What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I have several pricing options available.
For $110, a one-hour single session. Perhaps you want to check us out, or maybe we've worked together before, and you just need a refresher to fine tune your training.
For $600, a six-week package. Perfect for puppies or adult dogs with little to no training. Pick a day and time and we'll spend an hour together every week for 6 weeks. We'll work on basic obedience cues and/or any behavioral issues you may be experiencing.
For $400, a four-week package. Designed for dogs who have already had some training and need just a little more. I'll assess your dog's knowledge and we'll decide together on what we should focus on during our hourly sessions over the course of 4 weeks.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We'll chat on the phone so I can get to know a little about you and your dog and tell you how our training works. We'll decide on a time and date that works best for you, and I will come to your house. I'll meet and assess your dog, and we'll begin training right away.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've always had a natural connection with dogs, as well as with people, and becoming a dog trainer has been the perfect fit. I became certified as a dog trainer with Petco in 2021. I enjoyed my time there and was able to gain the skills and experience to build this company. I am constantly researching, reading and broadening my knowledge.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
In 2019, we adopted Luna. She was 2 years old and had been in a couple of different shelters; she also washed out of K9s for Warriors. Luna knew some basic commands, and was fully house trained, but I don't think she had ever been on a leash in her life - and as she quickly grew to 90 lbs., it was clear that some training was desperately needed!
It took a little patience, a lot of love, and continued positive reinforcement. Luna became a confident, well-behaved dog, and we developed an amazing bond, built on trust and love.
Fast forward to 2021, and my search for a new career. After 30+ years as a professional magician/comedian, I was looking for something that I would love just as much - and I've found it!
What types of customers have you worked with?
All kinds of people and all kinds of dogs! I've worked with high school kids, with families, with retirees, from first-time dog owners to experience pet parents. I've trained all ages, sizes and breeds - you name it!
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
Daisy is a 3-year-old Great Dane. When I met her, she had just been rescued from an abusive situation. She had spent her entire life in a small crate, being used for breeding, and was scared of everything and everyone. For our first training session, she would not even approach me, and spent the hour pacing up and down. Her owner listened to me, and invested the time, energy and love in training Daisy. When we finished our 6-week session, Daisy had transformed into a happy, friendly dog, no longer scared of her own shadow, who loves everybody.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Hire me! Joking aside...ask lots of questions. What training techniques do you use? What type of training do you do? Boarding, in-home, group session? And tell the trainer about your dog - what do you want to work on, what is your dog's background, what challenges have you faced with your dog. Your trainer should be asking these questions too, before you meet.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Ask yourself what you want to accomplish with training for your dog. Also, be sure you are willing to put in the time and effort outside of our training sessions. I'm not just training your dog; I am training you to work with your dog. It's not a big commitment; a few short 5–10 minute sessions daily will reinforce good behavior.