About
Female business owner with a passion for helping people learn how to communicate with their dogs using only current, proven scientific methods for pain/discomfort-free training. Certified by Animal Behavior College. Local dog walking with the same walker every time. Private lessons, treadmill training, virtual private lessons (the owner doesn’t have to be there), dog boarding with experienced dog lovers who treat your pet like family!
Jackpacktraining.com
There are so many things to love about what I do! One of my favorite moments is when I see the “light bulb” go off in the dog that they are starting to understand what they are learning. They start to offer the behavior automatically and the excitement from the owners in seeing their dog learn something new is awesome! It inspires the owner to continue to practice and work with their dogs, and I love nourishing that relationship. I love working with a variety of owners and breeds, they all have their unique stories!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to start out with a consultation (always free) to find out what the routine is at home with the dogs, what kind of concerns are you having, and what you've tried so far to help the problem. I like to find out what obstacles need to be overcome, what the family's schedule conflicts are, and what drives the dog to listen. Then, I customize a plan of action for the family so that we can get them communicating with their dog in a way that will accomplish their goals while also nourishing their bond.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been training dogs as long as I can remember. I've also been a trainer of people for over 18 years. Just to make sure I am always current on the most modern methods of training, I graduated from ABC Behavioral College with a diploma in dog training. My free time is usually depleted by doing more research on the latest trends in training.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Yes, I do. Please see my website Jackpacktraining.com for a complete list of my services, including my rates.
How did you get started in this business?
After spending a decade in medical administration, but feeling slowly suffocated by the corporate world, I decided to pursue my life's purpose of working with dogs. I enrolled in a well-respected dog training program to polish my skills and study the most modern methods of positive-reinforcement training. Last year I left the corporate world and started my training, walking, and boarding business.
What types of customers have you worked with?
All types! Many of my clients have hired me as walker or boarder first, and then realized their dogs behaved better with me, so they hired me as a trainer! I have many clients who have always wanted to hire a trainer but don't have the time to dedicate to a weekly appointment. Those clients have really enjoyed my virtual training option.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I train 2 boxer littermates twice a week. I've been working with them since they first came home at 8-weeks-old because they have busy pet parents who wanted puppies but needed them to be with someone the 2 days a week that neither of them could be home. They stayed with me in my home every Monday and Friday for 4 months, and we worked on all of those puppy basics while they were with me. When they were big enough to be home during the day, but still needed a lunchtime meal, their owners asked me to continue seeing them Mondays and Fridays in their home to continue their training. I'm so proud of their progress, they are truly wonderful dogs.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
I would say do your research. There's no regulations in place for dog trainers, just about anyone can claim they are a trainer. Find out their experience, and what their methods for training consist of. I would steer clear of trainers who use any training devices that are meant to cause discomfort or pain of any kind to elicit compliance from the dog. They are popular for "quick fixes", but in my opinion they don't take care of the underlying problem and don't nourish a trusting relationship between dog and owner.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
How much time can you realistically dedicate to training? Are you willing to make any changes to your schedule to accomodate the needs of your dog and the goals of training? Are you able to meet the exercise needs of your particular dog? Are you looking for a quick fix, or are you looking for a lasting resolution to your issue?