Kristen K.
Colorado Springs, CO
Dogs love me
Pet care experience
Dogs have been a part of my life since day 1, and I have only spent the equivalent of about 5 years without a dog being around in my home. Caring, walking, and training are all second nature to me from 8 lb puppies to 120 lb labradors. I currently have two pups, a Mini American Shepherd (4 years old) and an Australian Shepherd (2 years old). I am comfortable with a multitude of personalities from domineering queens, to protective males, and ones that would rather enjoy the peace and quiet. I have worked with dogs that are well mannered around people, kids, and dogs as well as those that are reactive towards people and dogs. I am versed in teaching cooperative care (ie brushing, nail trims) as well as passive, shaping, and active training. I have done virtual as well as in person trainings for various people with various breeds. I have some senior care experience, however giving medicines through a shot is one that I have not yet done, but I am willing to learn. I am also aware and have experience with post-operation care from spays to broken bones and ACL tears. Canine body language is always about learning more about the dog and something that you are always learning no matter your skill, and this is one I have had a couple decades of observing and understanding and still find new meanings.
Reviews
Kristen has been around dogs her whole life and it shows. She understands them and shows great compassion and patience. Kristen has great experience with training and working with dogs of various breeds and sizes. She is comfortable using different tools and training techniques to fit the needs of the dog. She’ll sneak training in on walks and check ins with the dogs and makes it fun so the dogs don’t even realize it’s training! Kristen has taken care of my dogs and treated them like her own. I would trust Kristen with my dogs anytime.
Kristen is THE most knowledgeable person when it comes to dogs! She is familiar not only with pedigree, mannerisms, and tendencies, but immediately picks up on small cues. I would highly recommend Kristen for any canine-related situation!
About Kristen K.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
For checkins I would make sure to understand entering routines to ensure the pups stay safe and not have runners to the best of my abilities. For in house checkins, we will play and work on any training you might want, such as basic manners. Treats used can be your own or ones I bring dependent on the pups' diet and any allergens. The treats cane be either actual treats or using their breakfast/dinner as training treats for a working meal. For walks I will have a backup leash as clips can fail. Pavement temperature checks are second nature to see if they need some balm or booties for their walk. I will always make sure the comfort of the pup comes first. I am open to doing plain walks, sniffaris, and structured walks and continue with training plans that you have developed with other trainers to make the walks as smooth as possible with the methods and tools that are used. ** Due to health reasons I am unable to assist with dog care in homes that are smoked in or heavily perfumed **
Information Kristen K. would like to know about your pet
I will need to know of any behaviors that might cause issues or safety concerns. Are they an escape artist? Reactive? Aggressive? Selective about people or dogs? How do they react when they see an animal? Do they stop and stare or do they lunge?
A typical day
I love to take walks, play, and do fun training exercises for dogs. Exploring neighborhoods and trying different routes to keep it interesting and not monotonous. I will not drive them anywhere without permission, except to the Vet in an emergency.
Services
Kristen can watch in your home
Availability
I work part time virtually and as such have open hours to help take care of your pups to make everyone's days easier and more fun. Whether that is checking in on your new pup or making sure your friend of 7+ years is doing good, I am happy to help.
About Kristen K.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
For checkins I would make sure to understand entering routines to ensure the pups stay safe and not have runners to the best of my abilities. For in house checkins, we will play and work on any training you might want, such as basic manners. Treats used can be your own or ones I bring dependent on the pups' diet and any allergens. The treats cane be either actual treats or using their breakfast/dinner as training treats for a working meal. For walks I will have a backup leash as clips can fail. Pavement temperature checks are second nature to see if they need some balm or booties for their walk. I will always make sure the comfort of the pup comes first. I am open to doing plain walks, sniffaris, and structured walks and continue with training plans that you have developed with other trainers to make the walks as smooth as possible with the methods and tools that are used. ** Due to health reasons I am unable to assist with dog care in homes that are smoked in or heavily perfumed **
Information Kristen K. would like to know about your pet
I will need to know of any behaviors that might cause issues or safety concerns. Are they an escape artist? Reactive? Aggressive? Selective about people or dogs? How do they react when they see an animal? Do they stop and stare or do they lunge?
A typical day
I love to take walks, play, and do fun training exercises for dogs. Exploring neighborhoods and trying different routes to keep it interesting and not monotonous. I will not drive them anywhere without permission, except to the Vet in an emergency.
Location
Colorado Springs, CO
Pets
Kristen K.
Colorado Springs, CO