Q: Do you teach classes at a facility, in my home, or do I come to you?
A: All of my services are conducted in the convenience of your home, where your dog will be less distracted and more comfortable and focused. Every dog learns at their own pace and is motivated by different things, and every client has specific goals when it comes to training. Each training session is specifically designed with you and the needs of your pet in mind. I also can often better observe behavior issues that are occurring at home, whereas in an unfamiliar setting, the pet may be less inclined to exhibit them. Q: What training method(s) do you use? A: I am a positive reinforcement trainer, which means I don't use any corrections-based methods such as leash pop corrections, e-collars, choke or pinch collars, or any other punishments. I want your dog to work for you because they find training fun and rewarding, not because they fear you or a consequence. If you currently use any of these methods, you will not feel judged, but I would love the opportunity to show you a different, effective way to train that is more gentle. I use clicker training in conjunction with the "Nothing in Life is Free" program. Q: Do you only use treats as rewards? A: I use whatever is MOST rewarding for your dog. For some, that means treats. For others, it might be play time or affection. Q: How much do you charge for training? A: Please contact me for details as there is no "one size fits all" price. I do try to keep my prices competitive, as I recognize the importance of training and want it to be affordable for anyone who needs it. Q: How much experience do you have? Do you work with only certain breeds? A: I gained valuable experience while working in an animal shelter for several years with all different types of rescued pets. I assisted with canine temperament testing for adoption readiness, and this is where I discovered I loved training and absorbed all I could about feline and canine behavior. That path started 14 years ago. Within that time, I adopted a dog of my own that needed extensive training, (he went on to become a Canine Good Citizen and therapy dog) and this increased my desire to become a trainer. In 2012, I completed my studies, did several training internships with experienced and talented mentors, became certified, and started my own business. Since then, I have been fortunate to have worked with countless puppies and dogs - big and small, aggressive and non-aggressive, shy and social. I've worked with teeny tiny Yorkshire Terriers to giant Great Danes, and everything in between. Q: What do I need to provide for training? A: Small, soft training treats, or other reward (Frisbee, toy, peanut butter, etc.) a willingness to learn and have fun, and a commitment to your pet's success. Occasionally, depending on what we are working on, I may recommend the purchase a specific harness, toy, crate, or other training tools. Q: What types of things will my dog learn? A: Puppies will learn the basics - focusing, self-control, sit, stay, name recognition, intro to recall, manners, etc, and I also provide you with ideas on how to address house-training, crate training, puppy mouthing, socializing, and more. I also address specific behavior issues such as barking, jumping, dog to dog aggression, boundary training, possession, and more. The rest depends on your goals. Q: I have children in my family. Can they participate in training? A: I encourage as many family members as possible to be involved in training, as consistency is the key to success. This may take a little extra patience and extra attention, and that's okay! Q: What if I get through the basics and want to do more training with you? Is that possible? What about classes? A: Families often will do additional training with me beyond the basics, working on more advanced skills. While I don't teach classes, I am a big fan of them for socialization purposes, both with other dogs and new people. They also help fine-tune skills we learned together and really reinforce them. I have facilities and trainers that I can recommend to those interested. Q: I have a crazy schedule. What are your hours? A: I understand, I have a crazy schedule sometimes, too! I try to accommodate as best as I can, and sometimes we have to get a little creative with scheduling, but my clients and I have always managed to make it work! Depending on the days and times you need, I have availability some days, evenings and weekends. Q: Are you licensed and insured? A: Yes, and am happy to provide proof, should you request it. Q: Do you have references? A: Absolutely! You may also find reviews on Yelp and the Windham Patch. I am also recommended by several local veterinary hospitals. |