The Cooperative Dog

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Introduction: I have multiple professional certifications and more than a decade and a half experience working full-time with people and a wide variety of dogs. I have handled several thousand dogs and, in doing so, have dealt with numerous and severe behavioral problems. I also have classes, workshops and seminars to help my clients work through behavior problems. Aspiring dog trainers regularly inquire about apprenticing with me. Other dog related businesses regularly seek my advice in helping them to meet the needs of their clients. Regarding my personal dog(s)-- I could easily have competed in obedience, agility, tracking and sheep herding with my beloved Szap in his prime in the 1990s, however, because he was not a purebred dog, he was not allowed. I currently have Hawk, a deaf border collie x akita rescue dog from Georgia. I had planned on competing in agility with her at some time in the future but now doubt that I will. I'm not interested in acquiring trophies for me as that process usually translates to more stress on the dog. I think dogs have enough to deal with an worry about in living with people in very hectic, fast paced time. I love teaching people how to train dogs. I get tremendous satisfaction from seeing people connect with their dogs on a deeper level, one that is only possible when we consider life from a dog's point of view. To do so is to let go of pop culture's views on dogs -- 'alpha this & dominant that' -- and to get on with teaching dogs how to live with people with kindness and respect.

Overview

1 employee

28 years in business

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Featured Projects

11 photos

Reviews

5.0

2 reviews

100%

Heather B.

Nov 9, 2013

Vera has been incredibly helpful for my dog, Nala, and me. She tailors her sessions to the people and dogs in her class, so everyone is getting their issues and needs met. She's big on 'meeting you where you are at" and helping you understand your dog so you are able to meet them where they are at. When she gives you feedback and suggestions, she is sensitive in her approach and you end up feeling more confident in your ability to train and interact with your dog, rather than feeling like you're a complete failure. You definitely have to put in your fair share of work outside of classes, and she checks in with you to see how you're progressing, which helps hold you accountable. Since beginning our work with Vera, I have noticed that Nala is calmer and looks to me more often for guidance. She responds more quickly when I correct her as well. Nala and I have more work to do but Vera has helped us get the ball rolling in the right direction. I highly recommend Vera for dog owners who want to have a more cooperative dog!

Nate M.

Oct 22, 2013

I brought my 6 mo pit mix to Vera's class and for 6 weeks receiving training tips to use in everyday life. Vera helped me solve my individual issues I had with MOCHA as well as give me pointers on dealing with any issues that would arise in the future. I saw MOCHA listen very much to Vera throughout the classes and it was evident she had the dogs attention.

FAQs

What types of customers have you worked with?
Far more people seek my help to resolve dog reactivity and dog-dog aggression issues than any other behavior problem. Attendance at my reactive dog seminar in Brookline or having an in-home behavior consultation is required before joining my outdoor rowdy rovers classes. These real world classes provide people with a safe environment to improve their handling skills while also working on their dog's leash reactivity that is generally the result of insufficient socialization; negative experiences with other dogs while on or off leash and frustration that is often the result of life at the end of a leash.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
You will likely have a long term relationship with this person so please take the time to speak with several dog trainers before making a decision. Regardless of whether your dog is a puppy or adult dog in need of basic training or a dog with a long standing behavior problem or two, ask for references from current and past clients as well as veterinarians.