FAQs
1. What is your training methodology?
We use positive reinforcement based in behavior science and learning theory. American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior Position Statement on Dog Training
2. How will you work with me and my dog?
We will set up a management plan for everyday life and a training plan where we work specifically on building a good emotional state in the dog along with needed skills that help the dog be successful. These plans are based on motivation-building (reward), meeting the dog where they are and building from there, clearly communicating, and providing choice, consistency, and repetition in the exercises to teach a new experience and response in the dog.
3. What type of behaviors do you work with?
Working with behavior challenges is our specialty. We will work with any behavior and often get referrals from veterinarians and rescues.
4. I am used to traditional training and don’t know anything else, would you accept me as a client?
We would be thrilled to have you. A matter of fact we have been around in the dog training and behavior world long enough that we ourselves were taught initially using traditional methods. We would love to work with you and show you a different and more effective way.
5. How many sessions do I need?
This is difficult to answer ahead of time, especially having never met with you or your dog. There are a lot of variables to consider. Changing behavior is more involved than teaching obedience cues. Your dedication and regular practice would be key and to keep us updated so we can give you helpful assistance in our coaching sessions. When you contact us, we will ask you to fill out some information about your goals and the behaviors you want to address and we can work with you to determine how many sessions we would recommend. Our starting package is three sessions.
6. Can I use the sessions with multiple dogs in my home?
Absolutely, the packages are based on time working together so how you use that time is up to you. And we encourage using your new knowledge and skills with all dogs in your household.
7. Do you guarantee your training?
We give no guarantee on your training results. It depends on your skill level, how much you practice, the environment your dog lives in, what motivates your dog, how much is genetic versus past experiences. What we can promise you is that you will see results and we will be there to fully support you in that work. In between sessions, we remain available to support you via text, email, and phone as needed so that we can coach you as you begin to implement our management and behavior plans in your home.
8. What areas do you serve?
We have no limitations for our virtual services. If you would like us to come to your home, we charge a travel fee beyond a 35 miles radius from our location (Alexandria, VA).
9. What are your fees?
Fees for our behavior consultation packages can be found here. If you are outside of our driving limit (35 miles) we may also need to add an additional charge of $50 per visit
10. What is your experience?
Both Jackie and Vivian have worked with dogs and behavior cases for a long time. Rescues are dear to our hearts. We both live with dogs from rescue/ shelter. We work with local rescue groups in the area. To see our bios go here.
11. How will I be supported between sessions?
After each session you will get a write-up. Between sessions you are free to reach out as much as you need to ask questions, you feel stuck etc. We can talk via text, email, phone or facetime.
12. Do you offer board and train?
We do not, but we would be happy to try to find a positive reinforcement-based board and train program if you have a difficult time finding one.
13. Do you do obedience training?
We do not offer obedience training. We do teach obedience cues that are relevant in working on a dog’s behavior challenge.
14. What is your rescheduling policy?
We ask that clients provide 24-hours notice for a cancellation in order to reschedule. Sessions not canceled 24 hours in advance will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
15. Do consultation packages expire?
Consultation packages expire after one year. Any unused sessions will be donated to one of our rescue partners.
16. What is your refund policy?
Once you have paid and filled out the paperwork and is scheduled on our work calendar there are no refunds except for very special circumstances we will consider on a case-by-case basis. We do allow clients to regift any of the sessions not used for the benefit of a rescue of your choice (or any other person of your choice). If you have no specific rescue in mind, we will offer that session to one of our rescue partners.