What type of Training is offered?

I offer positive reinforcement/force free clicker training that is scientifically proven to be the most effective method for training dogs (and other animals!) I offer solutions to common behavior issues, foundation training for pet dogs, some behavior modification, puppy training, and some sport foundation skills, either in a 1-1 coaching model, day training or in group classes.

What issues, behaviors, and training goals do You work with?

Puppy socialization, basic obedience, impulse control, housebreaking and crate training, basic manners, behavior modification, loose leash walking, recall work, boundaries, counter conditioning and desensitization, confidence building, behavior management, tricks, pre-agility skills, door greeting and increasing fluency. I will take reactive dog rehabilitation, resource guarding and separation anxiety on a case by case basis. I can help you with public access and get you started on task training for your service dogs as well. 

What issues, behaviors and training goals won't you work with?

I am not able to train dogs for any type of protection work or police work, and I am not willing to take on dogs with human aggression. 

How old should dogs be before starting a training plan?

Puppies can start training as soon as you bring them home, ideally around eighrt weeks! While it is important that you keep your puppy safe by not exposing him/her to diseases, it is also imperative that you socilize your puppy to as many people, places, surfaces and animals you can. You definitely need to take some precautions with your puppy, both phsyically and mentally, but they can start learning new things from day one. On the other side, you can also work your dog into old age as long as they are willing and able. Just like us, if they don't use their brains, they are more likely to develop doggie dementia (called Canine Cognitive dysfunction) and will have less mobility. 

why do i have to purchase a training package?

Training packages really are in your dog's best interest. With so many issues I get called about, there is just no way for me to teach you all I know about correcting the behavior in one hour long lesson. Dog training often times is about resetting both yours and your dog's mindset as well as developing muscle memory. As with any skill, the more times you practice accurately, the more it becomes second nature. This way, I can help you to shape new behaviors, to increase successes and teach the dog to hold the behavior as long as asked for. I do offer single hour training sessions for certain single issues. 

What equipment do i need to train my dog?

A lot of equipment needed depends on your training goals, but for just about anyone who wants to train their dog, I recommend a fitted flat buckle collar and a six foot leash, clickers, lots of high value treats, a treat pouch and a dog bed or crate mat. After getting that equipment, also consider a harness, as they are easier on your dog's neck, puzzle toys and interactive toys, a crate, and some baby gates or an exercise pen. If you find that you still need more than this, there are harnesses that lessen leash pulling (but should be used like training wheels, used in conjuction to training loose leash manners), coats and boots for dogs who will spend lots of time outdoors in winter, and sport specific gear if that is your end goal. 

can i combine pet sitting and training services?

Absolutely yes! For an additional fee (but less than if you were to book each service seperately) I can spend an hour each night training your dog while house-sitting. Imagine how nice it would be to come home from vacation to a dog who has picked up some good habits while you are gone. I can also combine training and walks for you while you are at work. 

What kind of support do I get when I work with you?

Whether we are working together in 1-1 coaching, day training or group classes, you are always more than welcome to email, message me on Facebook, call or text me. If you are looking for so much support that it is taking up more than 30 minutes a week, I may suggest adding on another session of training. I will follow up with you after we work together, and each client in each service will be given 1 complimentary refresher session or course per year. Even if it has been a long time since we worked together, send me your quick questions. 
*Policy may be subject to change, based on my availability.

how do i schedule an appointment?

Send me an email, call me or text me, message me from my Facebook page to first determine if we are good match for each other and to set up our initial consultation. From there, we can either set up recurring appointments in person or you can message or call me to set them up. 

what is your payment policy?

Payment is due at the time of the initial consultation. I can send you a PayPal link if you would like to pay before consultation. If you choose not to book with me after consultation, $30 fee is charged for my time. If you do choose to book, consultation is complimentary. I can invoice you each week for sessions in a package if you want that number of lessons but are unable to pay all up front. However, if you decide to cancel on me, payment is still due as agreed on, but will be credited toward future classes or sessions. 

what neighborhoods and communities do you serve?

I am currently serving all of Billings, Lockwood, Shepherd, Huntley, Worden, Ballentine, Laurel, Acton, and will consider Park City, Jolliet and Roberts for training. For overnight pet sitting, I am willing to travel up to 20 mile radius from home, and for drop-in visits and walking, it is on a case by case basis. I charge a standard $.53 per mile from my home. Ideally, I would like to schedule appointments in the same area back to back. 
*Policy is subject to change, especially if I find myself spending more time driving and less time training. 

What is your CANCELLATION policy?

I understand that stuff happens, but this is also why I require payment before or at the initial consultation and/or an agreement to invoice. If you have to cancel on me, at this time, there is no extra fee charge, but I also am unable to refund in most cases. If your dog is not a good fit for group classes, you may either work with me 1-1 (for cost of the class) or apply it towards a future class. If you would like to see situations where a refund is issued, please ask for the list. If you are to cancel sitting services the week that your overnight is to start, I will require payment for at least one night. If you return early from your vacation, refunds are issued on a case by case basis. 
​* Policy is subject to change if cancellations are impacting ability to reschedule with new clients.