FAQs
What are your dog training methods?
I pride myself on training patiently, consistently, emphatically and ethically, using reward-based methods and setting the dog up for success.
How long does it normally take to see improvement in dog training and behaviour?
Each dog is an individual and each session is tailored to each dog’s specific needs – some issues take longer to rectify than others and each dog learns at its own pace. These factors, along with the owner’s commitment, all influence the dog’s progress.
In my experience, I have found that it is best not to put a time frame on training as this can sometimes cause us to rush. After all, we should enjoy the journey – training should be a fun and ongoing process!
Will I get support after my session?
Of course! Support is available in the form of follow up appointments, hand-outs, advice, information, links and telephone/email conversations. If you have had a behavioural consultation, you will also get an in-depth report to refer to when continuing the process at home.
Why do I need a veterinary referral for a dog behaviour consultation?
Behavioural problems can sometimes be caused by physical/medical issues – a vet is able to rule out/address these issues to ensure that the dog is healthy before beginning a behavioural approach.
Why do I need to complete a questionnaire before a dog behaviour consultation?
Having as much information about your dog before the session takes place is crucial to ensure that an effective plan can be prepared and relevant arrangements can be made.
What do I need to bring/have available for sessions?
It is important to wear appropriate clothing for the specific session. On top of this, please ensure that you have:
- a variety of treats (higher value and different from normal food – e.g. chicken, beef, cheese, etc.)
- a harness/comfortable fitting collar (no choke chains or aversive collars will be accepted)
- a lead (preferably not a flexi-lead)
- other equipment may be advised based on your particular dog
Who needs to attend the sessions?
All members of the household in which your dog lives need to be prepared to be involved in your dog’s process for maximum success, therefore the most effective way of ensuring this would be to include them in the training regime. This does not necessarily mean that they all need to attend sessions, as long as you feel that you can successfully reiterate the important points. However, if particular members are more heavily involved in your dog’s life (e.g. it’s training/walking, etc.) it would be advisable for them to attend some sessions.
As well as this, if you have a dog walker/sitter it is important that they are aware of your dog’s issues in order for them to help when they can. I am happy to talk to them to ensure that they are informed as to what they can do to support your dog.
Can my child be involved?
As it mentions above, it is important for all members to be involved in your dog’s progress. However, all interactions that your child has with your dog must be supervised and appropriate treatment of your dog must be encouraged.
What if I have more than one dog?
If you have more than one dog that requires behaviour/training sessions then these problems must be addressed individually for treatment to be effective.
If it is only one dog that requires behaviour/training sessions then it is strongly advised that all other animals are kept out of the training situation wherever possible so as not to distract or impede your dog’s progress.
Where do the sessions take place?
Depending on your dog’s specific situation, sessions can take place at your house, at a particular problem area or at my small holding in Kent.
What if my dog is aggressive?
If you feel as though your dog is aggressive, please call me to discuss the prospect of an appointment as extra measures may need to be taken.
What if I need to cancel/rearrange my appointment?
It is fine to cancel or rearrange appointments, but please bear in mind the amount of preparation that go in sessions and try to give me at least 24 hours notice wherever possible.
What relevant qualifications do you have?
I have an AdvDip. in Canine Behaviour Management, a Dip. in Life Coaching and I am currently undertaking a GradDip. in Animal Behaviour Management. I am also a full member of both the Pet Professional Guild BI and the International Canine Behaviourists and can be found on the RCDTBP.
What areas do you cover?
- Dover
- Ashford
- Canterbury
- Deal
- Sandwich
- Ramsgate
- Margate
- Broadstairs
- Hythe
- Folkestone
- Eythone
- Lydden
- Coldred
- Lyminge
- Stelling Minnis
- Ash
- Aylesham
- Hawkinge
- Whitfield
- And surrounding areas
Services are also available in
- Sevenoaks
- Maidstone
- Tonbridge
- Tunbridge Wells
- Westerham
- Biggin Hill
- And surrounding areas
Travel costs may apply at a rate of 50p/mile
If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.