K9 Fitness Lab

Serves Boca Raton, FL

35244

Hired 111 times

1 employee

9 years in business

$95

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.

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Credentials

Background Check

Rosie Feeley
Completed on 1/9/2021

Introduction

Dog training is more than working on your pet's behavior. It's just as much about you - the owner. I will make sure you understand what your role is since you will be the real trainer! I always make it positive and fun. I am bilingual (Spanish and English). What makes my service different? I am a Certified Canine Fitness Trainer and FitPAWS Master Trainer. Many of the clients I work with have pets that can benefit from better conditioning and general fitness. Whether it's a dog that needs to shed a few pounds to take longer walks, an athlete competing in agility or other sports, a senior dog with arthritis that needs mobility, or simply a healthier pet; in addition to basic dog obedience, K9 Fitness Lab provides conditioning and fitness training. I teach simple exercises (some with equipment) to create more focus and balance for your dog. What's more is that this type of work also exercises their minds! The result is a tired (read relaxed) pet! You don't need the dog to walk miles to get the benefits of a good, sound exercise plan. A fit dog will live a longer, more comfortable life. I work with dogs of all ages, and I especially enjoy seeing our senior dogs become more mobile! I especially enjoy puppy training. I teach basic manners and help socialize your puppy so that you have a well behaved new friend you can take anywhere. You won't worry about having an out of control dog when friends and family come to visit. They will be impressed on how well YOU trained your pup! Most of the clients I work with are looking for their dogs to have good manners and be obedient. It's never too early or too late to achieve that with your canine companion. I enjoy seeing the transformation in the dogs when the clients do their homework and realize it is within their power to have a well-behaved dog (It's not my magic touch :)). Another great enjoyment comes from designing an exercise program for my clients' dogs. Fitness is not just for humans! A fit and conditioned dog is happier, healthier, and will live longer. And it doesn't take hours at the gym! We have simple programs and inexpensive equipment that when used 4 times a week for 15 minutes will create dramatic changes.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

My dog training pricing is customized to your needs. Puppy packages range from $400 -$500 based on your goals and what the pup already knows. For particular issues with dogs of any age, my standard rate is $85/hour with a 10% discount for 5 or more sessions.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I will meet with a new customer and their pet to evaluate their needs. What does your dog do? What would like them to do? This evaluation is free and phone consultations are encouraged. Then we will come up with a customized training plan. No two pets are the same. We will work together for as long or as short a time as needed to give us the desired result. For pet sitting, I will meet and greet, get all of the basic information, and come up with a schedule that suits the customer.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I have taught basic obedience and basic agility in group settings for my dog club (Tailwaggers Learning Center) for the past ten years. I have also worked with private clients on conditioning and training. Years ago I worked as a veterinary assistant and I have a Bachelors Degree in Animal Sciences. I obtained my credential of Certified Canine Fitness Trainer through the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. I am also certified through Pet Tech in pet first aid and care.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

From the time I was in college to now, I have always had a passion for animals. My undergraduate degree is in animal science with a pre-vet tract. Circumstances led me to a different career path (corporate training), but recently I made the decision to go back to what I love. Doing competitive sports with my dogs has taught me the importance of having a well-conditioned dog. My older dog stopped competing and I saw him slow down. Through a simple fitness and conditioning program, I saw a marked improvement in his mobility and energy level. At that point I realized that this is an important service we can provide for our companion animals.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have worked with customers that have baby puppies and senior dogs. I also worked with dogs being rehabilitated from hip and knee surgeries. All of my customers have one thing in common - they want a happy, balanced, fit, focused, and well behaved pet!

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

Boomer is a Wirehaire Pointing Griffon that underwent a serious knee surgery. He needed basic training so the rehab vet would be able to help him through his rehab exercises. When I met Boomer he growled, nipped at me, and was mistrusting. Within 2 weeks I was able to not only train him for basic behaviors, but he has become my best buddy. 6 weeks later, Boomer was doing great and is well on his way to being able to take long walks and run with his owner.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

I highly encourage a phone conversation and a meet and greet prior to hiring a dog trainer or pet sitter. Anyone can impress you with a website or social media page, but speaking with the trainer/sitter will really make a difference. You want a good fit for both you and your canine companion. Look for pros that utilize positive training methods and don't jump right to averse training such as shock collars.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

For dog training - How often will I need the service? What am I willing to spend to get a great result? Am I willing to put the time and effort into practicing what the trainer recommends? What type of training methods doe the professional use?