About
I am and have always been a dog lover. I grew up with dogs & for only a short time in my life did I not have one. I started my business after I went to dog training school and became certified as a dog trainer. You could say my business has "Gone to the Dogs". I work with all breeds and have helped many rescue dogs, I volunteer with a rescue and love helping wherever I can.
I love seeing the excitement in the dog owners eyes when they see the progress thier dog has made and knowing that the negative actions of the dog can be fixed. I love watching the dogs become confident and excited to learn.
Highlights
Specialties
Private or board lessons
Package interested in
Issues
Reviews
Eduardo V.
Micah W.
Elizabeth F.
Diane L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to have an assessment visit with new clients to ensure I pick the best mode of training for the owner and the dog. Once we are in agreement we generally setup a 6 week training course. This course will cover leadership and basic obedience. If there are specific issues to be addressed we work on them also.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a certificate from ABC Animal Behavior College and have worked with dogs most of my life. I volunteer with rescues and work at a dog daycare part time. All of this allows me to learn as much as I can about dog interaction and communication.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I generally charge $700 for a 6 week basic obedience training course. If I train more than one dog at a time I give a 10% discount for each additional dog. I also do dog boarding and charge $49 per day. If there is an extended stay over 2 weeks I offer a 10% discount.
How did you get started in this business?
After raising my children and working in an office for over 20 years I really wanted to do something I was passionate about. Dogs have always been part of my life & I truely love them. This drove me to enroll in school and move forward with my business
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with many different customers. I have worked with super shy dogs, leash and fence reactive dogs, rescue dogs, puppies even dogs that just need some potty training. I have even worked with a couple of homeless clients. I like to be flexible with my clients to help them with their dog even if the finances make it hard to have a trainer. I do not like to limit people/dogs, just because of income. I believe everyone that wants/needs a trainer should be able to have one.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I was working with a dog that is very shy and has a hard time going for walks as she kind of shuts down due to fear. I have watched her learn to rely on her owner to be her courage when it gets to be to much. It is so fun to watch a dog come out of it's shell and to see the joy in the owner when progress is made.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Be sure they are certified. Anyone can say they are a dog trainer, there is no criteria. After going to school I found out how much I didn't know. Ask for an assessment before signing a contract. You want to make sure you and your dog are comfortable with the trainer. If you are not comfortable then your dog won't be either.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
What kind of training do they offer? There are many ways to train a dog. The biggest issue is how will the dog learn. The training has to match the dog. I do not believe there is only one way to train. Just like humans, dogs all learn differently.
Is the trainer flexible with the training technique? Will the trainer come to you or do they only do group classes?