Ottumwa, IA
Melissa A. Childs
Melissa Childs is a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed) with 12 years of training experience. She has demonstrated a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of dog behavior and maintains 12 hours of continuing education per year.
Training Philosophy
Melissa Childs believes in using science-backed methods that are both effective and enjoyable, building a stronger human-canine connection and better manners without the use of pain and fear.
Services
Pawsibilities offers a variety of dog training services, including:
- Puppy Training: Core cues, self-control, good manners, and problem behavior prevention. Classes are held at the Indian Hills Airport Campus on Sunday afternoons.
- Bark & Growl: Private, in-home support to help dogs stop barking, growling, or snapping at other dogs and people.
- Service Dogs: Training for diabetic alert, seizure response, mobility assistance, and more. They can also help find a dog from a shelter or breeder that has the right characteristics for your needs.
- Therapy Dogs: Building strong public manners and sociability, and help navigating the assessment process to become a therapy team. AKC Canine Good Citizen Testing is available both individually and through their Good Manners II Class.
Certifications
CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed)
Specializations
Puppy training, problem behavior prevention, service dog training, therapy dog training
Training Methods
Melissa Childs uses science-backed methods that are both effective and enjoyable, building a stronger human-canine connection and better manners without the use of pain and fear.
Customer Reviews
“MELISSA IS EVERY BIT A PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER. WE WERE VERY SATISFIED WITH HER PROFESSIONALISM AND KNOWLEDGE OF DOGS. YOU CAN ASK ANY QUESTIONS AND GET THOROUGH ANSWERS. SHE’S PATIENT AND VERY HELPFUL WITH ANY CONCERNS YOU HAVE.”
- BARB C.
Is Bigger Team
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Social Media Links
Media Appearances
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.
Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.
Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.
Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.
Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.
All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.
Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.
Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.
