Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to get started? Fill out a Client Intake Questionnaire here!
How do I get started?
Step one is to fill out a client intake questionnaire.
After reviewing your information, I can answer questions and get you on the schedule for a session.
After you've filled out a form, I'm happy to schedule a complimentary 5-10 minute phone call to see if we're a good fit for each other.
I'm looking forward to connecting!
What is your training philosophy?
How do I know this will work for my dog?
I strongly believe in using the most modern, humane methods for training dogs. Force-free, positive reinforcement training has proven to be effective for training numerous animal species and dogs are no exception. I do not condone the use of fear, pain, or coercion, which includes the use of aversive equipment or correction-based methods.
You can find more information about me, my experience, and my training methods (along with the research!) here.
Why don't you have a guarantee?
In the dog training industry, it is professionally unethical to guarantee training results due to the variable nature of animal behavior and the number of factors affecting it. You will be provided with the tools and support needed to succeed, but it’s ultimately up to you to put in the time to train and work with your dog. Prognosis is dependent on the implementation of the treatment plan and your dog's response to treatment. Expect to commit to training sessions with your dog one to two times per day for a few minutes at a time. You can do this!
Are you offering in-person sessions?
I am currently offering sessions at or near your home (for residents of Boulder, Gunbarrel, Louisville, Lafayette, Broomfield, Westminster, Superior, and Erie). Virtual sessions are available for clients in any location.
These sessions are being offered Mondays through Thursdays during daytime business hours. Evening slots are currently full.
What happens during an initial consultation?
An initial consultation is essential in allowing me to gather relevant background information on your dog, your goals, and for us to work together on formulating a realistic training plan. I will also help you create and implement a management plan to give you and your dog immediate relief. Please expect quite a bit of talking! The majority of hands-on training occurs during subsequent sessions. *My general recommendation is that most initial sessions be done virtually.
How should I prepare for sessions?
Initial sessions
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Please expect quite a bit of talking.
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Taking notes is encouraged during our session!
Follow-up sessions
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Exercise your dog prior to our appointment.
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Have some of your dog's favorites treats on hand.
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Make sure your pup is hungry.
If you have a dog who is worried about unfamiliar people, please mention this on your intake form so we can formulate a plan and set your dog up for success when I arrive at your home.
How many sessions will I need?
A single session is generally not enough to achieve optimal results, as training and behavior modification takes time. Think of it like going to the gym: exercising once won’t yield long-term results. It takes time, repetition, and perseverance to achieve behavior change and maintain it!
The number of sessions and amount of time to improve your dog's behavior is difficult to predict and depends on the complexity of the issue and the amount of time you can spend between sessions to work with your dog on your own.
Most clients have their first few sessions spaced out every two weeks. As their training gets going and they feel confident in what they're doing, we then meet every three to four weeks. For fear, aggression, and reactivity, sessions are generally recommended with greater frequency.
More specific training estimates can be given during an initial session.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel an appointment?
There are no refunds for paid services if cancellations occur less than 48 hours in advance of our scheduled appointment. If you are not feeling well or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, you may reschedule at any time without penalty.
You may reschedule a session 48 hours or more in advance to avoid being charged for the session for any reason unrelated to COVID-19. You will be charged the full session fee for cancellations within 48 hours of the session.
Do you offer group classes?
Yes! I offer invite-only, advanced outdoor classes for dogs who have had private sessions with me for reactivity. I have found that starting with private sessions before practicing in groups results in a larger improvement in reactive behavior.
If you're looking for regularly offered group classes, I suggest checking in with my friends over at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley's Training and Behavior Center, Gigi Moss Dog Training, and Rocky Mountain Dog Training.
What if I can't afford training?
If my normal pricing is out of reach, I encourage you to apply for Sliding Scale Training Sessions here. Please note that this application must be filled out in conjunction with a New Client Questionnaire.
Please note that availability is limited and depends on the honesty of the community. The price you receive is applicable for three sessions (one initial session and two follow-up sessions), after which I'll ask for a new application.
If you need assistance in the interim, the Denver Dumb Friends League offers a free telephone hotline for basic behavior help. You might also consider my online leash reactivity course, which is offered at a lower price point then private training.