Family Paws

  • Cary, NC 27511 (map)
  • (919) 961-1608

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News feed

  • Dog and baby expert site! http://www.familypaws.com The one stop for all things dog and baby! Webinar, phone consults, over 80 qualified presenters. – Jan 02, 2012 at 9:52 am

  • Dogs & Storks class in Raleigh at Smart Momma!
    http://smartmomma.com/Dogs-Storks-Preparing-Families-with-Dogs-for-Life-with-Baby-p-21137.html – Jun 10, 2011 at 7:38 am

Dog Behavior Consulting Services

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Family PawsCary, NC$60-80 per hour

  1. You'll be asked a few quick questions that will help describe your needs.
  2. You'll be asked to provide your contact information so that Jennifer Shryock will be able to get in touch with you.
  3. You'll have the option to get competing quotes from other qualified service professionals, saving you time and money.
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Family Paws is a certified dog behavior consultant specializing in dog and child interaction, safety and fun!

National expert and creator of two National programs, Dogs & Storks and The Dog and Baby Connection, Jennifer Shryock understands firsthand what life with kids and dogs under one roof is like. Jennifer is mother of four kids and 3 canine companions. The Shryock family has fostered over 70 dogs over the years for ample hands on learning opportunities.

Jennifer is dedicated to positive, practical and affordable solutions for busy families. She combines her knowledge of child behavior (degree in special education) with her experience in dog behavior and interaction. She is a certified and founding member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.

Reviews

  • May 4, 2011

    Jennifer of Family Paws has been amazing! We consulted with her prior to the birth of our first child and learned so much in just one visit. Since then, she has helped us via multiple email exchanges not only with our dog training needs, but also just by being so supportive of our birth plans and following up to see how we've been doing. So much more than we ever expected!

    I have recommended her and her services to many others and highly encourage any one with changing family structures to book her services right away. Worth every penny, and then some!

    Tracy

  • April 28, 2011

    I cannot recommend Jen enough. She came to our rescue when we found our 3rd (!!) dog - a stray pitbull who was a complete loose cannon. Jen helped us be able to keep her - when I thought she would be a dog that would not be adoptable. My favorite thing that Jen said when she came to our house and saw 3 rather large dogs, knowing that my husband I both work full time was "for you it is going to be more about management...3 dogs is what puts you over the edge".. She is so honest and talented and has a great sense of humor, which you must have with 3 dogs! She taught me how to be smart when it came to my dogs, use common sense and use simple and effective methods. She taught me how to really look at my dogs behaviours and understand what they mean. Jen understands what it is to be a working family with multiple pets, kids, sports, company, vacations, etc. and how to incorporate all of that into a realistic lifestyle - that is manageable. This pitbull, whom I stated "must get out of our house now"...is now the darling of the family.....thanks to Jen.

    Anne

  • April 18, 2011

    Jen is the best when it comes to dogs and kids. With her experience and knowledge, she has helped many families and their pets live in harmony. She has a great sense of humor, too! I highly recommend Jen for any behavioral issues and breed-specific "opportunities" not just dogs and children.

    Kathryn

  • April 12, 2011

    I recently tried to adopt a young female dog from a rescue. Soon after the dog arrived difficulties between her and my 14 year old female began to manifest. I phoned Jennifer for consultation and help with the situation. Jennifer immediately understood the behavior both dogs were exhibiting and clearly explained to me what was going on. Through our conversation, I realized these two females were not a good match. This adoption did not work out for me however, I will try to adopt again. When that time comes, I will speak to Jennifer first and discuss the available dogs. With her help, I can make a more suitable selection and avoid another disappointing experience. I value and trust Jennifer's knowledge and experience in dog behavior. I have every intention on having Jennifer as my trainer when I get a new adoption.

    Vivian

  • April 12, 2011

    I've known Jen for 13 years. Her extensive knowledge of baby, child and dog behavior, as well as her expertise and dedication is an invaluable resource. It has been an inspiration seeing the countless families that are able to have a harmonious home and not have to give up their beloved dog/s. It is my great honor to work with her and call her friend.

    I highly recommend her programs for any expectant family with dogs, including families that may already have children.

    Jen is, literally, a life saver!

    Colleen

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Question and answer

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. Interview each person and ask many questions! Find out their experience with the challenges and type of service you are looking for. Don't be afraid to ask questions about what qualifies them to support you and your family. Remember a dog trainer and behavior consultant is coming into your home....be careful and inquire about that person.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. Trust your gut and if something does not feel comfortable...ask questions and get a second opinion. Trust your gut about techniques and if something feels wrong then look for another trainer or behavior consultant to support your family.
There are many ways to accomplish the same goal.... there is no reason to stick with a method that makes you uncomfortable. Shop around!

Q. Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?

A. I am a certified dog behavior consultant, Mother of four who also has a degree in special education. My passion has always been kids and dogs. Many dog behavior consultants and trainers offer great solutions but not always ones that can be successfully achieved with young children in the home. My focus is to offer safe and fun dog and baby friendly techniques that will be practical in your home. The combination of my background in Special education and dog behavior along with living with kids and dogs every day allows me to support families in a unique way.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. I love helping dogs and kids live harmoniously under one roof. Often dogs are surrendered to shelters when families are expecting a baby. I love when we can give suggestions and advice that helps them take it one step at a time towards success!

Q. What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A. How old does our child need to be before they can be unsupervised with our dog?

My answer to this is ....that depends on the individual child and dog. There is no magic age but rather it all depends on behavior of both living beings. As living breathing beings dogs and kids react and behave differently in different circumstances. Predictability and the ability to anticipate an outcome are important for both.
Toddlers never should be left unattended with dogs...no matter the size or breed.
This case by case for kids over 5 and the bottom line is ....when you are not there...you are not aware. So, play it safe!

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