FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I like to keep my prices reasonable, I have seen so many people that need training but struggle to afford it. I am willing to do payment plans for those that need it. Payment is per session by either cash or check, I feel that this helps break down cost and makes training less stressful than charging a sum up front. I prefer to do 8 week sessions with the family, if the dog learns exceptionally fast I am always happy to hold spots for future sessions for refreshers or any new behaviors that pop up. Board and Trains are offered on a very limited basis and are usually reserved for housebreaking puppies or for resource guarding. Payment for B&T is a deposit at the beginning with the rest due after training is completed. The cost includes follow up sessions after the dog goes home.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I prefer to do a consultation on the phone before the first meeting so that I can brainstorm some possibilities for behaviors first. During the first meeting we discuss training goals, time frames, tools, and history. I am available for texts or emails at all times for quick troubleshooting or reminders of how to deal with a behavior. This service is available for the lifetime of the dog.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have taught public group classes for a dog club and also at a big box store. I have met and worked with Jane Killion, Patricia McConnell, and Linda Koutsky in various forums over the years. I also worked privately for someone that I trained and showed their dogs while they worked and traveled. The dogs were taught basic house manners as well as competition obedience and agility. During that time I was also hired to train people's dogs for sports and started doing consultations for reactive dogs. I can also teach and test for the AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), all of the dogs I've trained and shown have passed and I am very confident that I can train any dog to pass. I use clicker training to teach new behaviors. I also use treats, praise and toys as rewards. I lean heavily towards the positive end of the spectrum but I do have experience using e-collars and other tools. As stated above I have worked with Jane Killion and I will always recommend her book "When Pigs Fly" because it is such a valuable resource! I have books to lend and recommend for those that are interested in learning about how to better communicate with their dogs.