About P4L
Dedicated to Dog Training
At Play for Life, I'm passionate about helping dogs live happier, healthier lives through expert training, play-based methods, and behavior modification programs designed with your dog’s well-being in mind.
Based in Lafayette, Colorado, my training structure is built around a simple belief: dogs thrive through structured play, balanced approach, and a whole lot of love.
Your Dog’s Journey Starts Here
Whether you're navigating puppyhood, managing behavior issues, or simply want the best one-on-one enrichment for your dogs, Play for Life is here for you. Let’s find out what your dog needs to thrive.
Serving Lafayette, CO and Surrounding Communities
Conveniently located and proudly serving dog parents in Lafayette, Louisville, Erie, Boulder, Longmont, and beyond.
Looking for loving, expert dog training?
Let’s play, learn, and grow—together.
🐾 Why Choose Play for Life?
✅ Professional Dog Training – Positive, balanced training for puppies, adult dogs, and behavior challenges.
✅ Enrichment-Focused Structure – Safe and supervised care that encourages learning and energy release.
✅ Customized Behavior Programs – Tailored to your dog’s unique needs, personality, and goals.
✅ Passionate Dog Advocate – I treat your dog like family—because they are.
My Services
Discover Our Dog Services
Mission & Values
Committed to Dog Well-being
At Play for Life, my mission is to help dogs thrive through play-based training, personalized care, and enrichment-focused support. I believe that learning should be fun, engaging, and tailored to each dog’s unique needs and personality.
I believe every dog deserves a life full of joy, comfort, stimulation, and loving guidance—and I'm here to make that happen.
Play-Engagement Method
By blending purposeful play with expert guidance, I create positive experiences that support every dog’s emotional well-being, confidence, and behavioral success.
Professional Dog Care
Through compassionate care, medical expertise, and a commitment to high-quality, individualized programs, I empower dogs to live balanced, joyful lives—and build stronger bonds with the people who love them.
Community Engagement
At Play for Life, I believe that supporting dogs means supporting the people who love them. That’s why I am deeply involved in and supportive of the Boulder County community—hosting events, collaborating with local partners, and offering education and resources to dog parents. Through meaningful connections and shared experiences, I am building a community where dogs and their humans can learn, grow, and thrive together.
About Me
Meet Ana 🐾
Professional Dog Trainer | Behavior Specialist | Canine Advocate
Hi, I’m Ana, founder of Play for Life — where dog training is rooted in compassion, science, and real-life results.
I’ve spent the last several years diving deep into the dog world — from managing a behavior center, to leading at a veterinary hospital, to working hands-on as a professional handler for working dogs.
My goal is to support both dogs and their humans with clear, effective communication and a training process that builds confidence, trust, and lasting connection.
At Play for Life, I offer more than just obedience training. I help dogs thrive by focusing on their emotional well-being, understanding their unique needs, and using evidence-based methods that make learning enjoyable and sustainable.
Whether you're navigating puppyhood, tackling behavior concerns, or just want to strengthen your bond with your dog, I’m here to help guide the way.
Because training should be more than just obedience — it should be about connection, confidence, and a joyful life together.
Ana
Owner & Head Trainer
Ares
Senior Demo Dog and Emotional Support Liaison
Coya
Demo Dog; Future Sport Competitor
Lulu
Senior Coach - Tough Love Mentor
A Bit More About Me 🐾
Because I practice what I teach! Here’s a little peek behind the scenes:
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🐶 I share my life with two rescue dogs: Ares, a sensitive shepherd mix who’s the king of frisbee, and Lulu, a goofy senior with the best puppy eyes.
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🐾 I’m passionate about rescue and rehabilitation, and I’ve fostered and adopted many different animals.
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🌲 You’ll often find me on local hiking trails — my happy place is anywhere outdoors with a dog at my side.
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🎓 I’m committed to continued education in canine behavior, staying current on the latest training science and techniques.
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☕ When I’m not training, you’ll likely find me exploring open space, attending seminars, or enjoying quiet moments with my pets and a cup of tea.
Stories of Happy Dogs
Real Stories, Real Impact
"Taking our dog to Ana was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made! She was incredibly supportive, patient, and always available to answer our questions. Our pup is a more confident member of our family. Couldn’t be more grateful!"
Sophie
"Our rescue was unsure around new people and places, so finding the right trainer was huge for us. Ana totally gets it and she genuinely cares. Luna has come out of her shell so much since starting training classes."
Annonymous
"I joke that my dog has "selective hearing" especially on the trail. But after working with Ana, I’ve seen such a difference. Baxter's recall is reliable now, even with distractions! Ana gave me the tools needed to trust my dog off-leash in Boulder. Total game-changer!"
Chris M.