The Journey to Mason's Way

Hi, I’m Gary—founder of Mason’s Way.

If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re looking for more than a quick fix. You’re probably feeling frustrated, confused, maybe even defeated—because despite your best efforts, your dog is still struggling. Whether it’s reactivity, anxiety, aggression, disobedience, or just chaos at home, I want you to know this: you haven’t failed. You just haven’t had the right help...until now.

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My journey into dog behaviour began long before I offered professional services. I’ve been fascinated by canine psychology since childhood, and my formal studies in Behavioural Psychology at McMaster University only deepened that passion. What began as curiosity turned into a lifelong mission—to understand, guide, and advocate for dogs that others had given up on. For over 15 years, I owned and operated a dog rescue, rehabilitation centre, and sanctuary in the Kawartha Lakes region. During those years, I lived alongside packs of up to 40 dogs—many labelled aggressive, broken, dangerous, or “unadoptable.” It was there, day in and day out, that I learned what no course or certificate could ever teach: every dog can be helped, and every behaviour has a root cause.

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Those years became the foundation of my methods. I wasn’t interested in complicated theory, rigid protocols, or quick-fix obedience. I spent countless hours amongst pack of dogs observing, learning, and searching for real results. So I began developing my own framework—one that focused not just on the dog, but on the entire relationship between dog and human. Over time, that system evolved into something powerful, clear, and universally applicable. Today, it forms the basis of everything I teach. It’s a structured, results-based model built on years of rehabilitation experience, grounded psychology, and the timeless wisdom of the dogs themselves. This framework is now simply known as "A PET, RESTED" —and while I won’t reveal what it stands for here, know that it’s at the heart of every transformation I guide.

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In 2020, I made the decision to close the sanctuary during COVID and relocate to The Blue Mountains, a region I grew to love while collaborating with the Georgian Triangle Humane Society. Inspired by the community, the trails, and the nature that surrounds us, I launched Mason’s Way—named after the incredible Border Collie who’s been by my side since 2011. Mason isn’t just a companion—he’s a teacher. Alongside a core group of other Founding Pack Members, many dogs have become an integral part of my trusted training team. Their calm, grounded energy has helped teach me, and rehabilitate hundreds of dogs. They know exactly when to lead, when to guide, and when to step in—and their influence on my clients’ dogs is something no amount of human training can replicate.

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What sets me apart isn’t just experience—it’s the results I deliver when others couldn’t. Many of my clients come to me after trying multiple trainers, obedience programs, and even behaviourists—still stuck, still frustrated. And yet, session after session, my clients begin to experience change. Not just in their dog’s behaviour, but in their own confidence, clarity, and connection. This isn’t about dominance or obedience—it’s about building a relationship based on respect, trust, communication, and calm leadership.

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Whether you’re dealing with reactivity, aggression, fear, over-excitement, or just general lack of control—I’m here to help you understand your dog on a deeper level, and finally provide you with the knowledge, support, and tools you need to change your life together. From immersive training packages and private rehabilitation, to energy-releasing trail runs and structured pack hikes, every service I offer is grounded in purpose and tailored specifically for you and your dog.

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This isn’t a job to me. It’s personal. It’s a lifetime of lessons from dogs that changed my life. And now, I’m here to help change yours.

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Let’s talk. Book your FREE Q&A or give me a call, and let’s start building the relationship you and your dog both deserve.