The Family Fido is a dedicated team committed to improving the lives of both dogs and their families in Rochester and the surrounding areas. Our passion for dogs has shaped our lives, and we love sharing our expertise to help families better understand their canine companions. Founded by a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, we specialize in guiding owners through their dog’s behavior, providing effective solutions to set them on the right path. We take pride in fostering lasting, positive relationships between dogs and their families through compassionate and knowledgeable coaching. Understanding the challenges that can come with some dogs, we approach each family with empathy and a commitment to creating a peaceful, enjoyable bond with their four-legged friend.
We Accommodate All Dogs
Some dogs need more space to run, while others prefer personal space and feel uncomfortable around unfamiliar dogs. We understand that every dog has unique needs, and group play isn’t the right fit for all. Whether your dog thrives in a social setting or requires one-on-one play, we believe in tailoring their experience to what makes them happiest and most comfortable.
 
What Sets Us Apart?
  • We provide two separate playgrounds for dog daycare where we place dogs in appropriate playgroups based on the dog’s size and play temperament.
  • The pet boarding costs are up-front. We have flat rate, all-inclusive pricing and no hidden charges.
  • Included with dog boarding comes free doggy day care, medication administration, doggy play time and dog interactions with our loving staff!
  • Dog safety is one of our top priorities!
  • We are one of the only facilities in the Rochester area that provides a nightly check on the dogs and an outdoor bathroom break at 10 PM.

Meet The Team!

Jessica Smidt CVT, KPA-CTP
Owner & Head Trainer

Jessica Smidt is a certified veterinary technician and professional dog trainer. She owns and operates The Family Fido, a training facility that offers fear-free training methods through classes, private lessons, and day training. With over 15 years of professional experience working with animals, Jessica has been a fear and force-free trainer for more than a decade. She graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy and has worked at the Mayo Clinic, where she trained and operated the Caring Canines therapy dog program.

In addition to her training services, Jessica co-founded Forever Fido Puppy Rescue, aiming to create a community that recognizes and prioritizes each dog's individual needs and well-being through all stages of their life.

When Jess isn’t at a private training consult or working in the facility, you can find her spending time with her family. Her family consists of her husband Matt, three kids, Wyatt, Quentin, and Kaitlyn, and 4 personal dogs!

Jessica's credentials include being a Certified Veterinary Technician, a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, and holding a Certificate of Completion in the Master Course on Aggression in Dogs.

Nicole Stundzia LFDM-S
​Trainer

Nicole is a Family Dog Mediator and is working toward her CPDT-KA certification to better support dog owners and adopters.

Nicole and her Poodle, Sophie, have earned AKC Scent Work Novice titles in Interior and Exterior elements and are one qualifying run away from completing their Novice Container and Buried element titles. This accomplishment highlights their impressive scent detection skills and dedication to the sport, which focuses on dogs identifying scents in various environments.
​
Nicole is also taking Dr. Robert Hewings' Scent Training for Every Dog course through the College of Scent Dogs. She truly enjoys scent training and looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm with other dog owners.

Additionally, Nicole has a deep soft spot for retired commercial breeder dogs and is passionate about helping owners understand their backgrounds and how to support them in becoming as successful as possible in their homes. She has personally fostered over 30 dogs and puppies from commercial breeder environments, helping them transition to loving homes.
​
Outside of training, Nicole co-founded Forever Fido Puppy Rescue with Jessica.