FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The new client will fill out an intake form which will give me the base information needed to start assessing the dog. Then, during the first few minutes of our session, I will ask follow-up and clarifying questions to ensure I fully understand the problem. After that, the owners and I will set up a training plan based on the problems at hand. I will start working with the dogs to improve their behavior during the first session. Depending on the problem, follow-up lessons may be necessary.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer which means I have sat for and passed an extensive certification exam. In order to sit for the exam, I had to have over 300 hours of teaching under my belt and three different written references - one from a vet, one from a clients, and one from a colleague. I am also a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers which is an educational association that keeps me up-to-date on the newest science and studies pertaining to dog behavior, trainer, and ethics.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
We first adopted a puppy and everything was easy and fun. When he was about 9 months old, we decided he needed a friend. We found a two year old malamute at the Humane Society. She had been tied up in her owner's back yard for the entire two years. She was extremely shy and fearful of everything under the sun. (It's amazing what a lack of socialization will do to a dog!) In order to help her, I began reading up on helping shy dogs and I just couldn't get enough. The training bug had bitten me! I knew that I wanted to help others with their dogs so I did an apprenticeship at a local, renowned dog training company. I worked there for over 6 years after my apprenticeship. I recently decided that I wanted to set my own schedule and have more direct contact with my clients so I opened my own training business.