FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Absolutely! No one goes to Dog Trainer School and learns everything they need for the rest of their training life. I belong to several trainers associations, including the Pet Professionals Guild. I attend seminars and conferences (like the Association for Professional Dog Trainers conference www.apdt.com). In my "free time" I participate in trainers networks where we discuss methods, brainstorm cases and talk about new training products. Dog training is my obsession, and learning never ends.
- What types of customers have you worked with?
On-leash aggression is a very common problem in the city. This is when a dog barks and lunges at other dogs when out on walks. It's incredibly stressful every time you take your dog out. You wind up crossing the street to avoid dogs, and apologizing to other owners, who can be very rude. It often is caused by fear, not aggression, and there are several proven treatments.. I love working with desensitization and counter-conditioning and some BAT, and have great results. Separation disorders and various impulse control problems (barking, soiling, chewing) are very common in the city. We need to give our dogs physical and mental stimulation. If they're home alone there are many things that can be done to fulfill their needs. I adopted a Border Collie, a breed that's meant to be out herding sheep 8 hours a day (she was mislabeled at the shelter). As a result I've become an expert at fulfilling dogs needs, when you can't be with them 24 hours a day. I use interactive feeders, Kong stuffing recipes, treadmills and relaxation exercises. Everything you need to teach your dog to be content when you're not at home.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
A good way to hire a trainer is to watch them work. Feel free to contact me if you'd like to watch me training a dog. I may be able to let you audit a session with a dog who has a similar behavior problem to your own dog.