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Certified dog trainer
Paul Christopher Buescher
Paul Christopher Buescher

Houston, TX

Give Us Paws is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Houston, Texas. They provide subsidized and free training of eligible candidates' dogs as service animals. They focus on veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and limited mobility. Services are also provided to civilians determined to be disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Training Philosophy
Give Us Paws is committed to evidence-based training methods and to training service dogs to a high level of reliability that their handlers can depend on. They train in the most efficient manner possible, making sure their trainers are skilled in using positive reinforcement to build the behaviors people with disabilities need and that make their service dogs safe and reliable in public.

Services
Give Us Paws offers a 12-month, intensive curriculum requiring logged hours of training; at least 1 hour per week with a trainer and reinforcement training practice by the handler between sessions. They offer free Service Dog training to qualifying, disabled US Veterans whenever possible depending on course availability and available funding. Veterans who have acquired their own funding or would like to pay for training receive a 25% discount on all training. They also offer training for family and pet dogs, too! They customize training to your dog's specific needs and your schedule with a variety of training options.

Specializations
Service Dog Training, Family and Pet Dog Training

Training Methods
Positive Reinforcement

Customer Reviews
The website features testimonials from veterans and civilians who have benefited from Give Us Paws' training program. Some examples include:

  • Thomas: "I firmly believe that the introduction of a service dog into my life would serve as a crucial intervention, mitigating the impact of triggers in public spaces."
  • Daisha: "Since he was already a senior when I got him I only had him a few short years before losing him to heart failure, but ever since, my dogs know my emotions before anyone else."
  • David L: "I am much calmer and do not feel as anxious as I do when I am not with him. I am not completely skilled in everything 'Service Dogs', but I would love the opportunity to go through the training, a big commitment, to learn about it and hopefully improve my life."
  • Rose: "I am so grateful for her! She is by my side always throughout the day as I really don't leave home often. She has not had any formal training, and I think that with guidance she could be a good service dog."
  • John G: "As a result of being a first responder and observing a lot of things that I cannot be unseen I suffer PTSD
    Major Depresion"
  • Jillian: "Meeting Paul and having the incredible opportunity to train Reese as a service dog through Give Us Paws has expanded Jillian's world and improved her quality of life while also being a great experience bonding with her best bud, Reese."
  • Natalie: "I am grateful to Paul and his staff for the opportunity to train with Monet and I and know she will bring much needed comfort and peace to situations whenever needed and then some!"
  • Adam and Rosie: "We are just beginning our journey, but we are grateful for the added safety & security the Give Us Paws program will be bringing to our family."
  • Daniel and Freya: "I hope that having a service dog will help me get out more and be more social and comfortable around people."
  • Tina and Cookie: "After experiencing the darkest time in my life, I felt it was even more important to have Cookie with me. I found the Give Us Paws organization and after learning more about the ways they can train Cookie to help me, it has given me HOPE."

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

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.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

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.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

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.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

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.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

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.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

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.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

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.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

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.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

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.

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