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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I have been a professional trainer for over 30 years; having successfully trained thousands of dogs and their humans. I use only positive reinforcement methods; never any aversive tools such as choke chains, prongs or e-collars. I am also an award winning author of 46 pet books, several of which are best sellers. I have created my own line of humane dog training tools sold worldwide. I can read a dog like people read a book, and instantly understand the training approach. (Keep in mind that if someone claims to be a "balanced" trainer it means they often use aversive training methods if they deem necessary. I NEVER find it necessary as I know how to train.)
Shady Mountain Pet Retreat is an exclusive, luxury boarding and training facility located in the mountains of Western/Central Virginia. Pets come here to get away from it all and to learn, too. Each pet has a private indoor and outdoor temperature controlled suite with windows, raised beds, raised feeders and doggy door access to private yards. SMPR features large community play yards with climbing equipment, wading pools, pit-ball game, a three-story fort, adventure cave, hiking trails, agility training yard and a K9 therapy and conditioning pool. We offer basic on and off lead obedience, behavior modification, therapy dog training, Canine Good Citizenship training, Obedience show preparation, trained animals for media productions (movies/TV) and create great hiking companions.
SMPR is owned and operated by a professional animal trainer and behaviorist who has authored 46 pet books, several of which are best sellers.
Your pet will go home healthy, happy and tired.
We also offer private lessons at our facility. Please call to arrange.
Overview
Hired 13 times
Serves Amherst, VA
Background checked
4 employees
43 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, and Square cash app.
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, responsiveness, and work quality.
Very good 4.5
8 reviews
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13%
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Read reviews that mention:
Margo s.
Oct 10, 2020
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Hired on Thumbtack
We brought in a wild but sweet 15 month old pup, and they have managed to tame her and make her listen, gently and without breaking her spirit. I love the set up and methods they use. And what a great place for a dog! Adventure land, mountain hikes, careful selection of playmates- too bad they don't take people. I'd stay there.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Board and train at a facility • General obedience training • Leash pulling • At the pro’s location
Shady Mountain Pet Retreat's reply
Thank you for allowing me to work with Ms. Bailey. She is a great dog with tons of potential.
Dog Training
Brock T.
Feb 20, 2020
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Hired on Thumbtack
Miriam is the perfect trainer. Her facility is top notch and she clearly knows what she is talking about. Brought in a 10 week old puppy and we started seeing results with in the first week of training with Miriam. Every question we had, she had an answer for and they actually worked! Would recommend 10/10.
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • Biting • Destructive behavior • Crate training • At the pro’s location
Shady Mountain Pet Retreat's reply
Thanks for the great comments, Brock. Stella is a real joy to work with. I feel blessed.
Dog Training
Elaine S.
Feb 1, 2015
I took my Standard Poodle to SMPR for Miriam to work with her on basic training & some behavior issues. With in three months I could see a huge differences not only in her behavior she had learned some basic skills. My poodle was a big challenge because of her inattentive behavior, very timid around strangers & very scared of loud noises. Miriam, took on this very difficult challenge and worked with my dog not only @ SMPR also in the obedience ring. My dog earned five titles.I am totally satisfied I have a great companion dog that I am pleased to take anywhere I go. The quality of work was extraordinary!!
Kristy M.
Jul 22, 2017
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Hired on Thumbtack
Just getting started but we were pleased with our first session!
Shady Mountain Pet Retreat's reply
I enjoyed meeting your family.
Dog Training
Christopher W.
Apr 4, 2018
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Hired on Thumbtack
Answered all my questions and very interested in knowing what I want to do with my pet. We have enjoyed our one on one time with the trainer. Mason seems to be learning rather quickly. I can not say the same for his owners. Nice place, good training area.
Details: 1 dog • 0 - 6 months old • Extra large (70+ lbs) • Board and train programs at a facility • General obedience training • Leash pulling • Barking • Biting • I travel to the dog trainer
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Miriam Fields
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
For private lessons:
$50/session at my facility. $50/hr if doing lesson at owner's home, or meeting at another location.
For board and train:
2 week program - $1100. Includes training, treats, 2 lessons with pet parents, boarding. Lots of social time with other dogs. Covers heel, loose leash walking, sit/stay, down/stay, come and finish
4 week program - $2400. Includes training, treats 4 lessons with pet parents, boarding. Lots of social time with other dogs. 2 field trips to area pet shops for distraction proofing. Covers on and off lead heel, loose leash walking, sit/stay and down/stay with upwards of 20' of distance, distraction proofing, behavior in public, mountain hikes.
We will custom design your dog's experience depending on your overall goals and his abilities.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I'd prefer to speak either in person or on the phone to discuss your needs and goals. This will help me tailor a training program to achieve your goals.
When you decide which program you'd prefer, we arrange an appointment where we can meet each other and you can tour our facility. We deem it best for you to feel comfortable with us and our way of caring for your beloved fur kid, prior to committing to our program.
We offer the best care and training for dogs, cats, birds and other animals in the state. Let us prove that to you!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have degrees in Psychology and Zoology.
I have worked with exotic animals at National Zoo, Boston Zoo, and Dolphin Research Center.
I began my business in 1983, teaching pet owners how to work with and communicate with their pets. During my tenure as a professional trainer, I have worked with thousands of dogs, cats, horses and other animals. I am the only trainer in the state who has credentials working with such a wide array of species, professionally.
The key is simple: I use positive reinforcement. This motivates animals to learn.
I published my first book, Dog Training Basics, in 1995. By 2014, I had 44 published books. I have also provided web content, news articles, magazine articles and more during this time. Harvard, UC Davis, UC Colorado and other Universities use my books for their veterinary and animal behavior programs. Dog training schools also use my books to teach students how to understand and train dogs.
