FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
A private 1:1 in home session is approxmiately 2 hours. In this session, we will talk while I observe and assess your relationship with your dog(s). We will come up with an action plan and then we will get to work with training. Follow-up sessions are on an as needed basis, typically bi-weekly for a month or so. Behavior modification can be done in an in-home session or in a Board and Train session, depending on the degree of the dogs behavior and how long the dog has been rehearsing the behavior. Board & Train programs are minimum of 3 weeks. B&T programs are designed to the specific needs of the dog and family. In general, your dog will gain basic obedience and basic foundation training in a board and train. Remote collar training can be incorporated into the program. There is a take home session and 2 follow-up sessions to be used as the family needs within 2 months of the dog leaving a B&T program.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
My path to becoming a professional dog trainer began as we were looking to rescue a dog to add to our family. We became fosters for a local rescue. The first 10 dogs we fostered were great, easy going dogs. Number 11 was a fairly aggressive dog. Within 4 days, I wasn't sure she could stay in our home as a foster. I met with a trainer and learned that with clear and consistent communication, we can change the way a dog thinks about and handles issues. I was amazed that we were able to save this dog from potentially being euthanized. We fostered many more dogs. I started helping my family and my neighbors dogs, to get my hands on as many dogs as I could. I have shadowed several local trainers and traveled to other parts of the US to learn from, and work with some world renowned trainers that specialize in obedience, anxiety and aggression.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Any trainer you are interested in hiring should have social media channels for you to follow their work. Such as...Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. They should be open and transparent about their philosophy/methodology of training.