K-949, led by founder Shannon Thier, focuses on fostering a balanced and harmonious relationship between individuals and their canine companions, employing positive, progressive, fear/intimidation-free, and science-based reinforcement. The organization is dedicated to utilizing force-free, reward-based, LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) methods.
Specializing in working with fearful, anxious, stressed dogs, K-949 offers services such as trick training, clicker training, puppy preparedness, and basic obedience to modify problematic behaviors for both puppies and adult dogs. The organization also educates owners on proper handling and care for fear-free vet visits and provides free information about body language and canine communication to the public.
K-949 offers private lessons in-home throughout Randolph and surrounding counties, North Carolina, as well as virtually online for individuals worldwide seeking assistance with their dogs. The digital dog training approach is effective for addressing fear, aggression, and anxiety, including separation-related disorders like alone-time anxiety and isolation distress.
K-949 previously offered group classes for Manners and Karen Pryor Academy Puppy Start Right, with plans to offer these again soon. Shannon Thier actively pursues educational seminars, workshops, and webinars, and stays updated on the most modern, progressive training methods through various channels, including books, studies, websites, and DVDs. She also networks with a range of trainers and behaviorists to remain informed and effective in her practice.
Shannon Thier holds a B.A. in Graphics and a B.S. in Communications from the University of Miami. Her credentials include being a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) #2133358, an Animal Behavior College/Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT), an Animal Behavior College Mentor Trainer, a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), a Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI), a Karen Pryor Academy Puppy Start Right Instructor, a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), a Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) #79827, a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) #7502508, a member of the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) #M005118, an AKC CGC & S.T.A.R. Puppy Evaluator, and the co-facilitator of Southern California Dog Trainer’s Forum (SCDTF) in 2015 and
