Sarah Harman
By utilising kind, scientifically proven methods I can make training enjoyable for both dog and owner. I train dogs in a way that they want to engage with me and their owner in a positive manner. The methods I use are highly effective with any dog behavioural issue from 'red zone' aggression to general obedience. The dogs in my training sessions are never forced to obey an 'alpha' through pinning to the floor or jabbing the dog in vulnerable parts of the body - true dog training is nothing like some TV trainers would have you believe.
Force-free does not mean 'no rules' or 'permissive' but instead means understanding a dogs needs and communicating in a harmonious confident way to build a relationship with trust.
Along with a small team, we work with dogs and live with dogs on a daily basis. In my previous job I'd often spend my days walking and controlling groups of dogs consisting of 15 or more dogs at a time with a small group of assistant handlers. Each dog had very specific individual needs and allot of work went into ensuring every dog had a fulfilling and safe walk. We do not use force to get the dogs to behave, they enjoy being a part of our group without fear and through our work have learnt to enjoy training. Dogs of any age and breed are welcome. Often, help sheets will be provided for clients to help them through their training journey.
We do not use: Prong collars, electric shock collars (e-collars) or other unnecessary tools or methods of training that involve force, fear or avoidance. Our trainers do not work under the 'alpha' myth. Our aim is to work with owners to meet their requirements as much as possible while maintaining a friendly and enjoyable training environment, free from judgement. We're always more than happy to work with owners that have until now used aversive training methods and equipment to attempt to control their dogs. At some point in all of our team's training lives/careers we have been exposed to the use of such equipment and methods but educated ourselves to know that they are not only unnecessary but detrimental.
Are some problems not able to be sorted through dog training?
In extreme cases, training alone may not be enough. Usually because of a dog's underlying health problem, extreme anxiety, PTSD or a neurological problem. In these cases, a long term management plan may be the best way forward or we can advise you on a veterinary behaviourist who may be able to offer additional support with medication. If owners do not put effort into their training sessions or at home, progress will be slow to non-existent. It is therefore important to keep up with regular sessions and in contact with the team.
Will we ever recommend euthanasia?
Sadly this is a common question we're asked by owners who have come to us from other trainers who have recommended euthanising their dog as the only solution. Our policy is not to advise euthanizing dogs as we believe this is a very personal and difficult decision to be made between a client, their family and their vet. Should an owner feel they cannot provide the dog with the training / care they need we can advise them of local rescues that may be able to help. We may sometimes recommend natural / gentle remedies such as Zylkène, Rescue Remedy (the non-alcohol version) or Adaptil. Occasionally, depending on the problem, we may advise neutering but most common behavioural issues are not helped with neutering alone and in some cases neutering can worsen behaviour.
Force-free does not mean 'no rules' or 'permissive' but instead means understanding a dogs needs and communicating in a harmonious confident way to build a relationship with trust.
Along with a small team, we work with dogs and live with dogs on a daily basis. In my previous job I'd often spend my days walking and controlling groups of dogs consisting of 15 or more dogs at a time with a small group of assistant handlers. Each dog had very specific individual needs and allot of work went into ensuring every dog had a fulfilling and safe walk. We do not use force to get the dogs to behave, they enjoy being a part of our group without fear and through our work have learnt to enjoy training. Dogs of any age and breed are welcome. Often, help sheets will be provided for clients to help them through their training journey.
We do not use: Prong collars, electric shock collars (e-collars) or other unnecessary tools or methods of training that involve force, fear or avoidance. Our trainers do not work under the 'alpha' myth. Our aim is to work with owners to meet their requirements as much as possible while maintaining a friendly and enjoyable training environment, free from judgement. We're always more than happy to work with owners that have until now used aversive training methods and equipment to attempt to control their dogs. At some point in all of our team's training lives/careers we have been exposed to the use of such equipment and methods but educated ourselves to know that they are not only unnecessary but detrimental.
Are some problems not able to be sorted through dog training?
In extreme cases, training alone may not be enough. Usually because of a dog's underlying health problem, extreme anxiety, PTSD or a neurological problem. In these cases, a long term management plan may be the best way forward or we can advise you on a veterinary behaviourist who may be able to offer additional support with medication. If owners do not put effort into their training sessions or at home, progress will be slow to non-existent. It is therefore important to keep up with regular sessions and in contact with the team.
Will we ever recommend euthanasia?
Sadly this is a common question we're asked by owners who have come to us from other trainers who have recommended euthanising their dog as the only solution. Our policy is not to advise euthanizing dogs as we believe this is a very personal and difficult decision to be made between a client, their family and their vet. Should an owner feel they cannot provide the dog with the training / care they need we can advise them of local rescues that may be able to help. We may sometimes recommend natural / gentle remedies such as Zylkène, Rescue Remedy (the non-alcohol version) or Adaptil. Occasionally, depending on the problem, we may advise neutering but most common behavioural issues are not helped with neutering alone and in some cases neutering can worsen behaviour.
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