Fredericksburg, VA
Paula Thomas
Paula Thomas has been with White Oak Animal Hospital since 1999. Before implementing the hospital's training program, she worked as a licensed veterinary technician. She has 30+ years of experience working with dogs and horses.
Training Philosophy
We understand that there are many methods of dog training. We do not believe in limiting ourselves to any one specific style. Since every dog's situation is unique, we must adapt our techniques, methods, and tools to each dog's individual needs.
Services
- Basic Manners Class: A group class that works on instilling manners with balanced training. These classes are offered on nights and weekends.
- Day Training:Personalized training that gives dogs a jump start to better manners at home or in public. TWO private sessions with a trainer are included. This service is offered Tuesday through Thursday for THREE consecutive weeks.
- Extended Day Training:Intensive personalized training for dogs that are having behavioral concerns or owners that would like to have a reliable well-mannered dog on and off lead. (*E-collar use recommended for off leash reliability and for some specific behavioral concerns.) FOUR private sessions with a trainer are included. This service is offered Tuesday through Thursday for SIX consecutive weeks.
- Dog Playtime:Daily supervised group play. This service is offered Monday through Friday.
- Play and Train: A refresher session with a trainer and participation in group play. This service is offered Monday through Friday.
- Walk and Train: A refresher session with a trainer and an extended walk to burn off extra energy. This service is offered Monday through Friday.
- Private Consultations: Discuss behavioral and training issues with a trainer. Your dog will be evaluated and appropriate training techniques are recommended. This service is by appointment only.
- Great Outdoors Class: A group class that works on instilling manners with balanced training focusing on coping with distractions and polite behavior in public. These classes are offered on weekends.
- Canine Good Citizenship Class: These classes are offered only to pets with prior obedience training. They are offered nights and weekends.
Certifications
- Certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT)
Training Methods
Balanced training
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.
