Back to city
Certified dog trainer
Rise Vanfleet
Rise Vanfleet

The International Institute for Animal-Assisted Play Therapy™ focuses on providing animal-assisted play therapy for children, alongside training mental health and canine professionals in AAPT.

The services also include dog behavior consults specifically tailored for traumatized, fearful, and puppy mill dogs.

The President of this institute is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and holds various certifications, including being a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania (License: PS-004870-L), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (#0011 at www.a4pt.org), and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC; IAABC).

The training philosophy at the institute is committed to humane, positive, dog-friendly, and people-friendly methods, avoiding the use of coercive or aversive equipment.

The preferred training equipment includes the Perfect-Fit harness, flat buckle collars, and leashes, with a long-term goal of eliminating reliance on equipment.

The focus is on ensuring that dogs enjoy the learning process.

Services are primarily available in Cumberland, Dauphin, Adams, and Perry counties, with the possibility of extending services to other locations or providing referrals.

Distance consults are also offered for traumatized, fearful, or unsocialized dogs.

The institute offers positive training and behavior consultation for most breeds of dogs on a part-time basis.

Services are provided to individual families in their homes, with a welcoming approach to children.

Special discounted training and consultation are available for dogs recently adopted from shelters/rescues or those with special needs, such as deaf dogs.

Additionally, training is provided for handlers of play therapy dogs, focusing on a positive and enjoyable learning experience for both the dogs and their handlers.

Availability for services is limited and is by appointment only.

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. 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 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.

Want to train your dog independently?

Dogo logo

Dogo offers comprehensive and personalized dog training programs, designed by certified trainers, to address specific behavior issues or teach new skills to dogs of all ages and breeds.

Get Dogo App
Start Training
Best dog training app