Silver Lining Pet Services

For dog training, I charge $125 for the initial session. The cost of each session after the fist session depends on the number of sessions agreed upon and the distance that I have to travel to get to the client They range from $80-$125. The more sessions agreed upon, the less I charge per session. My business is mainly based in central Contra Costa County, and since traveling outside of that area often means that I spend more time traveling to and from the job than I do actually on the job, I charge more than I do for people in my immediate area. I am happy to give discounts, for dog training, to senior citizens and disabled persons. For pet sitting, I charge $60 per overnights, $25 per day for one 1/2 hour visit per day, $20 for each additional 1/2-hour visit in the same 24-hour period, $40 for one 1-hour visit per day, and $35 for each additional 1-hour visit in the same 24-hour period. I give a 10% discount for 10 or more days of contracted services. Those days do not need to be consecutive. I also give discounts for repeat business.

For dog training, I start with a 2-3 hour consultation / evaluation,, which includes asking questions, evaluating the dog, coming up with a plan, discussing the plan with the client, and giving initial instructions to the client. For pet sitting, I provide a free visit to learn about what the client needs. At this visit, a contract for services is filled out, which is then e-mailed to the client.

In 1991, I acquired a dog who became aggressive towards everything. I loved him dearly, and wanted to help him. I found CW Meisterfeld (now deceased), a man who had been using positive reinforcement techniques to help dogs with behavior problems since the 1940's. He helped me to turn my dog around. Then, I wanted to help others with their dogs. I love working through behavior issues with dogs, esp aggression. After I started doing training and behavior consulting professionally, I decided to add pet sitting services, as well. The two services go together really well.

We offer day training services where we train your dog at your home while you go about your business, and meet with you weekly to help you maintain the training. If you prefer to train your dog yourself, our behaviorist will coach you at your home to teach your dog to be the obedient dog that you want. We provide all kinds of pet sitting services in your home. A professional will visit your home once or more times a day; or spend the night at your house, if you prefer. Not only will we care for your pets while there, but we will also care for your plants, collect your mail and newspapers, put out the garbage, etc.

Look for someone who is interested in serving your needs; not someone who provides the exact same services to every customer. You want someone who will listen to your concerns, and address them.