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Sometimes a pet and their person (or people) may need a little extra help for class exercises or for issues that may surface or develop. This does not mean that a trainer has failed, nor the pet is not 'good'. It simply happens, as we all know, life is a constant state of change. If a training problem has developed, a private lesson is usually recommended. A simple training problem may usually be handled with a short visit and follow up training practice sessions. If issues of a more serious nature are happening, a behavior consultation offers a more indepth approach. A drive profile is done to help ensure progress along with a longer term handling program depending on each situation. Follow up visits may or may not be recommended depending on the issue(s) and if a pet is currently in a class.
In past years, the behavior part of my busines became overwhelming and rather than go through another burn out, I must recognize my limits. Thus, unless I am approached with an extreme case, private lessons are only available for clients with pets that are or have been in my program. Those that have experienced training with me through the Puppy and Obedience & Manners - Level One and Two classes are the people that truly give their pet a great foundation for life in the real world. Monitoring a pet as it develops to ensure proper handling and manners happen takes time and dedication. Trainers learn much about their pets and how to read and respond to situations that the future may present.
Trainers choosing to only do the Puppy class or those that do not continue past Obedience & Manners - Level One simply do not give their pets a good foundation. I recognize that some may have missed the opportunity to do the Puppy class for various reasons (the pet was too old when acquired or a trainer was unaware that Puppy class was available). Starting the pet in the O&M classes without the Puppy class may still give much if completed and the trainer follows instruction. Giving a pet too much responsibility without a good foundation is not recommended as a pet can be presented with situations it simply does not know how to handle!
Believing in the basics that Obedience and Manners Levels One and Two (without a break) give to both the trainer and the pet, I strongly urge trainers to complete this part of the program before considering their dog trained and ready to accept challenges that it may encounter. O&M Two helps pets to deal with distractions and choices that the real world may present to them. In addition to the pet facing challenges, the trainer learns how to recognize signals that their pet may be displaying when stressed and teaches the trainer how to approach situations that may be encountered to help the pet learn to accept and be comfortable in various settings. As everything melds, this learning certainly helps with encounters outside of class. If I did not believe in the program, I would not have devoted decades to teaching it!
Trainers that have acquired an older pet either by choice or by chance are sometimes given more of a challenge if the pet had experiences that have developed into problems. Much patience is required, as learning the pet's responses may take time. Learning how to interact with a newer pet may also present some challenges, again - patience is required. All pets (like people!) may have their own quirks as well - we all do the best we can. Enhancing our understanding and applying same can help an issue from getting worse and certainly is worth the effort!
As trainers that have worked with me know, the handling in my program is rather unique. For that reason, I do not endorse pet sitters that utilize different methods. Nor do I like the environments that day care and dog parks present. Everything melds - including manners with other pets, animals and people. Pets may not have defined lines when it comes to interacting with other animals and little people and for this reason I feel strongly that interactions should be monitored and always with manners. Keeping drives and a pets confidence and self esteem monitored may help to ensure a comfortable pet that does not develop issues and become insecure, territorial or jealous.
Attention here is to find the cause of the problem(s) and to offer insight. Many issues - if recognized early and with proper attention - can improve. Using drugs and 'mood modifiers' are a last resort - which I do not recommend. You would be advised to seek medical attention for your pet if I am not able to help you.
Some issues that cannot be covered in a group class that should receive attention when first signs occur and before a dog bites are:
Concerns when eating such as wolfing down food, freezing and growling when at the food dish,
Guarding or snatching of treats or toys - with serious threats,
Challenging behaviors,
Defensive actions which cause people to be fearful,
Fears and anxious behaviors,
Growling when handled,
Seriously pushing others (pets or people) away from a person to get attention, especially if growling or stiffening actions are heard or observed or
Fearful of, hiding or shaking when visitors or people approach.
I do not refer trainers out to 'behaviorists' that follow what I consider dysfunctional training and/or handling approaches. At this time, I do not know of anyone personally that I trust. (This page will be updated when I can delete this past sentence). For this reason if after reading this page, if you choose not to work with me, or if I feel I cannot help you, please contact your veterinarian or someone you trust for a referral. Note - If I feel I cannot help you and your pet - I will be honest and tell you as soon as it is obvious to me.
What I believe in is approaching situations with common sense and the knowledge that some behaviors can be helped with planned training and constant supervision.
Remember that I endorse an "everything melds" approach and what you allow your pet to experience is what they are learning. Handling and experiences that they have when you are not with them do contribute to the whole picture.
In my very early years, I would refer to the 'professionals' in the field when I felt that I could not help a person and their pet. Finding that many in the field have different approaches to pets, I have had my heart broken many times when being told of some experiences trainers had: euthansia recommendations when I did not agree, pets being 'tested' for their obedience training responses with food to evaluate behaviors (?!), others waiting alone without their owner (one for hours) crated in a strange place until the 'behaviorist' was available to do an evaluation.
Some experts in the field are afraid of pets and more than one person has told me of a certain someone that literally sits on his desk, with his legs folded out of reach of the pet and charges hundreds of dollars for the visit - each with an euthansia recommendation at the end of the session. All of these situations have happened to people hoping to help their pet. Sad!
Note, many in the health realm of the pet world do choose to work with mood modifiers that may or may not work. In addition, health risks may occur with these products, so please read all of the fine print and in addition, do research on possible side effects. And develop a great (not ok or good) relationship with your veterinarian! If your pet is seen on a regular basis, your vet has a better chance of helping you if you have issues.
I have several trainers that have almost 'miracle' stories (see the testimonials and unsolicited thank you's at the bottom of the News/Referrals page). There are many pets that may have had a short life without a common sense approach. Links follow if you want to check me out in more detail:
News, Referrals & Testimonials Link
If you are still with me, and desire more information, scroll past the information below and look for the above title to read more at the bottom of this page.
Bring to your lesson if at the training center:
Your RDT LLC folder.
A list with your training goals and concerns. Include your training experience(s) - with past and current pets.
Your pet's current health record if your pets record on file here is no longer current.
Your training equipment - what you are using and what you may use in the future.
A list of books, videos, etc. you have consulted for training since you have been in class.
If not at home, water and a dish for your pet - leave in your vehicle to offer outdoors after our lesson.
A smile and a positive attitude!
Sorry - as always - no taping is allowed in any format.
Please note that due to age, I am no longer able to handle large, strong out of control dogs as in the past. While I am still fit for my age, I must listen to body. Nor do I do private lessons anymore. If we meet, in all consultations and/or lessons, I will evaluate the situation(s) or possible reasons for behavior based on information given and state how I may approach the problem if your pet were mine. Never put yourself at risk as you know your pet. Canines are animals and can be unpredictable - remember that. They are NOT FUR BABIES as some would love to believe. Thay have teeth and can use them. The trainer (owner/handler is the trainer) is the ultimate authority and accepts full responsibility for any consequences of his or her actions, per the waiver that all clients are required to sign.
Thanks for your understanding. If I may be able to help, inquire. Call the Bark Line: (517) 548-4536.
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