Jennifer C.
Jennifer C.
Gladstone, MO
23 repeat clients
23 repeat clients
Training is a tool of enrichment!
I have 25 years of animal behavior training of various different breeds and species. My background in psychology has given me insight to study specific animal behavior and scaffold off of what they already know. I utilize positive reinforcement, hand signals, verbal and audio cues, scents, and unique on-the-spot aids to help your animal unlock their full potential. I have informally trained service animals, my own hunting companions, friends and neighbors pets, and some working farm animals by request. I'm learning the ropes of more refined training for agility courses and competitive showing.
What to expect
Consultation
I assess all levels of the home, environment, pets age, and emotional and cognitive/physical capabilities. The first meeting is a full discussion of the owners needs, goals, problem behaviors. Also, we review those in context to the breed - is what they're doing normal for their breed and how do we adapt that if it's a problem? Budgets are next. What is the budget for enrichment tools, training sessions, rewards, time commitments. Owners should have a ballpark idea of how much time and money they want to invest to get the behaviors and training established. We then set goals on a timeline.
Sessions
Training sessions will vary by client. If there is a problem behavior like mouthiness or taking treats snappily, the owner will need to be present for demonstration of techniques to achieve behavior modification. If basic session training for sit, come, stay - the owner does not need to be present and can simply reinforce the behavior after the initial training visits are over. If the dog has allergies or special diet needs, specifically approved treats may need to be provided by the owner for positive reinforcement. Leashes and other tools can be provided by owner or trainer as needed.
Reviews
Experience
My training philosophy relies heavily on observation, education & enrichment. I observe the owner, the environment, the pet & the goals at the first few consultations. I assess the owners reported training needs & any problems in order to help build a workable plan from the perspective of the pet's likely capabilities and previously learned behaviors. I also discuss behavior issues in terms of what the animal is trying to express. My priority is to start with small successes & build to more complex chain behaviors and fuller, more compassionate communication between owner & animal.
Training skill set
Services
Consultations
Sessions
Availability
I am available most often on the weekends, but week days by request can be scheduled in with a minimum of two weeks advanced notice.
Days available to train
What to expect
Consultation
I assess all levels of the home, environment, pets age, and emotional and cognitive/physical capabilities. The first meeting is a full discussion of the owners needs, goals, problem behaviors. Also, we review those in context to the breed - is what they're doing normal for their breed and how do we adapt that if it's a problem? Budgets are next. What is the budget for enrichment tools, training sessions, rewards, time commitments. Owners should have a ballpark idea of how much time and money they want to invest to get the behaviors and training established. We then set goals on a timeline.
Sessions
Training sessions will vary by client. If there is a problem behavior like mouthiness or taking treats snappily, the owner will need to be present for demonstration of techniques to achieve behavior modification. If basic session training for sit, come, stay - the owner does not need to be present and can simply reinforce the behavior after the initial training visits are over. If the dog has allergies or special diet needs, specifically approved treats may need to be provided by the owner for positive reinforcement. Leashes and other tools can be provided by owner or trainer as needed.
Reviews
Experience
My training philosophy relies heavily on observation, education & enrichment. I observe the owner, the environment, the pet & the goals at the first few consultations. I assess the owners reported training needs & any problems in order to help build a workable plan from the perspective of the pet's likely capabilities and previously learned behaviors. I also discuss behavior issues in terms of what the animal is trying to express. My priority is to start with small successes & build to more complex chain behaviors and fuller, more compassionate communication between owner & animal.
Training skill set
Jennifer C.
Jennifer C.
Gladstone, MO