FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
FIRST STEP: A 30 minute consultation. This consultation is free of charge and gives myself and the client the opportunity to ask questions and gather information regarding needs of the client and services I have to offer. This meeting will give a glimpse of what the situation is, a picture of how the client wants it to be, and an idea of a few paths I could show them to get them there. FIRST SESSION: 1 1/2 - 2 Hours I will observe the family's normal daily activities and interactions and witness the actions and behaviors of the dog. Once I have gathered enough information, together with the client we will decide on a training plan. Beyond this point, there is no set "process"... there can't be. Because I work with people and their pets... the "process" MUST be tailored to fit each client (human and pet) and their situation. Every training plan offers hands on sessions, resource material and homework designed to reinforce and put into practice what has been learned. Plans are always flexable. No one technique is going to work for every dog... but we can find the technique that works for your dog. Yes... you will have homework... and the success of your dog will rely heavily on that homework being completed! BUT... its ok... This homework is a fabulous opportunity for clients to learn ...in what areas they could use some help... questions they didn't realize they had... and best of all... it gives clients a great excuse to hang out with and get to know their dog!! EMBRACE THE HOMEWORK!
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
The best advice I could give anyone looking to hire a dog trainer is.... Trust your dog. Is your dog curious / interested in this new person? Does your dog approach this person? Sniff them? Does the dog allow the trainer to pet them? Will your dog, once relaxed, accept food treats from the trainer? Will the dog engage in play? How does your dog react when on leash with the trainer? Does the trainer allow time for the dog to come to them or do they force interaction? Does the trainer initially acknowledge / speak to the dog while maintaining distance and continuing with business rather than focusing on the dog? If your dog greets the trainer in an inappropriate manner, does the trainer give the dog affection or passively correct / redirect the behavior avoiding engaing the dog until the dog has calmed down? Bottom Line: If your dog seems fearful, anxious or uncharacteristically timid for an extended time, if they ignore or avoid the trainer when the trainer attempts to engage your dog... You should probably keep looking.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
What is your dog doing that you don't like? What do you want them to be doing instead? How important is it to you that the behavior changes? How long are you willing to work on training before you giving up? Will you make training a priority? Attend every seession? Complete ALL Homework (including reading)? Is everyone in the home committed to training? Will every family member provide clear, consistant expectations, rules and correction as presented in training? Can your dog depend on you to put forth the necessary efforts to help him/her be the Good Dog they are?