Chesterfield, VA
Tala G. Castro
Tala developed her childhood passion for dog training with time, research, and practice. Her experience includes apprenticeships from mentors with over 50 years of experience in: obedience, scent work, service and therapy dogs. Tala received accreditation from a well-known, commercial dog training school. There she learned to develop training plans for a variety of clientele and gained valuable hands-on experience with dogs. Tala has worked with a variety breeds and ages. She continues her passion in her free time by volunteering at her local AKC Obedience Club, volunteering at a local non-profit ADI Service Dog Organization, as well as working with her own animals at home.
As a disabled, service dog handler, Tala understands first-hand the need for accessible, inclusive, and ethical dog training.
She hopes to use her skills to help both pet owners and aspiring service dog handlers alike.
Tala is currently apart of the Atlas trainer certification program, with an estimated completion date of August, 2024.
Training Philosophy
Helping Howls’ mission is to provide a bridge between people and their dogs. Our training philosophy highlights teamwork, communication and compassion, which we believe are the core ingredients to an effective human-canine relationship. We believe that trust is an integral part of successful training. It builds strong foundations so that dogs and people can succeed in whatever advanced training best suits their needs.
Helping Howls aims to meet both the dog’s and the handler’s needs. We value the special bond between an animal and their person, which is why we believe in relationship-based training.
We utilize a least intrusive, minimally aversive (LIMA) approach. Our methods are grounded in science, relationship-reward based, and effective. It not only makes learning enjoyable and exciting for dogs, but provides owners with lasting results.
Certified Fear Free professionals, like Lead Trainer Tala, are on a mission to reducing fear, anxiety, and stress (also known as FAS) in your pets when working with pet professionals.
At Helping Howls we are dedicated to providing individualized training goals, progression, & skills to reduce FAS not only during training, but throughout their daily life as well. Our trainers are committed to facilitating Fear Free practices & philosophies within all aspect of dog interactions.
We value inclusivity and accommodations. No matter your experience level or ability, Helping Howls can work with you to accomplish your training goals. We cater to a variety of disabilities and ensure that our clients are safe and supported throughout their training journey.
Services
Helping Howls offers a variety of services, including:
- Basic Training: Puppy, Beginner, Intermediate
- Board & Training: 2-Week, 4-Week, Monthly Packages
- Therapy Dogs Training: 21-week program in three phases
- Service Dogs: Fully Trained Service Dogs, Started Dogs, Owner-Trained Service Dogs
- AKC Fit Dog Club: Group walks, hikes, and Fit Dog courses
- Virtual Fit Dog Level One course
- AKC FETCH: Trials/Tests, Training, & Events
- Group & Individual Lessons & Bundles
- Virtual Private Sessions
- In-Person Private Sessions
- Day Boarding
- Service Dog ( In Person ) Private Sessions
- Service Dog Program ( In-person )
- Service Dog Program ( Board & Train )
- CGC(A,U) or Trick Dog Evaluation
- Temperament Testing & Puppy/Breeder Selection
- Other
Prices:
- Board & Training:
- 2-Week Package: $2,800
- 4-Week Package: $4,100
- Monthly Packages: Inquire for Pricing
- Therapy Dog Training Program: $700
- Owner-Trained Service Dog Program: $1,000/per 6 month program
- Board & Train (Service Dog): $1,000 ( per week )
- Virtual Sessions: $20 ( per hour)
- In-Person Sessions: $45 (per 1-hour session, Travel fees may apply)
- Day School: $80 ( per day )
- Group Hikes: $10 per person
- Runs: $5 per person
Certifications
Tala received accreditation from a well-known, commercial dog training school. She is currently apart of the Atlas trainer certification program, with an estimated completion date of August, 2024.
Specializations
Helping Howls specializes in:
- Basic Obedience Training
- Service Dog Training
- Therapy Dog Training
- Puppy Training
- Reactivity Training
- Scent Work
Training Methods
Helping Howls utilizes a least intrusive, minimally aversive (LIMA) approach. Our methods are grounded in science, relationship-reward based, and effective. It not only makes learning enjoyable and exciting for dogs, but provides owners with lasting results.
Certified Fear Free professionals, like Lead Trainer Tala, are on a mission to reducing fear, anxiety, and stress (also known as FAS) in your pets when working with pet professionals.
At Helping Howls we are dedicated to providing individualized training goals, progression, & skills to reduce FAS not only during training, but throughout their daily life as well. Our trainers are committed to facilitating Fear Free practices & philosophies within all aspect of dog interactions.
Customer Reviews
- Allie G. & Family with Nala: When we contacted Tala, Nala had horrible separation anxiety when we were not home and world tear up furniture, clothes, etc., would very frequently jump on us to get eye level, would not cooperate with a feeding schedule, would pull on her leash to the point that she has dragged me across the yard, the list goes on. Knowing we were trying to conceive, we felt it was best to enroll in Tala's board & train program. Although it was difficult being away from her, Tala was very reassuring that Nala was okay and progressing well with daily photos, text conversations, tic tok/instagram posts, emails, progress reports, etc. the entire time she was boarding.
From the moment Tala brought Nala home to us, we noticed a significant, positive change in Nala's behavior. In a short amount of time, she had learned and perfected at least 5-10 commands and was on a perfect feeding schedule that Tala had formed with her, based on our existing day to day life. Since, Tala comes to our home once a week for an hour to follow up. She has taught us, our kids, and Nala how to coexist peacefully to say the least.
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.
