About
The personalized “Family Life Training Program” includes obedience, polite manners and basic social living skills for dogs and is one of my most popular services!
Behavior adjustment training is also offered for those times when your perfect pooch is a little less than perfect.
During and after training, my clients frequently tell me how pleased they are to have received so much more than the basic dog training they expected.
The background and experience I’ve acquired being in the dog world for over 30 years enable me to provide your dog with services that encompass the 'whole dog'. I understand dogs, the way they think, and the natural instincts they possess. By working “with” a dog using a personalized training program, rather than providing a one-size-fits-all training program, you’ll see the true nature and personality of your dog shine through – and your dog will love to learn!
I’m also fully certified as a Canine Fitness Trainer, FitPaws Master Trainer, and Canine Massage Therapist!
Working with dogs, and the people who love them, is my passion and one of the most satisfying things in life for me. Helping to make that canine/human bond stronger is the ultimate reward. I LOVE what I do!
I love seeing that moment of understanding in a dog's eye when training a new cue or trick! I also love hearing from my clients when they tell me how much they have learned about dogs, particularily their own dog, from our time together.
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Dave L.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Potential clients can fill out the consultation on my website: https://caninerevival.com/consultation/. Then, we'll set up a free phone call to answer any questions either of us may have. It's also a great opportunity for me to begin designing a personalized plan based on your needs and what you want for your dog. We can talk about which service(s) interests you and you'll have a chance to decide if this is a good fit for you - all without spending a penny!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am certified in Canine Fitness Training (CCFT), Canine Sports Massage Therapy (CSMT), and am a FitPaws Master Trainer (FP-MT). I am an AKC approved trainer and evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen program (CGC), AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy program and their various other training programs. I am also a certified trainer for the Train a Dog, Save a Warrior (TADSAW) program, helping veterans train their dog as a PTSD service dog. I am very active in canine training and behavior continuing education via webinars, live seminars, online classes, and independent study. Professional obedience training and behavior adjustment have always been a big part of my life and, while I still teach formal obedience, I’ve designed a plan that is, by far, my most requested service. It’s called the Family-Life Training Program and it encompasses general obedience, proper house manners and basic dog social and living skills which are all tailor-made for your dog’s unique personality. We will enhance the good things your dog already does and we’ll address any issues that may be making life a little less than perfect. The Family-Life Training Program helps our dogs ‘fit in’ and become loved and valued members of our family. I have 10+ years of experience as a veterinary x-ray and treatment technician and a vet surgical assistant, was a group trainer at the Animal Humane Society, and, for some real fun, I worked at a doggie day care and learned so much about group interactions among dogs! I also have quite a bit of experience with rescue dogs and was the rescue coordinator for Irish Wolfhounds in Minnesota and North Dakota. Love rescue work! All of this experience has helped me really understand dogs and working with them has always come very naturally to me. There’s nothing I’d rather be doing.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Once the consultation form is completed on my website: (CanineRevival.com/consultation) I like to set up a free phone consultation with you so I can get more information on your dog: what type of training you’re interested in, whether there are any behavioral issues you’d like addressed, and any questions you may have. Then, if you decide to, we can set up a lesson! After the first lesson, you decide if you want to pay by the lesson ($145) or purchase the package of 4 lessons ($540) - which gives you a $40 discount PLUS free call, text, and email for the life of your dog for any questions we can address by phone, PLUS, if you would ever like another session after the package of 4, it’s only $50!
How did you get started in this business?
I was born with a love of dogs (my very first word was “doggie”!) and as I grew, my love of dogs did too. At age 11 I began volunteering at the Humane Society, was hired at the age of 13, and was there almost every Saturday for the next 7 years. Next, I was lucky enough to land a dream job at a vet clinic/hospital where I gained so much knowledge and experience over the 10+ years I was there. I've always been active in obedience and I love designing "Family-Life Training" plans, which incorporate basic obedience training, social living skills and good manners. Every plan is specifically designed for your individual dog. My passion for dogs has always been a constant in my life. I feel I have a lot to offer in the way of dog understanding and experience and I want to share that with others and spend time helping families enjoy their dogs!
What types of customers have you worked with?
I’ve worked with the most fantastic people! All of them are what I consider great "dog people” - people who love their dog and want the very best for them. I’m still always happily amazed when I see the wonderful effect dogs have in our life and the love they so freely give us.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
One of my past Family Life Training clients contacted me and asked about training their dog, Cooper, to a treadmill. Cooper is super high-energy and they live in an apartment with treadmill availability. We worked with Cooper at my dog gym 3 times to get him very comfortable on my 7 foot long dog treadmill. Once he knew the ins and out of treading, I stopped by their home to transition him to a human treadmill. I got on the treadmill to get familiar with the controls and as I started walking, Cooper jumped up behind me and started walking too! He was that comfortable with it and he did great once he was on it alone too! I then showed his Mom and Dad how to get Cooper on the treadmill and to safely give him his workout. Exercise helps so much to curb unwanted behavior and he's doing great!
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Look for a person who knows dogs and is willing to listen and respond to information you give about your dog. Just as all people are not alike, dogs are individuals too! Many have their own routines and likes and dislikes and that should be respected and taken into consideration when working with your dog.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
What are the most important things I want my dog to learn? Are there any undesirable issues I want to address with training? Am I willing to work with my dog for very short sessions (3-5 minutes) a few times a day? The answers to these types of questions will really help you and your trainer see the results you want and will help your dog succeed!