Benevolent Sun Dog Training
About
I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with over 5000 hands-on hours training dogs in basic obedience, socialization, puppy specifics, AKC's Canine Good Citizen, Therapy preparation, fear aggression and reactivity, enrichment/cognitive games, tricks, and much more! I use force-free, non aversive, positive reinforcement PROVEN techniques to strengthen and solidify your relationship with your dog. In over twenty years of training, I have learned that the most important component of a "good dog" is the bond between dog and human. I specialize in multiple dog interactions, and frequently use my own dogs to address issues such as fear reactivity, undersocialization, and confidence building. My professional references include:
AKC-CGC Certified Evaluator/Instructor Professional Member, Pet Professional Guild Professional Member, Association of Professional Dog Trainers Supporting Member, International Association of Animal Behavioral Consultants 2.5 years, Director of Day Training, Dynamite Dog Training 2+ years, Pet Trainer, Corporate Pet Store
I am truly committed to the dogs I work with. I get such a sense of fulfillment when I see dogs and their humans work together to build a great relationship and understand each others' needs. Dogs have always been my destiny and true calling, and I am always learning from them and excited to be a part of their lives!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to spend 10-15 minutes on an initial phone consultation, to make sure I am a "good fit" for the client, where I go over my training methods and philosophy. I want to prioritize the training goals and behavioral issues, and will often send articles and/or videos for the client to review before setting up the initial session. I have a standard intake questionnaire to pinpoint individual focus goals when I go for the initial consult, which usually takes 90 minutes so I can get to know the dog at home. Training begins that day, then sessions are an hour long.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I began by sitting and walking dogs over twenty years ago. In 2015, I decided to leave my job in Inventory Management, and I went to work for two corporate pet stores in a row as a trainer to learn the dog training business from the ground up. In early 2018, I was hired by the area’s largest 2 facility dog training company, and worked my way up there to become the Director of Day Training, where I gave private lessons, taught group classes, and ran day training sessions. For more than two years, I worked with an average of thirty different dogs per week. I started my own business just recently during the Covid-19 outbreak.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I have a standard session rate, but I hope people understand that I can't "cure" their dog in one session. I offer discounts for purchasing 3 or more sessions, and for combo packages with online Zoom sessions and/or day training (without the owner). There is an additional cost if I use my other trainer; for example, with dog-dog reactivity and we need a calm dog or when testing for the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification.
How did you get started in this business?
Walking and sitting for neighborhood dogs when I was a teenager got me started. I trained "on the side" for years while working in the corporate world. In 2015, I decided to "go for it" professionally and full time. I'm so glad I made that decision because I truly love what I do!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Have clear, realistic goals going in to the training process. The trainer is your coach, just like in athletics, and realize that ultimately the success of your dog's training plan is contingent upon your commitment. Trust your gut when talking to the trainer whether they really know their profession and are worth hiring. Your dog is a family member, and you want the best coach for your situation.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Can the trainer analyze and give specific advice for your particular issues, that make sense to you? Do you agree with their training methods? Do they have more than one idea just in case the first method doesn't work? Do they emphasize communication and the relationship with your dog in their answers?