Sage Advice Pet Services offers Canine Behavior Consulting, Manners, Obedience, Games, CGC & Therapy / Service Dog training utilizing positive, reward-based training & behavior modification, humane education.
Certifications:
- Training Equipment: Control by equipment (flat buckle or martingale collars, EZ Walk harnesses, leashes, long lines) is not a long-term goal for clients but provides a safety net while building the bond / partnership.
Training Philosophy:
The goal for clients is to assist in building balanced and lasting partnerships with their dogs utilizing the power of positive, reward-based methods, creating a bond founded on trust & cooperation.
Locations Served:
Williamsburg, James City County, York County, and surrounding areas.
Bonding with dogs means building a relationship based on trust and cooperation rather than relying on physical force or corrective equipment. Bonding is the rapport or partnership developed with dogs that leads them to choose to walk with us (as opposed to dragging us behind), happily pay attention to us (rather than be distracted by anything and everything else), and willingly come when called (because given the choice, they would prefer to be with us).
Building this partnership – especially in the initial stages – requires a firm commitment of time, attention, and a consistent management program to prevent (or, in some cases, extinguish) unwanted/inappropriate behaviors.
Over the past 30 years, the dog trainer has been involved with rescue and behavior rehabilitation of a variety of dogs including herding, sighthound, and terrier breeds. This, along with teaching classes and working with clients in resolving their dogs’ behavioral issues, has given a deeper understanding of working with different breeds – many of whom are genetically hardwired for behaviors that are not always compatible with being ideal companions or ‘easy keepers’ for the average pet owner.
Partnership building also requires clear communication and a good reward system for acceptable & appropriate behaviors – one that is determined by the dog. It might be food, toys, petting, belly rubs, etc – or any combination as long as the dog finds them highly rewarding.
Dogs need to be challenged – both mentally & physically – on a regular basis to stay happy, healthy, and out of trouble. Dogs repeat behaviors (right or wrong) that they perceive to be rewarding to them (sometimes in ways not easy to comprehend). In the end, building a wonderful relationship with dogs requires patience, persistence, & planning and the desire to reward
