About
In addition to being a professional trainer for 20+yrs. I have extensive experience in veterinary medicine and other dog-related fields. There is much more to "training" than just obedience. I help turn the "family dog" into a wonderful "member of the family". Behavior modification, social grace, and good manners are extremely important and can only be accomplished with understanding and devotion. I always offer an in-home consultation to meet the pet and parent. This develops a comfort level for everyone. Because of my extensive experience, I am considered to be a Canine Behaviorist. Every method used is explained and practiced with pet parents to ensure success. No two dogs are alike and teaching methods must be appropriate for each individual dog and family.
I love knowing that I can make a difference between a dog staying in its home or being sent to a shelter. I can also help children learn to play safely with their dogs. I help to make a family dog become a member of the family.
Highlights
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Private or board lessons
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
A lot depends on what the pet parent is looking for as far as instruction and what issues the puppy or dog may have. I always start by listening carefully to why they decided to call a trainer and then explain how we can proceed, why I do what I do, the method used, why it works, etc. Then I will work with the dog and show the pet parent how to do exactly what I did. They will have a chance then to try working with their dog while I instruct them. When I leave, the pet parent has full understanding of what needs to be done so they can practice during the week.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
In addition to running her own dog training business, Jenna penned a pet advice column for a New York magazine, was asked to teach dog training at Long Island University, and has extensive experience in veterinary medicine, grooming, nutrition, rescue and commercial work. As a life-long animal lover, she has well established herself within the "dog community" as one who rescues dogs from homelessness, abuse, illness and abandonment. She developed a gold standard approach to training, philosophy and technique enriching the lives of dogs and their families, promoting a lifetime of commitment and love.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I offer packages priced to make training more affordable. I think it is more comfortable than charging per session, or by the hour. Lessons need to be limited in time to not much more than an hour unless time is given to the dog to rest while instructing pet parents.
If I need to work more with the pet parent or take time to answer questions, there is no pressure because of an hourly fee.
How did you get started in this business?
It was a natural fit for me. We understand each other. It's comfortable and trusting. It goes both ways.
I was raised with dogs and they were always part of the family. Dogs do not have a hidden agenda. It was easy for me to relate to them and know how to teach them appropriate and acceptable behavior.
What types of customers have you worked with?
Walking on lead without pulling is a major concern, yet it is the easiest to teach to a dog in relatively little time. Most trainers will suggest the use of equipment that restrains the dog to keep him from pulling but does not teach the dog anything. A well trained dog will walk next to his parent without the use of a restraint.
Jumping is another common complaint and easily stopped.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A woman in her early 80's was given a Mastiff mix breed dog as a gift but was unable to walk the dog. One week after working with them she called to tell me that she walked with her to the mail box for the first time. Within a few weeks they both enjoyed a walk into town.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Meet the trainer first before starting the lessons. Ask as many questions as you can about the methods and equipment used and ask for a demonstration. I always provide a consultation, evaluation and demonstration with complete explanations about everything I do.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Pet parents should make a list of everything their pet is doing that they think is inappropriate and add all the things they would like to have their dog trained to do.
A professional experienced trainer will provide information and answers to every issue a pet parent needs to address about what is considered unwanted behavior from their pet.