Why do you recommend or require an initial consultation for new clients?
There are many reasons why a consultation is an important first step. First, it is a time for us to meet and for me to meet and assess your dog and your situation. We will spend time getting to know each other, ask questions and discuss your expectations and goals for training. Many times, your biggest complains with your dog may be a symptom of something else that you may not realize. The consultation is meant to break down and lay out the best options for you and your dog before diving into hands-on lessons, as well as provide me with the information I need to create a written training and enrichment outline (included with a consultation) that we will follow for any future scheduled lessons, or for you can follow at home on your own. We will also get a head start on practicing some fundamental training exercises together. Sometimes a consultation is all a client needs to solve any immediate concerns.
Do you work with (fearful, shy, reactive, high energy, low-drive, special needs, etc) dogs? Will you work with (insert breed here)?
Yes! Dogs of all types of personalities, breeds and impairments are welcome. We will work together to find the best way to motivate, teach and understand your dog regardless of these things. However, please note that with extreme cases of aggression where medical intervention may be necessary, I will refer clients to a veterinary behaviorist or qualified trainer specializing in extreme behavior cases.
What if my dog is untrainable?
Although there are some rare and extreme exceptions, no dog is 'untrainable'. Sometimes, all an owner needs is some fresh ideas and professional instruction to restore faith that you and your dog can succeed!
What kinds pets do you provide care for?
I have experience owning and working with all pets including cats, exotics like reptiles, birds and fish, and livestock like chickens, goats and horses. I also have experience administering medications and working with pets with special needs. Scheduling a free meet & greet is always recommended.
Will you come meet my pets before you provide pet services?
Yes! While not required, meet & greets are free of charge and highly recommended.
How do I know if my pet will be accepted for boarding or daycare services?
My boarding and daycare roster is very limited to allow myself to have availability for current clients and to ensure I can provide the best care to my boarding and daycare dogs. Typically, I only consider current training and pet care clients or referrals from current clients as new boarding clients, but exceptions may be made for certain situations. Further, I do require a screening process for dogs I am less familiar with to be sure they will be a good fit, including temperament testing and behavior and stress levels. Please feel free to reach out if you are interested so we can discuss details.
How do I pay? When is payment due?
With each service, an invoice will be sent to your email with a transparent rate breakdown and payment instructions. For new training clients, a 50% deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your spot in my calendar. The remainder is due upon completion of the service. For repeat training clients, full payment is due upon completion of service (or first lesson, if purchasing a package). Expected payment timeline for pet care services will be discussed prior to your first booking, since situations vary. If you are unsure when you are expected to complete a payment or if you have questions, please contact me!
Why do you require a deposit or prepayment for training consultations or private lessons?
No one likes being ghosted! For new training clients, a 50% deposit is required to reserve your time slot in my calendar. This is so I can eliminate the risk of withdraw and be sure of our mutual commitment to my services. Your deposit in it's entirety will be used towards your final rate, which will be due upon completion of the service.
What if your policy if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Life happens! If you need to cancel or reschedule a training or pet care service, please notify me as soon as possible. While there is no fee for rescheduling, if I have already arrived to your location for a scheduled pet care service, you will be charged for that visit. If I have began traveling to your location OR if the scheduled service was a training service, you will be charged a fee for travel time and distance.
Do you offer payment plans for training packages?
Yes. Hiring a dog trainer, like hiring any qualified professional for a service, is an investment and I know the cost can be daunting for many. Training is a necessity for happy homes and good animal care, and I do not want to keep that from anyone regardless of financial situation. I offer payment plans for those who need private training, but are concerned about upfront payments. Please contact me if you'd like to discuss payment plans for training services. Click here to be redirected to my payment plan interest form.
How do you determine your pick up/drop-off add on service rate?
Pick-ups or drop-offs within a 10 mile radius of my location in Nicholasville is a flat fee of $15. pick-up/drop-off services within a 10-20 mile radius is a $20 fee.
Can you provide last minute services?
Most of the time, I can accommodate last minute service requests! Call or text my contact number to check availability.