Mike D.
Bristol, CT
Certified Dog Trainer
Pet care experience
I've worked with dogs for the past 5 years. First as a groomers assistant, then a daycare attendant, and now I work for Bees Dog Services. I worked for them as a 'dog handler' (walker) for a year before earning my Pro Dog Trainer - Core Skills Certificate from Catch Canine Trainers Academy and now I work for them as a trainer. I have a few other training certificates and I also attended a vet tech program in college for a year so I have some general medical knowledge. I go by LIMA (least intrusive minimally aversive) whenever working with animals. I make sure the pups are happy and enjoying their walk while maintaining good behaviors and not allowing the bad ones! I'm more than comfortable handling possible off leash dogs that we might encounter too!
Reviews
Mike was very thorough and helpful with training tips for my excitable lab pup! He made me feel totally comfortable and went out of his way to help me with some last minute schedule changes. I will be booking again!
Mike is a gentle giant! He has so much patience, even for my untrained ball-of-energy pupper! He really takes the time to get to know each dog he cares for and what they need. And his dog Tucker is such a sweetheart!! We love them both so much!
Mike is extremely trustworthy and great with my pers! He loves animals and has a lot of experience too! My dogs follow him everywhere and they really love his treats!
Mike is dedicated to the cause, and uses his extensive training to make a safe and structured environment for you and your furry family member.
About Mike D.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Whatever you need/want done at home I'm sure we can work out. I go by LIMA (least invasive minimally aversive) whenever working with animals which means I'll never force your pups to do anything they're not comfortable with! I'll leave them happy and safe at the end of every visit
Information Mike D. would like to know about your pet
I always go over any fears the dog might have or any types of aggression I should be aware of. If your dog is dog aggressive I would play it safe and stick to roads or trails where I knew I wouldn't run into off leash dogs or would have plenty of space to work with them. If you have a senior or dog with any medical issues we would discuss any additional needs they might have. It's also always nice to know what your pups favorite treats are! (And allergies)
A typical day
I talk to each client individually to see what toys or games your dog likes. We can play fetch, tug of war, or even play with a flirt pole which is a fun easy way to drain some of your dogs energy. I can take them on hikes or to different parks, it all depends on what you want and what your pup loves!
Services
Mike can watch in your home
Availability
I'm working part time as a trainer until my schedule fills up more so I need to supplement some hours. My schedule does change alot so the hours I have listed aren't a guarantee but I'll do my best to accommodate whatever you need!
About Mike D.
Communication
Skills
Safety, trust & environment
Whatever you need/want done at home I'm sure we can work out. I go by LIMA (least invasive minimally aversive) whenever working with animals which means I'll never force your pups to do anything they're not comfortable with! I'll leave them happy and safe at the end of every visit
Information Mike D. would like to know about your pet
I always go over any fears the dog might have or any types of aggression I should be aware of. If your dog is dog aggressive I would play it safe and stick to roads or trails where I knew I wouldn't run into off leash dogs or would have plenty of space to work with them. If you have a senior or dog with any medical issues we would discuss any additional needs they might have. It's also always nice to know what your pups favorite treats are! (And allergies)
A typical day
I talk to each client individually to see what toys or games your dog likes. We can play fetch, tug of war, or even play with a flirt pole which is a fun easy way to drain some of your dogs energy. I can take them on hikes or to different parks, it all depends on what you want and what your pup loves!
Location
Bristol, CT
Pets
Mike D.
Bristol, CT