.
Detection Games is a sport where the goal is to identify specific substances through the dog’s sense of smell.

Dogs have an amazing sense of smell that’s underutilized in modern times, so through these activities, the dog can engage in one of its most ancestral behaviours, naturally achieving goals. They can also feel like they have a trusted friend who understands their needs.“

What is the “Code a Spasso” project? What should never be missing during a walk/hike?

“‘Code a Spasso’ was created to immerse dogs in natural contexts, where they can enjoy the scents and the joy of sticks to chew. Our educational walks aim to share experiences from the beautiful landscapes to coffee together. During a walk, you should never be without a harness,

trekking shoes, water for yourself and your dog, and a leash.
Every dog is respected in its space, ensuring a unique and enjoyable experience for all.”

What do you think you can convey, and what do you take away from each experience?

“Every ‘Code a Spasso’ is pure magic. Dogs may have issues with other dogs or people, but amid conversations and laughter, they find their balance. It’s a moment of affection for both dogs and people, where everyone enjoys the present moment. And every time, I go home with a heart full of beautiful emotions.“

How to Participate in Activities on Holiday with Your Dog

What information do you think is useful for those who want to participate in the walks?

“These walks are open to dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages, but it’s important to note any issues with other dogs, people, or environments. Before registration, there will be a get-to-know-you meeting to discuss and plan the activities.

I hope my experiences can serve as an example for dog enthusiasts, encouraging them to spend quality time with their four-legged friends. So, if you’re planning sports holidays in Tuscany, don’t hesitate to include your faithful companion in your adventures and explore the opportunities offered by this wonderful area and my activities.
Happy holidays to you and your furry friends!“